Small Group Japanese Green Tea Tasting in Shizuoka

An Unforgettable Day in Shizuoka: Small Group Japanese Green Tea Tasting

If you’re seeking an authentic Japanese experience beyond the crowded tourist spots, this small group green tea tour in Shizuoka offers a perfect blend of history, stunning scenery, and cultural insight. For around $300, you’ll spend about seven hours exploring a centuries-old tea farm, tasting freshly brewed Sencha, and marveling at Mt. Fuji from the Nihondaira Yume Terrace. The tour’s intimate size, led by knowledgeable guides, ensures you’ll get personalized attention and genuine stories behind Japan’s beloved green tea.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to visit an Edo-period family-run farm, where you can meet the ninth-generation owners who are passionate about keeping their heritage alive. Plus, the panoramic views of Mt. Fuji from the terrace are truly breathtaking — a highlight for any nature lover or photographer. One minor consideration is that the tour involves public transportation and some walking, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a bit of mobility. This tour is ideal for cruise passengers, day-trippers from Tokyo, or anyone eager to see a more authentic side of Japan’s countryside.

Key Points

• Authentic Tea Culture: Visit a historic Edo-period tea farm run by the ninth generation of the same family.
• Breathtaking Views: Enjoy 360° panoramic vistas of Mt. Fuji from Nihondaira Yume Terrace.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights into Japan’s tea traditions and local history.
• Scenic & Cultural Blend: Combine countryside exploration with modern architecture and cultural exhibitions.
• Flexible Dining Options: Choose your own lunch in a local restaurant, with optional lounge reservations.
• Good Value: Includes transportation, entrance fees, and a green tea tasting, offering a well-rounded experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Moriuchi Tea Farm — A Heritage of Green Tea

Our journey begins early at Shizuoka Station at 9:00 am, where we meet our guide and board a bus heading to Moriuchi Tea Farm. This isn’t just any tea farm — it’s a family-run operation, with roots stretching back to the Edo Period, making it one of Japan’s most historic plantations. The owners, a husband and wife team, are the ninth generation, and their dedication to tradition and quality is evident from the moment you arrive.

Here, we’re welcomed into a world where tea cultivation is a family affair, handed down through generations. The owners are eager to share their knowledge, and you’ll get to explore the fields, learn about cultivation methods, and see how tea leaves are harvested. The experience is more than just tasting — it’s about understanding the care and craftsmanship behind each cup of Sencha.

The admission fee is included, so you’re free to roam and learn without extra costs. The guides are praised for their friendliness and depth of knowledge — as one reviewer put it, “The hosts at the plantation were great, and our guide Atsuko was fantastic.” Even in the rain, the farm’s atmosphere becomes quite atmospheric, adding a cozy charm to the experience.

Stop 2: Nihondaira Yume Terrace — Panoramas and Cultural Insights

After a delicious local lunch (your choice of restaurant, with an option to reserve a lounge in advance), we head towards Nihondaira Yume Terrace around 1:30 pm. The journey uses public transportation, which allows you to soak in more of the local scenery en route.

This architectural marvel by Kuma Kengo boasts a 360° panoramic observation corridor. From here, you can see Mt. Fuji in all its glory, weather permitting — many visitors describe it as “breathtaking.” Besides the views, the terrace features an exhibition that explores Shizuoka’s history and culture, adding educational value to the visit.

If you’d like, your guide can reserve a lounge in the Nippondaira Hotel for a relaxing tea break, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the mountain’s silhouette. Several reviews highlight how guides are attentive to small details like this, making the experience more personalized. The admission fee to the terrace is included, but the hotel lounge is an optional extra, with prices ranging from 500 to 2000 yen.

Stop 3: Nippondaira Hotel — Relaxation with a View

The final stop is the terrace lounge at Nippondaira Hotel, where you can unwind with a cup of tea while marveling at Mt. Fuji. This is often cited as a highlight — the large windows provide a near-constant connection with Japan’s most iconic mountain, especially on clear days.

Here, the experience is about savoring the moment and appreciating how a simple cup of tea can connect you to nature and tradition. The lounge visit isn’t included in the standard price but is highly recommended for a peaceful end to your day.

Return to Shizuoka Station

By 4:00 pm, it’s time to head back. The journey is smooth, and many reviews mention how well-organized the transfers are. The entire experience balances educational insights, scenic beauty, and relaxed exploration — ideal for those who want a taste of Japan’s rural charm without extensive travel or complicated logistics.

Authenticity and Value

This tour’s greatest strength is its focus on authenticity. Visiting a family-run, Edo-period tea farm allows you to see how Japanese green tea is truly produced, not just sampled in a shop. The guides’ knowledge and friendliness make the learning experience engaging, and their willingness to accommodate special requests — like reserving a lounge — adds a personal touch.

The inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and a green tea tasting makes the $300 price tag reasonable for such a comprehensive cultural outing. Compared to standalone visits, this organized tour offers convenience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transit or language.

Several reviewers praise the delicious teas and the knowledgeable hosts, with one noting, “The teas are delicious,” and another calling the hosts “welcoming and knowledgeable.” Even on a rainy day, the atmospheric setting enhances the experience, showing that the farm’s charm isn’t diminished by weather.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

The tour does involve public transportation, which might be less comfortable for travelers with mobility issues or those preferring private rides. Timing is fairly tight, so if you’re looking for a leisurely day with lots of free time, this might not be ideal. Also, lunch is on your own, so budget accordingly if you prefer a specific type of meal or want to indulge at the hotel lounge.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a deep dive into Japan’s tea culture, appreciate stunning mountain scenery, and enjoy guided small group tours. It’s perfect for cruise ship passengers stopping at Shimizu Port, day-trippers from Tokyo seeking a rural escape, or culture enthusiasts eager to see a family-run farm with centuries of tradition. The mix of educational content, scenic views, and authentic hospitality makes it a memorable, worthwhile outing.

FAQs

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, this tour is typically booked about 29 days ahead, ensuring you secure a spot for this popular experience.

What is included in the price? The price covers English-speaking guides, public transportation, entrance fees at Moriuchi Tea Farm, and a green tea/Sencha flight tasting.

Are meals included? No, you need to choose and pay for your own lunch, although the tour includes an option to reserve a lounge at Nihondaira Yume Terrace for a relaxing break.

Is transportation provided? Yes, the tour includes round-trip taxi fare from the tea farm to Shizuoka station and public transport for other segments.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for exploring the tea farm and walking around the terrace.

Can I participate if I don’t speak much Japanese? Absolutely. The guide speaks English, and the tour is designed for international visitors.

Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the focus on cultural and scenic elements makes it suitable for children, especially those interested in nature and history.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up

This small group Japanese green tea tour in Shizuoka offers an authentic, well-rounded experience blending history, nature, and culture. You’ll leave with more than just photos — you’ll gain insight into the craftsmanship behind Japan’s most iconic beverage and enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji. It’s a thoughtfully designed trip, perfect for those curious about Japan’s rural traditions but wanting comfort and convenience.

Ideal for cruise visitors, day-trippers, or anyone eager for a taste of genuine Japan outside the usual tourist spots, this tour provides excellent value for the price. You’ll connect with locals, learn about green tea cultivation, and see some of Japan’s most beautiful vistas — all in one well-organized day.

If you want a small-group, immersive experience that emphasizes authenticity and scenic beauty, this tour deserves a spot on your Japan itinerary. Just remember to book in advance, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a memorable journey into Japan’s tea country.