Authentic Japanese Tea Tasting Session: Sencha, Matcha, Gyokuro

Delving into the heart of Japanese tea culture, the ShiZen Tea Experience in Tokyo offers an authentic tasting session that transports visitors on a sensory journey. Led by the knowledgeable host Yosuke, attendees will savor the intricate flavors of seven types of sencha, four high-grade matcha, and the luxurious gyokuro, all while indulging in simple Japanese sweets and engaging in educational discussions. This intimate group setting promises to unveil the rich tapestry of Japan’s revered tea traditions, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for the art of tea.

Key Points

• Immersive 2.5-hour Japanese tea tasting session featuring a comparison of sencha, matcha, and gyokuro teas, led by an experienced host in Tokyo.
• Opportunity to savor 7 types of sencha, 4 varieties of matcha, and a high-end gyokuro, with educational insights into Japanese tea culture.
• Personalized experience for a maximum of 4 travelers, with tea and Japanese sweets provided, and additional options such as coffee available.
• Highly rated 5.0 experience based on 7 reviews, praised for its informative and engaging nature, with no high-pressure sales.
• Health advisory for pregnant travelers and caffeine-sensitive individuals, with the host providing guidance on managing caffeine intake.

Experience Overview

The activity is an authentic Japanese tea tasting session featuring sencha, matcha, and gyokuro, held at the ShiZen Tea Experience in Tokyo, Japan.

Priced from $80.93 per person, the experience lasts about 2.5 hours, starting at 1:30 PM. The group size is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized session.

Participants will have the opportunity to compare and taste various grades of sencha, matcha, and the luxurious gyokuro tea.

The session is led by Yosuke, a knowledgeable and experienced host, who’s received excellent reviews from previous guests.

Tea Tasting Details

Participants in the authentic Japanese tea tasting session can expect to savor a comparison of 7 types of sencha, ranging from everyday to high-end grades.

The session also includes tasting and comparing 4 types of matcha, with a focus on high-grade spring matcha.

Plus, guests will have the opportunity to experience hand-picked luxury gyokuro, known for its rich flavor.

The tasting is led by Yosuke, a knowledgeable and experienced host in Japanese tea.

With a rating of 5.0 based on 7 reviews, the session is praised for its informative and engaging nature, and the opportunity to taste a variety of premium teas.

Included Amenities

Japanese tea and simple Japanese sweets are provided during the authentic tea tasting session.

Visitors can savor a variety of teas, including sencha, matcha, and gyokuro. Coffee and/or additional tea options are available if desired.

The tea tasting experience offers a chance to deeply appreciate the nuances of high-quality Japanese teas in a serene setting.

The included amenities allow participants to fully enjoy the traditional Japanese tea culture, complementing the educational aspects of the session.

Host and Reviews

Yosuke, a knowledgeable and experienced guide in Japanese tea, leads the authentic tea tasting session.

With a 5.0 rating based on 7 reviews, Yosuke receives high praise from past participants.

Highlights from the feedback include:

• Informative and engaging sessions
• Opportunity to taste a variety of teas
• No pressure sales for purchasing teas post-session
• Well-organized and thorough explanations

Visitors appreciate Yosuke’s expertise and the chance to explore the nuances of sencha, matcha, and gyokuro teas.

The tea tasting offers an immersive experience that educates and delights participants.

Accessibility and Health Advisory

The tea tasting session isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s located near public transportation.

Pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to attend, as the session involves tasting caffeine-rich Japanese teas.

For those sensitive to caffeine, it’s advised to inform the host, Yosuke, ahead of time. Yosuke is knowledgeable about the teas and can provide guidance on managing caffeine intake.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tea tasting experience. This policy provides flexibility for travelers in case of unexpected changes in plans.

The experience host understands that life can be unpredictable, and they aim to accommodate their guests as best they can.

Some key points about the cancellation policy:

• Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled start time aren’t eligible for a refund.
• Rescheduling is subject to availability and may incur additional fees.
• No-shows will be charged the full experience cost.
• Refunds will be processed within 7 business days of the cancellation request.

Meeting Point

The apartment entrance serves as the designated meeting point for the authentic Japanese tea tasting session.

Specific directions are provided to locate the venue, ensuring participants arrive at the correct location.

Travelers can expect a seamless experience, as the host, Yosuke, will be waiting to greet them and guide them to the tea tasting area.

With a maximum group size of 4, the intimate setting allows for personalized attention and a more immersive tea exploration.

Participants should arrive at the meeting point on time to fully enjoy the scheduled 01:30 PM start of the session.

Preparing for the Experience

Before attending the authentic Japanese tea tasting session, travelers should ensure they’ve a few key items ready.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility concerns may want to inquire about accommodations. Caffeine-sensitive individuals should notify the host ahead of time.

Travelers should also be aware that the session isn’t recommended for pregnant women. Plus, it’s important to review the cancellation policy, as free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

With these considerations in mind, guests can fully enjoy the authentic Japanese tea tasting.

Since You Asked

Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Tea Tasting Session?

Photos and videos are generally allowed during the tea tasting session, but it’s best to ask the host for permission first out of respect for the experience and other participants.

Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks to the Experience?

No, participants are not allowed to bring their own food or drinks to the tea tasting experience. The host provides all the necessary beverages and light snacks as part of the session.

Does the Host Provide Any Tea-Related Souvenirs or Merchandise?

The host doesn’t provide any tea-related souvenirs or merchandise during the tasting session, but participants are welcome to purchase tea and tea accessories from the host at the end of the experience if they wish.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tea Tasting Session?

The tasting session has a casual dress code. Guests can come in comfortable, everyday attire. There’s no need for formal wear, as the focus is on enjoying the tea tasting experience in a relaxed setting.

Can I Request a Private or Customized Tea Tasting Experience?

Yes, you can request a private or customized tea tasting experience. The host is willing to accommodate special requests and tailor the session to your preferences, group size, and needs. Simply inquire about the availability of this option.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the rich flavors and nuances of Japanese tea culture at the ShiZen Tea Experience in Tokyo. Led by the knowledgeable host Yosuke, you’ll savor seven types of sencha, four high-grade matcha, and luxurious gyokuro, accompanied by simple Japanese sweets in an intimate group setting. This authentic tasting session starts at $80.93 per person and provides an unforgettable journey into the world of premium Japanese teas.