Discover the world of green tea on a half-day tour to Uji, celebrated for its renowned tea production. Experience the internationally acclaimed tea known for its high quality and exceptional flavour. Enjoy sampling a variety of green tea-infused foods and beverages, showcasing the versatility of this essential element of Japanese culture.
The local guide will meet guests at the JR rail station in Uji, a charming city just 30 minutes from Kyoto by train. Explore the town's history with a stroll and sample various matcha-flavoured snacks and drinks, including pastries, beer, and gyoza. Visit local tea shops to learn about leaf tea and powdered tea differences in taste and brewing methods. Enjoy a lunch of tea-seasoned ramen noodles before a hands-on matcha-making and tasting session. Guests grind their own matcha and learn to whisk the perfect bowl of green tea, with an opportunity to purchase tea to take home.
Cross the Uji River to visit the historic Ujigami Shrine in a quiet forest, featuring the oldest Shinto hall in Japan, demonstrating the connection between nature and Shintoism. Conclude the tour with dessert at Uji's oldest teahouse, sampling matcha rice dumplings or roasted tea affogatto ice cream.