Uji Tea Town

We meet at Kyoto Station in the morning and head straight out so we can reach our first destination ahead of the main crowds. We will have plenty of time to admire Hiroshi Hara's futuristic station building when we return in the afternoon.

We choose the railway and the alternative station for Uji—and it will be worth it. After arriving at Keihan Uji Station, we get the chance to admire the award-winning station building by architect Hiroyuki Wakabayashi—an architectural masterpiece that sets the tone for this tea town, blending modern concrete aesthetics with traditional Japanese forms.

A stone's throw from the futuristic station, we can wander beside the famous tea fields where Japan's finest matcha has been cultivated for over 800 years. Learn about the special shading technique that produces Uji's renowned flavor and see the carefully tended rows of tea bushes.

On the east bank of the Uji River lies Ujigami Shrine—a UNESCO World Heritage site whose main hall is considered the oldest surviving Shinto shrine building in Japan. From here we cross the river only once, straight to Byodo-in.

This stunning 11th-century temple is famous for its Phoenix Hall, which appears on the Japanese 10-yen coin. Perfectly reflected in the lotus pond, it represents paradise on earth. The museum houses the original phoenix roof ornaments and exquisite Buddhist art.

Wander through Uji's atmospheric tea alleys, where traditional shops have operated for over 400 years. Sample different varieties of matcha, hojicha, and gyokuro while browsing the charming wooden storefronts.

This is a unique and exclusive tea experience at the legendary Nakamura Tokichi Honten (est. 1854) – far beyond a traditional tea ceremony. This 2.5-hour journey immerses you in centuries of tea culture, from hands-on craftsmanship to refined rituals. For 1–4 guests. Pre-booking required. ① Gathering at the main store ② Guided to a garden-view tatami room ③ Welcome tea and introduction ④ Hands-on stone mill tea grinding ⑤ Special meal (tea soba & fresh tea jelly) ⑥ Tea ceremony in the Zuishō-an tearoom (usucha & koicha) ⑦ Mini tour of Nakamura Tokichi's history ⑧ Farewell A deeply immersive experience that sets itself apart from any other.

Before departing, pick up some matcha snacks and sweets from the local shops. Uji offers unique treats you won't find elsewhere—matcha chocolate, matcha mochi, and premium tea leaves to take home.

Our tea journey ends back at Kyoto Station in the late afternoon. With the flavors and traditions of Uji fresh in memory—from ancient temples to an authentic ceremony in the birthplace of Japanese tea—your evening awaits new adventures.