Matcha, the vibrant green powdered tea, has captivated the world with its unique flavor and health benefits. In the heart of Tokyo, a one-of-a-kind experience awaits, where visitors can embark on a sensory journey through the rich history and diverse varieties of this beloved Japanese treasure. Led by a former tea farmer, this immersive tasting and making session promises to unveil the complexities of matcha and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of tea.
Key Points
- Immersive 1.5-hour matcha tasting and making experience in Tokyo, offering samples of 10 varieties from 5 production areas.
- Opportunity to learn from a former tea farmer about matcha history, production, and preparation using a traditional bamboo whisk.
- Includes tasting of matcha-based latte and sweets, as well as a comprehensive comparison of ceremonial and commercial matcha varieties.
- Full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, and reservation can be secured now with payment later.
- Experience available in English and Japanese, with a maximum of 5 participants per session.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Overview and Pricing
- Experience Highlights
- Tasting 10 Varieties of Matcha
- Learning From a Former Tea Farmer
- Making Your Own Matcha
- Enjoying Matcha Latte and Sweets
- Included Amenities
- Meeting Point and Directions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Experience Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?
- Can I Bring My Own Matcha Powder to the Session?
- Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?
- Can I Purchase Additional Matcha or Sweets After the Experience?
- Is the Experience Available in Other Languages Besides English and Japanese?
- The Sum Up
- Our Top Picks in Tokyo
- More Food & Drink Experiences in Tokyo
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Overview and Pricing
This matcha tasting and making experience takes place in Tokyo and costs from $57.71 per person. It lasts 1.5 hours and is limited to just 5 participants.
The experience is offered in both English and Japanese. Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. To secure a spot, they can reserve now and pay later.
The experience highlights include tasting 10 different matchas, learning from a former tea farmer, making matcha using a bamboo whisk, and enjoying a matcha latte and sweets.
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Experience Highlights
Participants can taste 10 different types of matcha from 5 production areas, providing a comprehensive comparison of the various flavors and characteristics.
They’ll learn about matcha history and production directly from a former tea farmer, offering valuable insights.
The highlight is making their own matcha using a traditional bamboo whisk, an immersive experience that develops a newfound appreciation for the skill and care required.
To complete the experience, participants can savor a matcha latte and matcha sweets made from the original blend matcha they selected.
Tasting 10 Varieties of Matcha
Guests begin the tasting by sampling eight different types of matcha, including six ceremonial-grade varieties and two commercially sold matchas.
Under the guidance of a former tea farmer, they learn about the nuances in color, aroma, and flavor between the various grades. The ceremonial matchas showcase a vibrant green hue and delicate, sweet notes, while the commercial matchas exhibit a slightly duller color and more robust, earthy taste.
After the initial tasting, guests select their preferred matcha to prepare using a traditional bamboo whisk, savoring the fresh, frothy brew.
Learning From a Former Tea Farmer
As a former tea farmer, the instructor guides participants through the nuances of matcha production and history.
They explain:
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The different growing regions and how elevation, climate, and soil impact the flavor profile.
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The meticulous hand-harvesting process, where only the finest leaves are selected.
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The precise steaming, drying, and stone-grinding that transform the leaves into the vibrant green powder.
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How the traditional tea ceremony evolved and how to properly prepare and enjoy matcha.
Participants gain a newfound appreciation for the craft and care that goes into this revered Japanese tea.
More Great Tours NearbyMaking Your Own Matcha
Next, participants are provided with their own set of tools to make their own matcha. They receive a bamboo tea whisk, a small ceramic bowl, and a bamboo spoon.
The instructor demonstrates the proper matcha preparation technique, emphasizing the importance of carefully sifting the matcha powder and gently whisking it with hot water to create a smooth, frothy brew.
Participants then follow the steps, focusing on their movements and the transformation of the powder into a vibrant green liquid.
The experience culminates in savoring the self-made matcha, allowing participants to appreciate the nuances of this revered Japanese tea.
Enjoying Matcha Latte and Sweets
After crafting their own matcha, participants are invited to enjoy a matcha latte and a selection of matcha-infused sweets.
The barista prepares a creamy, frothy matcha latte using the participants’ freshly whisked matcha. To complement the warm, earthy flavor of the latte, the experience provides:
- Matcha-dusted mochi
- Bite-sized matcha cheesecake
- Green tea-flavored daifuku
- A matcha cookie or financier
Sipping the rich, smooth latte and savoring the delicate sweets, participants fully enjoy the refined pleasures of Japanese tea culture.
Included Amenities
The Matcha Tasting and Making Experience provides participants with a comprehensive array of included amenities.
Visitors begin with a welcome drink, setting the stage for the journey ahead. They then embark on a tasting of 8 distinct matcha varieties, hailing from 5 different production regions.
The highlight of the experience is the hands-on matcha making session, where participants use a traditional bamboo whisk to prepare their own cup of the revered green tea.
To complete the experience, guests indulge in a matcha latte and matcha-infused sweets.
Finally, complimentary transportation to the experience location is provided, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Meeting Point and Directions
The meeting point for the Matcha Tasting and Making Experience is the Henn na Hotel Asakusa Tawaramachi, located on the 2nd floor.
Visitors can easily find the location, as there’s a Familymart on the 1st floor of the hotel.
To reach the experience, guests should:
- Enter the hotel.
- Proceed to the 2nd floor.
- Look for the designated meeting area.
- Open Google Maps for precise navigation.
The experience takes place in a dedicated space within the hotel, ensuring a comfortable and focused environment for participants to explore the world of matcha.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Experience Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?
The experience appears suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as it doesn’t mention any animal products. The matcha latte and sweets are likely plant-based, and the tasting portion focuses on the matcha itself. Participants should check with the provider for any specific dietary accommodations.
Can I Bring My Own Matcha Powder to the Session?
While the experience is focused on tasting and making matcha on-site, participants aren’t able to bring their own matcha powder. All materials, including the matcha used, are provided as part of the comprehensive tasting and making session.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?
The experience doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement, but it’s recommended for participants aged 12 and up who can actively engage in the tasting and matcha-making activities. Younger children may need assistance from an adult.
Can I Purchase Additional Matcha or Sweets After the Experience?
Participants can purchase additional matcha or matcha sweets after the experience. The experience includes a tasting and making session, but additional items can be bought separately if desired. There’s no obligation to make any additional purchases.
Is the Experience Available in Other Languages Besides English and Japanese?
The experience is available in English and Japanese only. Additional matcha and sweets may be purchased after the experience, but availability and pricing are not specified in the provided information.
Tokyo: Matcha Tasting and Making Experience
“He provides a very detailed explanation and demonstrates a high level of expertise in his field.”
The Sum Up
This unique matcha tasting and making experience in Tokyo offers a delightful opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse flavors of Japan’s beloved green tea. Guided by a former tea farmer, you will savor ten exceptional matcha varieties, learn the art of preparation, and indulge in a matcha latte and sweets, all while seeing the vibrant culture surrounding this revered beverage.
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