Guided Bike Tour to a Green Tea Farm in Shizuoka (Not E-Bikes)

Nestled in the lush, rolling hills of Shizuoka, Japan, lies a hidden gem that beckons to those seeking an authentic exploration of the country’s renowned tea culture. A guided bike tour provides the perfect opportunity to take in this picturesque landscape, pedaling through verdant tea plantations and gaining insights into the intricate process of crafting the perfect cup of green tea. With knowledgeable English or French-speaking guides leading the way, participants can expect a truly sustainable and enriching experience, one that promises to deepen their appreciation for this cherished Japanese tradition.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Guided Tours In Shizuoka.

Key Points

• This guided bicycle tour in Shizuoka, Japan, offers an immersive experience exploring a local green tea farm using regular, non-electric bicycles.
• Knowledgeable English or French-speaking guides provide insights into the tea-making process and lead participants through the region’s lush, rolling landscapes.
• The tour includes a visit to a tea farm, where participants can interact with the farmer and taste a variety of green tea cultivars.
• A locally-sourced, traditional Japanese lunch is provided at the tea farm, allowing participants to further appreciate the local food culture and its connection to green tea.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is near public transportation options, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Tour Overview

The guided bike tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a green tea farm in the picturesque region of Shizuoka, Japan, utilizing regular bicycles rather than e-bikes.

This tour provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to journey through the lush, rolling landscapes and witness the cultivation of the renowned Japanese green tea.

Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides, fluent in English or French, will share their insights and guide the group, ensuring a well-rounded and informative experience.

The tour’s focus on sustainable and eco-friendly transportation adds to the authenticity of the experience, allowing visitors to connect with the local environment and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich tea-growing heritage.

Tour Details

Bicycles and helmets are provided for participants to use during the tour, and bottled water is included to keep them hydrated.

The highlight of the tour is the visit to a local tea farm, where travelers will have the opportunity to interact with the farmer and taste an array of green tea varieties. The English or French-speaking guide will provide insights into the tea-making process and the cultural significance of this beloved beverage.

Lunch is also included, allowing participants to savor local cuisine and further enjoy the region’s gastronomic traditions.

With these thoughtful inclusions, the tour offers a well-rounded experience that caters to the interests and needs of the adventurous travelers.

Meeting and Pickup

Participants meet at the Shizuoka Station’s north exit, in front of the Police Box, to begin their guided bike tour to the green tea farm.

The meeting point is conveniently located and easy to find.

This tour isn’t available for cruise ship passengers calling at Shimizu Port, as the tour starts from a different location.

The meeting point is at the Shizuoka Station’s north exit, in front of the Police Box.

Participants will meet the English or French-speaking guide at this location.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation options.

Tour Logistics

This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate. Confirmation of the booking is provided at the time of reservation. While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is conveniently located near public transportation options. However, the tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart or other medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Tour Logistics
Private Tour	Only your group	Personalized
Confirmation	At time of booking	Guaranteed
Accessibility	Near public transit	Not wheelchair

The tour is designed to provide a tailored and exclusive experience for participants. The logistics ensure a seamless and comfortable journey, catering to the needs of active and able-bodied travelers.

Cancellation Policy

A full refund is provided if the tour is canceled at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time. However, no refunds are issued for cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start. Plus, any changes requested less than 24 hours before the tour won’t be accepted.

The cancellation policy is designed to ensure the tour operator can manage bookings effectively and minimise last-minute disruptions.

The tour may be canceled due to poor weather conditions, in which case you will be offered the option of a different tour date or a full refund.

Travelers are advised to carefully consider their plans and fitness level before booking, as no refunds are available for no-shows or last-minute cancellations.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions.

Bicycle and Helmet Provision

The tour provides participants with both a bicycle and helmet for the duration of the guided bike ride through Shizuoka’s tea country.

The bicycles are regular, non-electric models, allowing riders to fully experience the scenery and terrain.

The helmets are modern, safety-certified, and sized appropriately for each guest.

This equipment is included in the tour price, ensuring a comfortable and secure cycling experience.

The guides will ensure a proper bike fit and provide any necessary instructions on operating the bicycles.

With the provided gear, participants can focus on enjoying the picturesque ride to the green tea farm, where they’ll have the opportunity to learn about and taste the local teas.

Tea Farm Visit and Tasting

Upon arrival at the green tea farm, the tour guide escorts visitors to the farmer’s house, where they’ve the opportunity to sample several varieties of the locally-grown tea.

Participants can expect to taste the nuanced flavors and aromas of different green tea cultivars, gaining insights into the production and processing methods that contribute to the unique characteristics of Shizuoka’s renowned tea.

The tasting experience allows guests to:

• Discover the subtle differences between sencha, gyokuro, and matcha tea leaves
• Learn about the effects of factors like shade-growing, harvesting, and steaming on tea quality
• Appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into traditional Japanese tea production

This intimate interaction with the tea farmer provides a deeper understanding and newfound appreciation for the region’s prized green tea.

Lunch Included

Following the tea tasting at the farmer’s house, the tour participants sit down to a delicious locally-sourced lunch.

The meal features an assortment of traditional Japanese dishes, including a warming miso soup, delicate sashimi, and seasonal vegetables prepared in various ways. The fresh, high-quality ingredients showcase the culinary bounty of the Shizuoka region.

As they savor each bite, the visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the local food culture and its connection to the area’s renowned green tea production. The relaxed, convivial atmosphere allows the group to further bond over their shared experience exploring the tea farm.

Refueled, they’re ready to hop back on their bikes and continue their cycling adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle Instead?

No, you cannot bring your own bicycle. The tour provides regular bicycles and helmets for participants. The tour logistics do not allow for bringing your own bike, as the group will be using the provided bicycles during the guided excursion.

Will the Guide Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The guide will accommodate dietary restrictions if informed in advance. They aim to provide a customized experience, ensuring all participants can fully enjoy the tea tasting and lunch on the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for families with young children. It requires a moderate level of physical fitness, and the bike ride portion could be challenging for children. However, the tour may be enjoyable for older children.

How Difficult Is the Bike Ride in Terms of Terrain?

The bike ride is moderately challenging. The terrain features gentle slopes and some hills, but it’s not overly strenuous. Participants should have a moderate fitness level to comfortably complete the tour.

Can I Purchase Additional Tea Products at the Farm?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional tea products at the farm during the tour. The farmer offers a selection of high-quality, freshly harvested loose-leaf green teas and tea-related items for travelers to sample and buy.

Recap

This guided bike tour in Shizuoka’s picturesque green tea landscapes offers an immersive and sustainable experience.

Visitors can explore the tea farm, learn about the production process, and savor locally-sourced flavors, providing an authentic appreciation for Japan’s rich tea culture.

With knowledgeable English or French-speaking guides, this tour is a unique opportunity to discover the region’s natural beauty and vibrant traditions.