Using upcycled matcha! Making smokeless matcha incense (Uji, Kyoto)

Imagine spending an hour in the peaceful surroundings of Eshin-in Temple in Uji, Kyoto, creating your own unique matcha incense from recycled tea powder. For just $77.87 per person, this hands-on experience offers not only a chance to craft a beautiful aroma but also to learn about the importance of sustainable practices in traditional Japanese culture. The tour lasts about one hour and includes all materials, a special incense burner to take home, and discounts for local attractions.

What we particularly love about this workshop is how it combines eco-friendly activities with a touch of artistry—making 6-7 smokeless incense pieces shaped with wooden molds resembling edible pastries. Plus, the temple garden offers scenic views of Byodo-in Temple, adding a calming backdrop. A second highlight is the fact that the ingredients are derived from discarded, fresh Uji matcha, giving new purpose to what would otherwise go to waste.

The only potential downside might be the need for an English interpreter, which requires pre-arrangement and an additional fee of ¥8,800. This could be a hurdle for some travelers, but it’s well worth it for those who want the full experience explained clearly. This tour suits travelers interested in Japanese culture, sustainable practices, and creative crafts—especially those who appreciate authentic, educational activities in a tranquil setting.

Key Points

• Unique experience of making smokeless matcha incense from recycled tea powder.
• Beautiful temple setting with views overlooking Byodo-in Temple.
• Eco-friendly activity that repurposes tea waste, adding value and sustainability.
• Craftsmanship and artistry with over 50 types of candy wood molds shaping the incense.
• All materials and a special incense burner included, making it a perfect souvenir.
• Optional English interpretation available for better understanding (additional fee applies).

A Closer Look at the Matcha Incense Workshop in Uji

When we first heard about this tour, the idea of making smokeless, fragrant incense from upcycled matcha immediately caught our attention. It’s a combination of art, sustainability, and sensory pleasure—not something you find every day. Located in the heart of Uji, famed for its high-quality matcha, the experience takes place at Eshin-in Temple, a serene spot with well-maintained gardens and a stunning view of the Byodo-in Temple across the Uji River.

The Itinerary in Detail

The workshop is designed to be both informative and fun, running approximately one hour. The first part, lasting about 15 minutes, introduces you to the world’s only matcha incense—an aroma crafted solely from matcha, specially made to warm without burning, releasing a tea-like scent. During this time, you’ll learn about the process and the benefits of smokeless incense, which is healthier and easier to use in shared spaces.

Then, the real fun begins. You’ll spend roughly 45 minutes shaping and molding your own 6-7 pieces of incense using wooden molds. These molds are inspired by traditional Japanese sweets and candies, giving the incense a whimsical, edible look. The fact that the molds are custom-made, with over 50 types of candy-style shapes, makes each piece a small work of art. We loved how the incense retains its shape even after the fragrance fades—so it can be used repeatedly as an aroma stone.

What Makes This Experience Special

One of the most appealing aspects is how eco-conscious it is. The ingredients used are discarded fresh Uji matcha, which normally would be thrown away. Instead, you get to turn this waste into something beautiful and fragrant, supporting sustainable practices. The incense is soft and has a healing effect on the mind, making it not just a craft but also a form of relaxation.

Another highlight is the incense burner you’ll receive, which can be folded into a compact form suitable for travel. It’s a handy souvenir you can immediately enjoy at home, filling your space with the calming scent of matcha. Plus, the workshop includes discount tickets for local attractions like the Uji Municipal Teahouse and the Tale of Genji Museum, making the overall experience more affordable.

Authenticity and Cultural Connection

The instructor’s explanations are in Japanese only, but if you opt for an English interpreter (additional ¥8,800), you’ll get a richer understanding of the process and cultural significance. Many reviews mention how kind and patient the instructor is, ensuring everyone feels comfortable while shaping their incense.

The Setting and Atmosphere

The peaceful Eshin-in Temple grounds are an integral part of the experience. With seasonal flowers and a garden carefully tended by the priest, it’s a place that encourages tranquility and reflection. The view overlooking Byodo-in is particularly breathtaking, and many visitors say it adds a special touch to the workshop. The location is easily accessible, just a five-minute walk from Ujibashi Bridge, the main tourist hub in Uji.

Practical Aspects

The entire tour is capped at eight travelers, making it intimate and personalized. You’ll need to arrive 5 minutes early to start on time, as the schedule is strict. Public parking is available, and the cost includes all fees, materials, and your handcrafted incense to take home. The tour is suitable for travelers aged 15 and above, but children are welcome when accompanied by adults, and even younger kids can participate if they enjoy playing with clay.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Multiple reviews praise the workshop for its relaxing atmosphere and fun, creative activity. One reviewer shared, “We enjoyed the version of this tour that included a matcha-themed kaiseki lunch, and it was really fun.” Others appreciated the beautiful incense they created, with comments like, “My 15-year-old enjoyed making his own set and my 7-year-old helped me,” emphasizing that it’s accessible for families too.

The views and the ambiance are also frequently highlighted. Several mention the beautiful garden and the scenic setting, which elevate the experience beyond just a craft activity. One reviewer called it “a wonderful and relaxing workshop,” pointing out the kindness of the teacher and how much they appreciated the opportunity to create something meaningful.

The Value of the Experience

At $77.87, the price might seem a bit high for a one-hour craft activity, but considering what’s included—materials, a handcrafted incense burner, and the chance to make 6-7 pieces—you’re getting a lot of value. On top of that, the fact that your incense is made from recycled, fresh matcha, adds an eco-conscious angle that many travelers find worthwhile.

The discount tickets for local attractions further enhance the experience, making Uji’s rich cultural offerings more accessible. And the souvenir you bring home—a beautiful, fragrant incense and a foldable incense burner—is a tangible reminder of your time in Uji.

Who Should Consider This Workshop?

This experience is ideal for travelers who like hands-on cultural activities and value sustainable practices. It’s a perfect fit for those interested in Japanese traditions, aromatherapy, and eco-conscious crafts. Families with children who enjoy clay and creative projects will also find it engaging. If you have a brief stay in Uji and want to learn something authentic and meaningful, this workshop fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

This matcha incense-making experience offers more than just a craft—it’s a gentle immersion into Kyoto-style craftsmanship, combined with environmental mindfulness. The setting, with its beautiful temple gardens and views of Byodo-in, makes it a memorable backdrop for your creative efforts. The fact that the incense is smokeless and made from recycled ingredients makes it a healthier, more sustainable choice—something increasingly important to today’s travelers.

If you’re seeking a relaxing, authentic activity that results in a beautiful, usable souvenir, this tour has a lot to offer. The limited group size ensures personalized attention, and the opportunity to learn about traditional Japanese incense in such a peaceful environment makes this a standout experience in Uji.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, especially those who enjoy playing with clay. The soft clay incense has a calming effect, and kids often enjoy shaping the molds.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Japanese?
Yes, but it’s recommended to arrange an English interpreter if you want a detailed explanation. The interpreter service costs an additional ¥8,800 and must be booked in advance.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes are included, along with the materials to make 6-7 pieces of incense, a special foldable incense burner, and a candle. You also get discount tickets for local attractions.

How long is the workshop?
The total duration is about one hour, divided into a brief introduction and the crafting session.

Where does the workshop take place?
At Eshin-in Temple, a short walk from Ujibashi Bridge, with scenic garden views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Is parking available?
Yes, there is free parking for one car. If the lot is full, nearby paid parking is accessible.

To sum it up, this workshop in Uji offers an exceptional blend of art, sustainability, and cultural insight. It’s perfect for travelers eager to connect with traditional Japanese crafts while supporting eco-friendly initiatives. The serene temple setting and scenic views make it not just a craft session but a peaceful retreat—an experience to cherish long after you return home.