Which Uji Tours To Choose? We Rank The 15 Best

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The 15 Best Tours in Uji

Uji isn’t just a quiet town with a famous tea brand; it’s a place where history, spirituality, and Japan’s tea culture intersect in fascinating ways. Its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, bike, or by guided tour, and each experience offers a different window into what makes Uji so special. We particularly love the Kyoto: Tea Museum Tickets and Matcha Grinding Experience for its hands-on approach to green tea, and the Uji: Green Tea Tour with Byodoin and Koshoji Temple Visits for its combination of cultural gems and tea tasting. Whether you’re a dedicated tea connoisseur or just curious about Japan’s spiritual sites, Uji has plenty to offer.

If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of Japanese tea, explore historic temples, or just enjoy a scenic cycle along the river, Uji’s tours are designed to satisfy. Many tours include visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, traditional tea ceremonies, and even opportunities to make your own matcha. With options ranging from half-day explorations to full-day adventures, you can choose how much time to spend soaking in Uji’s charm.

Quick Overview

This list features 15 of the best tours in Uji, each tailored to different interests and schedules. For tea lovers, there are immersive matcha tasting and making tours, farm visits, and even eco-friendly incense-making experiences. History buffs will appreciate walks through Uji’s UNESCO sites, and outdoor enthusiasts can opt for a relaxing bike tour or a private cycling adventure. Each experience offers unique insights and memorable moments—perfect for planning your ideal visit.

Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these top-rated tours.

1. Kyoto: Tea Museum Tickets and Matcha Grinding Experience

At number 1, this Tea Museum experience stands out for its interactive approach. You’ll explore Chazuna Museum’s exhibits that tell the story of Uji’s famed green tea, then get the chance to grind your own matcha with a traditional stone mill. An instructor guides you through the process of brewing and tasting, making it perfect for anyone curious about how high-quality matcha is made. Guests consistently rave about the sensory journey of tasting freshly brewed matcha and the digital exhibits that let you touch and feel the tea. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and at just $24, it’s a bargain for a hands-on cultural activity. Ideal for tea enthusiasts and families alike.
Bottom Line: An engaging, affordable way to understand Japan’s tea culture and enjoy the aroma of freshly ground matcha.

2. Uji: Green Tea Tour with Byodoin and Koshoji Temple Visits

For around $111, the Uji Green Tea Tour is a well-rounded introduction to Uji’s green tea heritage. This 4-hour guided walk features tastings of top-quality local green tea and insights into the cultural blend of samurai, religion, and tea. You’ll visit Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its Phoenix Hall, and Koshoji Temple, a mountain-side Zen temple linked historically to tea’s role in Zen Buddhism. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides like Damien and Ferdinand, who make the history come alive while sharing nuances of tea and spiritual practices. It’s a great choice if you want a deep culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history and tea lovers seeking an informative, beautiful tour with authentic temple visits.

3. Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour

The Kyoto Matcha Green Tea Tour offers a comprehensive, 3-hour journey into Uji’s renowned matcha districts. For $221, you’ll explore local tea shops, watch matcha being prepared, and taste multiple varieties—including wagashi sweets and matcha ice cream. The highlight is the insight into matcha’s production and history, plus a visit to Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO site. This tour is ideal for travelers eager to expand their matcha knowledge and enjoy a delicious set lunch. Past participants highlight the chance to discover hidden local shops and learn how to prepare tea properly.
Bottom Line: A premium experience suited for serious tea aficionados interested in both tasting and understanding matcha’s craftsmanship.

4. Uplifting Uji: Kyoto’s Tea, Shrines, and Natural Spirituality

This private tour combines cultural sites and spiritual insights over 4 hours. Highlights include visits to Ujigami Shrine, Uji Park, and Byodoin Temple, with a focus on tea customs and religious practices. Guide Ferdi’s storytelling about the intersection of tea and Buddhism makes this tour stand out. You’ll enjoy a gyokuro tea tasting and explore historic Uji’s architecture and natural landscapes. Guests appreciate the serene pace and the chance to learn how tea influenced Japanese spirituality. It’s perfect if you want a personalized, relaxed exploration.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who value quiet reflection and want a deep dive into Uji’s spiritual tea roots.

5. Uji and Wazuka Matcha Farm Half Day Private Guided Tour

For the true matcha lover, this full-day private tour offers a 6-hour deep dive into Japan’s premier matcha production areas. Starting in Uji, then heading to Wazuka, the tour visits local farms, where you can learn about tea cultivation for 800 years. You’ll stroll along scenic riverbanks, cross the historic Uji Bridge, and enjoy a traditional Bento Lunch at a family home. The tour’s personalized approach and detailed explanations make it ideal for dedicated enthusiasts. Past travelers describe Masae’s deep knowledge and engaging storytelling.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, personalized experience designed for those who want to fully enjoy Japan’s matcha culture.

6. Slow Cycling Tour at Uji’s Matcha Green Tea Fields and Heritage

This cycling tour combines scenery, history, and exercise over 4.5 hours. Using a BROMPTON bike, you’ll visit Uji’s tea museum, Ujigami Shrine, and the Uji River, taking in stunning views and learning about tea cultivation. The slow pace makes it accessible for most fitness levels. Reviewers love the local navigator’s knowledge and the chance to see hidden spots beyond the usual tourist paths. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a relaxed ride while soaking in Uji’s landscape and cultural sites.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to combine outdoor activity with cultural discovery.

7. Kyoto Tea Town for Matcha Lovers

This walking tour is a delightful 5-hour exploration for matcha enthusiasts. You’ll visit Uji Shrine, enjoy matcha rice cake skewers at a shop over 850 years old, and stroll through Uji’s historic streets. The guide shares fascinating fun facts about the art of tea and local traditions, making it ideal for foodies and culture seekers. Past reviews praise the friendly guide Terumi for her deep knowledge and ability to pace the tour comfortably.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want an in-depth, foodie-focused walk through Uji’s tea history and local flavors.

8. Uji Tea Ceremony and UNESCO Heritage Walking Tour

This 3-hour tour (book here) combines UNESCO sites and traditional tea in a balanced itinerary. You’ll visit Byodoin Temple, participate in a tea ceremony at Taihoan, and explore Uji Shrine and Ujigami Shrine. Reviewers like Kina and Katsuhiko highlight the insightful storytelling and authentic experience of the tea ceremony. The tour’s relaxed pace and focus on cultural storytelling make it suitable for history and tea enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for those wanting history, spirituality, and tea in one package.

9. Uji: UNESCO Heritage & Tea Ceremony Walking Tour

For about $78, this walking tour offers a combination of heritage sites and an authentic tea ceremony. You’ll explore Byodoin Temple, cross scenic bridges, and learn about Uji’s significance in Japanese culture. Guests recommend the knowledgeable guide and the interactive tea experience. The tour provides a relaxed exploration suited for culture and history fans.
Bottom Line: An engaging, culturally rich walk perfect for those wanting to understand Uji’s spiritual roots.

10. Experience Authentic Japanese Home Cooking in Kyoto

This hands-on cooking class introduces you to Japanese culinary basics. Over a session in an over-100-year-old townhouse, you’ll learn how to prepare dishes with bonito flakes, kelp, and additive-free seasonings. It’s perfect for food lovers who want practical skills and a taste of local life. The instructor provides personalized coaching, making it an authentic cultural experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies seeking a practical, immersive cooking lesson.

11. Using Upcycled Matcha! Making Smokeless Matcha Incense

An unusual but delightful activity, this incense-making uses upcycled matcha to create smokeless incense that warms without ash. The process involves wooden molds and eco-friendly techniques, making it a creative, sustainable experience. The tour lasts about an hour, and is great for those interested in Japanese craft and environmental activities. Guests appreciate the novelty and relaxing aroma of tea-based incense.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re into DIY crafts and eco-conscious activities with a Japanese twist.

12. 7 Hours Private Guided Tour Uji and Wazuka Matcha Farm

This very comprehensive, 7-hour private tour is tailored for true matcha aficionados. Led by Masae, you’ll visit local farms, taste delicately crafted Bento, and learn the full story of matcha’s production. The tour offers personalized insights and hands-on experiences like tea and matcha tasting, along with a full exploration of Wazuka’s natural beauty. Past travelers call it “almost a once-in-a-lifetime” experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want to deeply understand and taste Japan’s finest matcha.

13. Kyoto: Discover Uji’s Two Hidden World Heritage Treasures

This short but rich 2-hour tour uncovers Uji’s lesser-known UNESCO sites like Ujibashi Bridge, Uji Shrine, and Ujigami Shrine. Led by a professional guide, you’ll hear stories behind these historic landmarks and enjoy peaceful walks. Reviewers praise its insightful commentary and the chance to see Japan’s oldest shrine structure. It’s perfect for travelers interested in history, architecture, and local stories.
Bottom Line: An ideal quick immersion into Uji’s hidden cultural treasures.

14. Kyoto: Enjoy Byodoin Temple and Tea Sweets – 90 Min Tour

A compact 90-minute experience, this short tour introduces you to Byodoin Temple’s Phoenix Hall and Uji’s famous tea sweets. It’s a quick yet enriching way to enjoy Uji’s heritage and culinary delights. Reviewers love the informative guide and tasting opportunities. Best suited for travelers with limited time or those wanting a quick cultural fix.
Bottom Line: A perfect brief overview for first-time visitors or busy travelers.

15. Kyoto: Tea Museum and Tsuen Teahouse Guided Tour

Finally, the Tea Museum and Tsuen Teahouse experience offers a deep dive into tea’s cultural significance in Japan. You’ll visit a historic teahouse and learn about tea cultivation and processing, with insights from a local guide. The tour is suitable for those interested in traditional Japanese tea practices and culinary history. It’s a straightforward, educational experience that leaves you with a better understanding of Japan’s tea identity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a cultural and educational perspective on Japanese tea.

How to Choose the Best Uji Tour for You

When selecting a tour, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re passionate about learning how matcha is made, the Kyoto: Tea Museum Tickets and Matcha Grinding Experience offers a hands-on taste of tea craftsmanship for just $24. Want a comprehensive cultural day? The Uji: Green Tea Tour with Byodoin and Koshoji is a solid choice for history and temple visits in 4 hours. For those craving full immersion into matcha farming and tasting, the 7 Hours Private Guided Tour is unbeatable if you don’t mind a longer day.

Consider walking or cycling tours if you prefer active exploration, with options like the Slow Cycling Tour offering a leisurely way to see the scenery. For a shorter but engaging experience, the 90-minute Byodoin and tea sweets tour fits well into a busy schedule. Check availability and book early—Uji’s tours tend to fill up, especially during peak cherry blossom or fall foliage seasons.

Final Thoughts

Uji offers a rich selection of tours that cater to history buffs, tea lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you prefer a hands-on matcha workshop, a peaceful temple walk, or a scenic bike ride, there’s something to match your travel style. For a truly memorable experience, try combining a cultural walk with a matcha tasting or temple visit.

If you’re planning your trip, consider your interests and time constraints—a half-day tour might suffice if you’re short on time, but a full private day with Wazuka farm visits will satisfy those wanting a deep dive. Whatever you choose, Uji’s charm and history are waiting to be discovered, so book early and enjoy the journey.