Kyoto Uji Tea Picking and Byodo in Temple Private Tour

The Kyoto Uji Tea Picking and Byodoin Temple Private Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich tea culture of Uji. Visitors will learn traditional hand-picking techniques from expert farmers, transform freshly picked leaves into matcha powder, and explore the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site of Byodoin Temple. With a local lunch and insightful guidance, this tour promises a memorable and culturally enriching experience. What makes this tour stand out, however, is the chance to…

Good To Know

• Private tour in Uji, Japan focusing on traditional tea picking and visiting the iconic Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Includes admission fees, local lunch, and guidance from experienced tea farmers and knowledgeable tour guides.
• Offers hands-on experience in learning traditional tea picking techniques and gaining insight into Kyoto’s renowned tea culture.
• Provides opportunity to explore the stunning architecture and serene grounds of the Byodoin Temple, known for its iconic Phoenix Hall.
• Utilizes public transportation for convenient travel, with the tour starting at Uji Station and ending at the Byodoin Temple.

Tour Overview

This private tour offers visitors a chance to experience the centuries-old tradition of tea picking in Uji, Japan.

The tour begins at Uji Station and ends at the iconic Byodoin Temple. Participants will spend the day learning about the tea-picking process and visiting the historic Buddhist temple.

The experience includes admission fees, a local lunch, and ensures your group has the tour all to itself.

Meeting at 9:30 AM, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.

Public transportation is utilized, with no reserved seating.

Meeting Point and Itinerary

The tour begins at Uji Station, located in Otsukata Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan. From there, you’ll be whisked away to experience the art of traditional tea picking in Uji, renowned for its high-quality green tea. After the tea picking, you’ll visit the iconic Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan’s most impressive examples of Pure Land Buddhist architecture.

Meeting Point	Start Time	End Point	End Time
Uji Station	9:30 AM	Byodoin Temple	–

The tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Uji’s rich tea culture and historical landmarks, immersing you in the serene beauty of this picturesque region.

Tea Picking Experience

After arriving at the tea plantation, participants are immersed in the centuries-old tradition of hand-picking the finest tea leaves.

Guided by experienced tea farmers, they learn proper techniques to pluck the tender top leaves and buds, ensuring the highest quality.

The fragrant freshly picked tea leaves are then carefully processed into a signature matcha powder.

If inclement weather prevents the tea picking, guests instead enjoy an interactive matcha making demonstration, learning to prepare the traditional Japanese green tea.

This hands-on experience provides a unique insight into Kyoto’s cherished tea culture.

Matcha Making Alternative

If inclement weather prevents the anticipated tea picking, participants instead enjoy an interactive matcha making demonstration.

A local tea expert guides the group through the traditional process of preparing matcha, from grinding the green tea leaves into a fine powder to whisking the bright green powder into a frothy, bittersweet beverage.

Guests have the opportunity to try their hand at this delicate technique, gaining an appreciation for the skill and precision required.

While not the original plan, the matcha making experience offers an engaging culture and a chance to savor the nuances of Japan’s iconic green tea.

Byodoin Temple Visit

What makes the Byodoin Temple visit so fascinating? Stepping inside this UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors are awestruck by its stunning architecture and cultural significance. The unique Phoenix Hall, with its iconic symmetrical design and golden statues, is the centerpiece. Visitors can wander the expansive temple grounds, explore the museum, and learn about the temple’s rich history dating back to the 11th century. The experience culminates in the opportunity to soak in the serene beauty of the temple’s reflecting pond. A truly immersive cultural experience awaits.

Temple Features	Description
Phoenix Hall	Iconic symmetrical design with golden statues
Museum	Exhibits on the temple’s history and culture
Reflecting Pond	Serene setting to appreciate the temple’s beauty
Temple Grounds	Expansive area to explore the full site

Included Amenities

The tour includes various amenities to enhance the Kyoto Uji tea picking experience.

Guests can enjoy:

• The admission fee to the tea plantation and Byodoin Temple, ensuring seamless access to these iconic sites.
• A delectable lunch, allowing travelers to savor local flavors and recharge during the excursion.
• The expertise of a knowledgeable guide, who can provide valuable insights and context throughout the tour.
• The convenience of transportation, as the tour utilizes public transit, eliminating the need for participants to navigate on their own.

These thoughtful inclusions create a well-rounded and memorable Uji tea picking experience.

Tour Policies and Restrictions

Although confirmation for the Kyoto Uji Tea Picking Tour is received within 48 hours, subject to availability, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Most travelers can participate, but public transportation is utilized without reserved seats.

Arrive promptly, as refunds won’t be issued for late arrivals or no-shows.

The tour may be canceled due to natural disasters, in which case a full refund will be provided.

Expect high congestion on weekends, holidays, and event days.

Visitors are responsible for their own valuables.

Infants under 2 can join but must sit on laps.

The guide’s English proficiency may be a potential barrier.

Reviews and Ratings

According to the information provided, the Kyoto Uji Tea Picking Tour has received 1 review with a rating of 4.0 based on Viator and Tripadvisor.

The reviewer, Patricia_N, praised the fun and educational tea picking experience, but noted that the Byodoin Temple was crowded and the English fluency of the guide could improve.

The tour received a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Key highlights from the review include:

1. Fun and educational tea picking experience
2. Crowded Byodoin Temple
3. English fluency of guide could improve
4. Overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code mentioned for this tour. Participants should dress comfortably for walking and being outdoors, and wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. Casual, practical attire is recommended.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Lunch?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or halal lunch. The tour provider accommodates dietary restrictions with advance notice. Simply let them know your preference when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration based on the provided information. The tour details indicate a specific start and end time of 9:30 AM to the Byodoin Temple. Extensions may need to be arranged separately with the tour provider.

Can I Purchase Tea or Matcha Directly From the Farm?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t offer the option to purchase tea or matcha directly from the farm. The focus is on the tea picking experience and visiting the Byodoin Temple. Direct tea/matcha sales aren’t included in the tour package.

Are Photography and Filming Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photography and filming are generally allowed during the tour. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the tea picking or temple experience. It’s best to check with the guide for any specific restrictions.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Uji’s renowned tea culture. Visitors can learn traditional tea-picking techniques, transform fresh leaves into matcha, and explore the stunning Byodoin Temple. With a local lunch and knowledgeable guidance, this tour provides a memorable and culturally enriching experience for those interested in Japan’s tea heritage.