Welcome to Uji – Japan’s green tea paradise! Just 30 minutes south of Kyoto, this compact city packs a powerful punch for tea lovers and history buffs alike. Traditional tea tours here get straight to the point, showing you exactly how matcha is made and letting you try your hand at whisking the perfect cup.
The best tours combine tea tasting with visits to stunning UNESCO sites like Byodoin Temple and Ujigami Shrine. I’m especially fond of the morning tea factory tours – you’ll catch workers preparing fresh batches and learn tea-picking techniques passed down through generations.
For a richly rewarding afternoon, choose tours that include both the historic tea district and a traditional tea ceremony. The local guides really know their stuff, and most tours can be adjusted to fit your schedule.
Check out these fantastic Uji tours that showcase the best of Japan’s tea culture:
Key Points
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The Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour offers an immersive experience exploring Uji, the premium Japanese green tea capital, including a matcha tasting and visiting Byodoin Temple.
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The Private Day Tour in Kyoto & Uji provides a personalized 10-hour experience showcasing the region’s shrines, with optional stops at Nishiki Market and Gion District.
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The Uji Walking Tour With Matcha Experience provides a guided intimate exploration of Uji’s history and tea culture, including a matcha preparation demonstration.
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The Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train in Arashiyama offers a scenic 30-minute train ride along the Hozu River, as well as visits to Tenryū-ji Temple and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
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The Green Tea Tour With Byodoin and Koshoji Temple Visits focuses on Uji’s high-quality green tea and production, with visits to historical teahouses and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour
The Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the world of premium Japanese green tea. Hosted in Uji, a region renowned for its exceptional green tea, the tour takes travelers on a journey of discovery.
They’ll explore hidden local tea shops, learn about the production of matcha, and indulge in a matcha tasting experience. The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Throughout the experience, you will have the opportunity to prepare and savor matcha, as well as enjoy a delicious set lunch. With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides a personalized and intimate experience.
While not recommended for vegans or those with gluten intolerances, the tour is family-friendly and caters to a moderate fitness level. With a 95% recommendation rate from previous travelers, the Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to enjoy the rich tea culture of Japan.
Read our full review: Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour Review
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Private Day Tour in Kyoto & Uji: Delightful Shrine & Matcha
Enjoy a captivating private day tour that showcases the enchanting shrines and renowned tea culture of Kyoto and Uji. This 10-hour excursion takes you on a journey through the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha and the impressive Sanjusangendo, before exploring the historic city of Uji, known as Japan’s Tea Capital.
In Uji, you’ll discover the serene Ujigami Shrine, dedicated to the Tea Saint, and the UNESCO-listed Byodoin Temple. Indulge in the finest matcha delights as you learn about the region’s rich tea heritage.
The tour also offers flexibility, with optional stops at Nishiki Market and Gion District, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.
Enjoy the convenience of private transportation, complete with Wi-Fi and multilingual translation support. The tour’s cancellation policy allows for free changes up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a hassle-free booking experience.
Elevate your Kyoto and Uji exploration with this delightful private day tour.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour in Kyoto & Uji: Delightful Shrine & Matcha Review
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Uji Walking Tour With Matcha Experience
On this Uji Walking Tour with Matcha Experience, travelers can expect to explore the historic city known as Japan’s Tea Capital. The tour includes a walking tour, a matcha experience, lunch, and entrance to the renowned Byodoin Temple.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, this intimate excursion allows participants to enjoy Uji’s rich culture and traditions.
The tour starts at 11:00 am at Uji Station, where a guide holding a Japanese umbrella will meet the group. During the walking tour, travelers will discover Uji’s landmarks and learn about its significance as a center of tea production.
The highlight of the experience is the matcha demonstration, where you will learn how to properly prepare and enjoy this traditional Japanese green tea.
After the matcha experience, the group will enjoy a lunch before visiting the Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its iconic Phoenix Hall.
The tour concludes back at the Uji Station meeting point.
Read our full review: Uji Walking Tour With Matcha Experience Review
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Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train in Arashiyama Bus Tour
Although less well-known than Uji’s tea experiences, the Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train in Arashiyama offers travelers a delightful journey through the region’s stunning natural scenery.
The 30-minute train ride takes passengers along the Hozu River, surrounded by lush bamboo forests and picturesque mountain vistas. This small-group bus tour combines the train experience with a visit to Arashiyama, a charming district known for its historic temples and shrines.
Highlights include Tenryū-ji Temple, one of Kyoto’s five grand Zen temples, and the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene walkway through towering bamboo stalks.
With a duration of 3 hours and priced at $173.31, this tour provides an immersive glimpse into Kyoto’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Rated 4.9 stars, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a unique and memorable experience beyond the traditional tea ceremonies.
Read our full review: Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train in Arashiyama Bus Tour Review
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The Uji Hills : Walking Tour Over the Scenic Hills of Uji.
For those seeking an alternative to Uji’s renowned tea experiences, the Uji Hills Walking Tour offers a delightful opportunity to explore the region’s scenic natural landscapes.
This 3-hour guided excursion takes visitors on a journey through the picturesque hills surrounding Uji, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its matcha production. Participants will start at the Uji Keihan Station and embark on a hike over Daikichiyama, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Byodo-in temple.
The trail then follows the Uji River, leading to the hidden Hakusan Shrine nestled in the Shirakawa Momiji Valley. While the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to Byodo-in, adventurous participants can choose to detour and visit the temple at their own expense.
With an emphasis on nature, history, and cultural significance, this walking tour provides an immersive experience off the beaten path, priced at £41.63 per person.
Read our full review: The Uji Hills : Walking Tour Over the Scenic Hills of Uji. Review
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Green Tea Tour With Byodoin and Koshoji Temple Visits
This comprehensive Green Tea Tour in Uji provides an immersive exploration of the region’s rich tea culture and historical landmarks.
Priced at £74.59 per person, the 4-hour guided tour offers an opportunity to taste high-quality local green tea and learn about its production.
Visitors will explore the history of tea culture influenced by samurai and religion, including a visit to the oldest teahouse operating since 1160 AD.
The tour also includes entrance fees to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Byodoin and Koshoji Temples, allowing guests to experience the breathtaking views along the Uji River and gain insights into Heian Period architecture.
With a focus on a unique tea tasting experience, the tour provides an immersive understanding of brewing techniques and flavor profiling.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 66 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences, making it a must-do activity for those seeking a deeper connection with Uji’s tea heritage.
Read our full review: Green Tea Tour With Byodoin and Koshoji Temple Visits Review
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Uji Matcha Experience | One Day Tour Charter Service
The Uji Matcha Experience | One Day Tour Charter Service provides visitors with a comprehensive immersion into the captivating world of premium Japanese green tea. The tour lasts 10 hours and departs from Osaka, taking guests to Nara, Uji, and a hot spring. Priced at $52.73 per person, the tour has a solid 3.6 rating from 5 reviews.
Highlights include exploring the historic Uji region, known for its superior matcha production, and participating in a hands-on matcha grinding experience. Visitors will also have the opportunity to visit the Todaiji Temple in Nara, one of Japan’s most significant temples. The tour wraps up with a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring.
While the tour may not have the highest ratings compared to some Kyoto offerings, it provides an excellent value for those seeking an immersive day trip from Osaka to discover the wonders of Uji’s celebrated tea culture.
Read our full review: Uji Matcha Experience | One Day Tour Charter Service Review
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The Sum Up
Visitors to Uji have a wealth of excellent tour options to choose from. Whether one’s interest lies in matcha green tea, scenic hills, or historic temples, there’s a tour to suit every preference. With knowledgeable guides and immersive experiences, these tours provide a great way to explore the enchanting town of Uji and its rich cultural heritage.