[Japan Wellness] A Tour of Four Springs, Tofu Lunch, and Matcha

Visitors to Kyoto can enjoy the city’s renowned wellness traditions with the "Japan Wellness" tour. This intimate four-hour experience delves into Kyoto’s natural springs, renowned for their restorative properties. Alongside a nourishing tofu and obanzai lunch, guests will savor the flavors of traditional matcha and sweets. With private transportation and hotel pickup, this tour provides a serene introduction to Japan’s wellness practices and culinary heritage. But what makes these springs so special, and how do they contribute to Kyoto’s wellness culture?

Good To Know

• This 4-hour Kyoto wellness tour offers visits to four natural springs, a nourishing tofu and Kyoto obanzai lunch, and a matcha tea ceremony experience.
• The tour includes private transportation, admission fees, and a maximum of 6 travelers to provide a personalized and immersive exploration of Kyoto’s restorative wellness practices.
• Highlights of the tour include learning about the medicinal properties of the natural springs, savoring traditional Japanese cuisine, and participating in a matcha tea ceremony.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is suitable for most travelers, with Kiyomizu-dera Temple not included in the itinerary.
• The tour is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations, and extra time is recommended to account for potential delays.

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Japan Wellness – A Tour of Four Springs, Tofu Lunch, and Matcha," is located in Kyoto, Japan and lasts approximately four hours, starting at 11:00 am.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers and is priced from $130.00 per person.

Inclusions cover nourishing tofu and Kyoto obanzai lunch, matcha and sweets, all transportation fees, admission and activity fees, private transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Travelers will meet at Kyoto Station’s Hachijo Gate and return to the same location.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is suitable for most travelers.

Inclusions

The tour includes a nourishing tofu and Kyoto obanzai lunch, as well as matcha and sweets.

All transportation fees during the tour, admission and activity fees, private transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included. This ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for the travelers.

The tour also provides an opportunity to immerse in the local cuisine and traditions, making it a well-rounded wellness experience in Kyoto.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour meets at Kyoto Station’s Hachijo Gate, where a representative will greet travelers at the Festival Clock Square.

From there, the group will be transported in private vehicles to the various destinations throughout the day.

The tour includes:

1. Visiting four natural springs in the Kyoto area.
2. A nourishing tofu and Kyoto obanzai lunch.
3. Sampling matcha tea and traditional Japanese sweets.

At the end of the tour, travelers will be dropped off back at the original meeting point at Kyoto Station.

Highlights of the Tour

Although the Japan Wellness tour covers a compact itinerary, it promises an immersive exploration of Kyoto’s restorative natural elements and cultural traditions.

Visitors will journey to four revered natural springs, discovering their unique medicinal properties and tranquil settings. They’ll then savor a nourishing Kyoto-style obanzai lunch, featuring locally-sourced tofu dishes.

The tour culminates with a matcha tea ceremony, where you will learn to properly prepare and appreciate the ceremonial green tea, accompanied by traditional Japanese sweets.

This well-rounded experience offers travelers a rejuvenating glimpse into Japan’s wellness practices and refined culinary heritage.

The Four Springs

As participants embark on the Japan Wellness tour, they’ll visit four renowned natural springs around Kyoto, each boasting unique medicinal properties and serene atmospheres.

The first stop is Kifune Shrine’s famous Mitarashi Spring, believed to purify the body and soul.

Next, they’ll experience the Kiyomizudera Temple’s Otowa Waterfall, with waters said to grant luck, longevity, and academic success.

The tour concludes at two hidden gems: the Kamogawa River’s Kamogawamizu Spring, known for its therapeutic effects, and the Kifune River’s Kifunemidzubuchi Spring, revered for its clarity and tranquility.

Tofu Lunch and Kyoto Obanzai

After visiting the four renowned natural springs, participants indulge in a nourishing tofu and Kyoto obanzai lunch.

Obanzai is a traditional Kyoto-style home cooking featuring a variety of small, seasonally-inspired dishes. The tofu is sourced from a local producer and prepared to highlight its creamy texture and delicate flavor.

Alongside the tofu, the obanzai dishes showcase the seasonal bounty of Kyoto’s markets. Participants savor the harmonious blend of flavors and textures, gaining insight into Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage.

This wholesome lunch nourishes both body and spirit, perfectly complementing the rejuvenating spring visits.

Matcha and Sweets

Following the delightful tofu and Kyoto obanzai lunch, participants indulge in a special matcha and sweets experience.

They’ll enjoy:

1. A traditional matcha tea ceremony, where an expert guide prepares and serves the vibrant green tea.
2. A selection of Japanese wagashi, delicate confections made with seasonal ingredients and designed to complement the matcha.
3. The opportunity to try their hand at whisking the matcha themselves, learning the proper technique for a frothy, umami-rich cup of tea.

This serene interlude offers a chance to savor the refined elegance of Japanese tea culture.

Important Information and Cancellation Policy

Confirmation for the tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is located near public transportation. Most travelers can participate, although Kiyomizu-dera Temple is not included in the itinerary. Travelers should allow extra time for potential delays due to traffic or unforeseen circumstances. The cancellation policy is non-refundable, and there are no refunds for cancellations.

Important Information
Not wheelchair accessible	Near public transportation	Most travelers can participate
Kiyomizu-dera Temple not included	Allow extra time for delays	Non-refundable, no cancellations

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Restroom Break During the Tour?

The tour overview does not explicitly mention any scheduled restroom breaks. However, as the tour includes transportation and visiting multiple locations, it’s likely you will have opportunities to use restrooms during the day’s activities.

Can I Take Photos at the Springs?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos at the springs during the tour. However, guests should be mindful of any restrictions or signs that prohibit photography in certain areas or out of respect for others.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in English. While the website doesn’t mention other language options, travelers should check with the tour operator to confirm if translation services or guides in other languages are available upon request.

Can I Buy Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly mention the opportunity to purchase souvenirs. It focuses on the wellness activities, tofu lunch, and matcha experience. Participants should check with the tour provider if there will be time to shop for souvenirs during the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for children, as the maximum participant count is 6 travelers and there are no specific inclusions or activities mentioned for children. The tour appears focused on adult wellness experiences.

The Sum Up

The "Japan Wellness" tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Kyoto’s serene natural springs, savor a nourishing tofu and obanzai lunch, and indulge in traditional matcha and sweets. With private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and an intimate group of up to six travelers, this tour provides a well-rounded immersion into Japan’s wellness practices and culinary heritage, all for a starting price of $130 per person.