Shizuoka: 6-hour Private Tour & Japanese Tea Farm with Vehicle
Location: Honshu, Japan
Price: $771 per group (up to 1 person)
Duration: 6 hours
Provider Rating: 4.8

Imagine spending a day in Shizuoka, a jewel of Japan’s Honshu Island, blending the serenity of a traditional Japanese tea farm with the flexibility of a personalized city sightseeing experience. For a little over $770, you’ll enjoy a private vehicle and driver, a licensed guide, and the chance to craft an itinerary that suits your interests—be it exploring historic sites or soaking in breathtaking views. The highlight? Tasting freshly brewed Moriuchi Tea at a family-run farm with centuries of tradition.

We love how this tour offers a deep dive into Japan’s tea culture, meeting the ninth-generation owners, and learning firsthand about their dedication to their craft. The spectacular views of Mt. Fuji from the tea farm lookout are a highlight that really sticks with us. It’s also great that you can choose 1 or 2 additional spots in Shizuoka city—making this a flexible, tailored experience.

One thing to consider: the cost might seem steep if you’re traveling solo, but with a private guide and vehicle, the personalized nature of the experience offers solid value. It’s best suited for travelers who love authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, or those wanting to combine cultural insight with scenic beauty in a single day.

Key Points

Personalized itinerary: You pick 1 or 2 city sights to visit, making it a flexible experience.
Authentic tea experience: Meet family owners and taste real Japanese tea brewed on their historic farm.
Private comfort: Travel with your own vehicle and driver, avoiding crowded tours.
Cultural insights: Guided by a licensed guide, gaining local knowledge and context.
Spectacular views: The tea farm lookout offers panoramic Mt. Fuji vistas.
Convenience: Pickup at your hotel or Shizuoka station makes the day seamless.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Day in Shizuoka: An In-Depth Look

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Shizuoka

Starting at Moriuchi Tea Farm: A Heritage in Every Leaf

Your day begins at the Moriuchi Tea Farm, a family-run plantation that dates back to the Edo Period, giving you a genuine taste of Japan’s long-standing tea tradition. You’ll meet the husband and wife team, the ninth-generation owners, who are passionate about passing down their knowledge. It’s a rare chance to see a working farm that has preserved its methods through centuries. The owners’ pride is palpable when they explain their commitment to quality and tradition.

What makes this visit special? We loved the way the owners shared their personal stories and demonstrated the intricate process of tea cultivation. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the owners talked passionately about their craft and the history behind each leaf.” You’ll walk through the lush green fields, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and learn how Japanese green tea is cultivated, harvested, and processed.

The highlight for many: tasting their unique brewed tea right on the farm. It’s a far cry from supermarket tea—this is fresh, flavorful, and a window into Japan’s tea culture. You might even relax on the lookout point, where views of Mt. Fuji create a stunning backdrop that makes the whole experience feel almost cinematic.

Customizable City Tour: Your Choice of Sights

Post-tea, your guide will take you into Shizuoka City in a private vehicle, giving you the flexibility to choose 1 or 2 attractions. The options include:

Sumpu Castle Park: Perfect for history lovers, offering a glimpse into feudal Japan with ruins and lovely gardens.
Shizuoka Sengen Shrine: A serene Shinto shrine, perfect for those interested in spiritual sites and traditional architecture.
Kunozan Toshogu Shrine: An elegant shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, offering fantastic views and a taste of samurai history.

You can tailor your visit after your initial contact with your guide, who will help craft an itinerary aligned with your interests. This flexibility is especially valuable if you want to focus more on cultural or historic sights or simply want a leisurely stroll through local neighborhoods.

Comfort and Convenience: Private, Flexible, and Accessible

Traveling in a private vehicle with a driver means you’ll avoid crowded buses or confusing public transit, making the day more relaxed. Pickup can be arranged at your hotel or Shizuoka station—within a 10 km radius—or even Shimizu Port, adding convenience for cruise travelers.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, although note that there are only limited car seats and booster seats available, with no rear-facing options. If you need such accommodations, it’s best to contact the provider directly beforehand.

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What We Heard from Other Travelers

Many reviews highlight the personalized touch of this experience. One person said, “The private guide made all the difference, tailoring the day to what we wanted to see.” Others appreciated the chance to learn about tea from the owners themselves, describing it as “an authentic, heartfelt experience.” A common note was the spectacular views of Mt. Fuji, which adds a magical feel to the farm visit and makes for incredible photos.

While in Shizuoka, here are other experiences we've covered

Guided Bike Tour to a Green Tea Farm in Shizuoka (not e-bikes)

The Price and Its Value

At $771 for a private group (up to one person), this tour leans toward the premium end, but that’s largely due to the private vehicle, guide, and exclusive experiences. When you consider the cost of transportation, personalized attention, and access to a historic family farm, the value becomes more apparent—especially for those seeking a cultural and scenic immersion rather than a cookie-cutter tour.

For travelers who want a comfortable, flexible, and in-depth experience, this tour offers a lot for the price. It’s especially good for those who enjoy tasting authentic local products and learning about Japan’s traditional industries directly from local families.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for culture lovers, tea enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxed, personalized day in Shizuoka. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic stories, spectacular scenery, and the comfort of private transport. If you’re keen on craftsmanship, family histories, and scenic vistas, this tour hits all those marks.

However, if you’re on an extremely tight budget or prefer a more structured, group-oriented experience, this might be less suitable. It’s best for those wanting deep engagement rather than just ticking off a few sights.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

Bring cash for purchases or tips, as some small vendors may not accept cards.
Coordinate pickup details in advance, especially if your hotel or port has specific requirements.
Plan for flexibility—you can choose your sights after booking, so think about what interests you most.
Prepare for light walking at the farm and sites, and wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
Book early to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak seasons.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the price is per group, so solo travelers will pay $771 for a private experience. It’s a great way for one person to enjoy a tailored day, though it may seem costly if traveling alone.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. After booking, you can discuss your preferred 1 or 2 spots in Shizuoka city with your guide, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, a licensed guide, and the tea farm experience. Entrance fees to city sights are typically not included but can be clarified with your guide.

How long is the tea farm visit?
The tour lasts about 6 hours total, with the tea farm experience generally fitting into a significant portion of that time—enough to explore, taste, and enjoy the views.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but note that limited car seats are available. It’s best to confirm your needs with the provider before booking.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just some cash, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. If you want to buy souvenirs or additional tea, bring extra cash.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance.

This private tour offers a wonderful blend of cultural discovery, scenic beauty, and personalized service. Whether you’re a tea lover or just curious about Japan’s rural traditions, it provides a meaningful, relaxed day that’s tailored to your interests. It’s a fine choice if you value authentic experiences in comfort, making your time in Shizuoka memorable and insightful.