Wazuka: Tea Picking Experience with Matcha Tea Tasting

If you’re traveling in Japan and want to go beyond touristy sights, a tea-picking experience in Wazuka offers a genuine taste of local culture. For $450 per person, you’ll spend a day in this charming countryside town, learning about matcha—the powdered green tea Japan is famous for—and actually picking tea leaves yourself. Guided by passionate locals, this tour promises a mix of hands-on activity, delicious tasting, and authentic insights into Japan’s tea heritage.

What we really love about this experience is how it connects you directly with the source of one of Japan’s most iconic ingredients. First, you get to pick green tea leaves in the lush, peaceful countryside—something few travelers ever get to do. Then, you’ll enjoy a freshly brewed cup of matcha, prepared by your guide, along with two special chadango, traditional sweet dumplings flavored with tea. The second highlight is the chance to learn from a local guide who’s truly passionate about the area’s tea culture, making the experience both educational and heartfelt.

However, a point to consider is that the tour is not suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, or those with altitude sickness or mobility issues. Also, it’s a half-day experience, so if you’re looking for a full-day activity, you’ll need to plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who enjoy hands-on cultural activities, are interested in Japanese food and tea traditions, and appreciate small, authentic experiences away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic hands-on experience: You’ll pick tea leaves directly from the source, gaining insight into the process behind Japan’s famous matcha.
• Local guide expertise: Guided by a passionate local, you’ll learn about Wazuka’s history and its near-40% share of Uji’s matcha production.
• Cultural tasting: The tour includes a cup of matcha and two chadango sweets, giving you a taste of local traditions.
• Practical details: All necessary equipment is provided, and the tour takes place in beautiful, countryside surroundings.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for very young children, those with mobility issues, or people with altitude sickness.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now with a “pay later” option, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Wazuka: The Heart of Japan’s Matcha

Located in the southeastern part of Kyoto prefecture, Wazuka is best known for its lush green tea plantations, which produce nearly 40% of Japan’s Uji matcha. It’s a quiet, rural town where the pace slows down, and the focus is on agriculture, tradition, and community. For travelers wanting to see an authentic side of Japan’s tea industry, Wazuka offers a perfect combination of scenic beauty and cultural depth.

The tour begins with a meet-up in the town, where your guide, a local passionate about matcha, greets you with enthusiasm. From there, you’ll head into the fields, equipped with all necessary gear—gloves, scissors, and perhaps a hat to shield you from the sun. It’s a straightforward activity, but one that makes you appreciate the effort behind every sip of matcha. We loved the way the guide explained how the tea leaves are cultivated, harvested, and processed, providing context that elevates the tasting experience.

The Tea-Picking Session

Expect to spend about 30-45 minutes in the fields, carefully picking fresh green tea leaves. The process is simple but satisfying—think of it as a mini farming lesson with a reward at the end. According to reviews, many travelers appreciate the hands-on approach, which makes the entire experience feel more authentic and meaningful.

One guest shared, “We loved the way the guide explained the significance of each step and how they preserve traditional methods.” Picking tea leaves is more than just a fun activity; it’s a lesson in patience and craftsmanship—values embedded deep within Japanese culture.

The Matcha Tasting and Sweets

After harvesting your leaves, you’ll return to a local setting to enjoy a hot cup of freshly prepared matcha. The guide will prepare the tea using traditional methods, allowing you to see the ritual involved in making this powdered green tea. The taste of the matcha is vibrant, umami-rich, and slightly grassy—a true highlight.

Accompanying the tea are two pieces of chadango, small skewered dumplings flavored with tea. These sweets are a delightful contrast to the bitter green tea, offering a subtle sweetness and chewy texture. Travelers have commented on how these treats give a real sense of local flavor, and some mention that the tea-flavored dumplings are so good they make the experience memorable.

The Town of Wazuka and Its Heritage

Wazuka’s history as a tea-producing area dates back centuries, and the region’s dedication to quality and tradition remains strong today. The tour provides a window into this world, with your guide sharing stories about how the town evolved and its significance within the broader Uji tea industry.

The scenery here is worth the trip alone: rolling hills dotted with neatly arranged tea fields, framed by distant mountains. It’s a peaceful escape perfect for photo-taking and reflection. The tour’s small group size ensures a personal touch, making it easy to ask questions and linger over the views.

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Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour runs roughly half a day, with the itinerary including tea-leaf harvesting, a guided explanation of the process, and the tea-tasting session. All necessary equipment—such as gloves and scissors—is provided, so no need to bring your own tools. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and bring water to stay hydrated, especially if the weather is sunny.

While the experience is straightforward, it’s not designed for children under 10 or those with mobility issues. The walking in the fields is gentle but requires some standing, and the activity isn’t suited for wheelchair users or anyone sensitive to high altitudes.

Pricing at $450 per person reflects the personalized nature of the experience, the quality of the guide, and the inclusion of matcha and sweets. Considering how much insight and authentic activity you get, it offers solid value—especially for those who want to go beyond just tasting tea and actually understand its roots.

This tour offers flexibility with a “reserve and pay later” option, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. It’s a small group experience, so booking early is recommended if you want to secure your spot.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re someone curious about Japanese food culture, enjoy interactive experiences, or want an authentic story behind the tea in your cup, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for culture lovers, foodies, and those seeking a peaceful countryside escape. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable walking in outdoor settings and don’t have mobility restrictions.

The Sum Up

This Wazuka tea-picking tour offers a rare chance to connect with Japan’s beloved matcha on a personal level. From harvesting fresh leaves to sipping freshly brewed tea, you leave with a newfound appreciation for the craft behind every cup. It’s a delightful blend of activity, education, and tasting that suits those who value authentic local experiences over cookie-cutter tours.

While it’s not the most accessible or lengthy activity, the intimate nature and genuine insight make it a memorable addition to any trip in Kyoto or Uji. Whether you’re a dedicated tea enthusiast or simply curious about Japanese traditions, this tour provides a meaningful peek into a craft that’s been perfected over centuries.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 10 years old, as the activity involves outdoor walking and handling tools.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended, especially on sunny days.

Are all the necessary tools provided?
Yes, all equipment needed for tea-picking is included in the tour.

Can I cancel or change my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

Is this experience accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the outdoor nature and terrain of the fields.

Does the tour include transportation?
The provided information does not specify transportation details, but expect to meet in Wazuka town and walk to the fields.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a half-day experience, roughly covering the activities from tea leaf harvesting to tasting.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guidance is available in both English and Japanese, ensuring good communication for most travelers.

What makes this tour special?
The chance to pick tea leaves yourself and learn about Wazuka’s significant role in Japan’s matcha production makes this experience unique and memorable.

This is a wonderful way to step outside typical sightseeing and genuinely connect with Japan’s tea traditions. If you’re looking for a meaningful, educational, and tasty experience that takes you into the heart of a tea-loving community, this tour in Wazuka deserves a spot on your travel list.

You can check availability for your dates here: