Uplifting Kyoto: Tour of Uji's Tea, Shrines, and Natural Spirituality

Join us for a delightful day trip to Uji, a hidden gem just a short train ride from Kyoto, where the beauty of traditional tea culture comes alive. With a friendly local guide by your side, you'll be whisked away on a 17-minute journey from JR Kyoto Station, or in under 30 minutes if you're coming from Keihan Gion Shijo Station. Imagine a place where time slows down, nestled among gentle hills and meandering rivers, and where every sip of tea is a taste of perfection.

Uji welcomes you with its cozy small-town feel, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto's city center. Spend your morning diving into the fascinating world of tea, learning its rituals and secrets. Then, as the day unfolds, join us on a culinary adventure through Kyoto's best-kept secrets, enjoying an evening of fun and flavors in the traditional tachinomi (stand-and-drink) style. It's your chance to experience the true heart of our local culture, visiting spots we adore and sharing moments that you'll treasure. Let's make memories together in Uji's enchanting landscape!

Tour Highlights

• Explore the serene Byodo-in Temple

• Participate in a traditional tea ceremony

• Visit the historic Koshoji Temple

• Enjoy the expertise of a local guide

• Optional matcha stone grinding experience

• Customizable pickup from your location

What's Included

• Entry to Byodo-in Temple

• Guided tea ceremony

• Entry to Koshoji Temple

• All guide fees

What’s Extra

• Matcha stone grinding (optional add-on)

• Central Kyoto pickup: 8,000 yen for the group

• Extension: 4,000 yen/hour (pre-arrange)

Tour Itinerary

Exploring Tea and Sweets in Uji

Dive into the heart of Kyoto's tea culture with a guided exploration of Uji's finest teas and traditional sweets. This segment of our journey immerses you in the rich flavors and history of the area's renowned tea, with tastings that delight the senses. We'll wander through charming streets, visiting shops that have perfected their craft over generations.

Duration: 75 minutes

Byodo-in Temple Discovery

Step into the world of Byodo-in, a temple that's not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also a pinnacle of religious, architectural, and historical significance. Here, you'll uncover the essence of the Pure Land Buddhist sect and explore an intriguing museum filled with artifacts. The temple's striking architecture against the backdrop of lush gardens offers a tranquil retreat.

Duration: 60 minutes

Stroll Along the Uji River

Our journey continues with a leisurely walk by the Uji River, where the scenery tells stories of ancient fishing traditions and riverside rituals. As we meander, learn about the cormorant fishing method, admire the mix of sacred and secular structures, and if you choose, participate in a hands-on tea-making session. This part of the tour is as enriching as it is picturesque.

Duration: 45+ minutes (varies with matcha grinding option)

Neighborhood Wander and Snacks

With any remaining time, we embrace the spontaneity of our tour, taking leisurely strolls through Uji's quaint neighborhoods. This is a chance to soak in local life, hear more stories, and enjoy casual snacking on local delicacies. It's the perfect way to round off our cultural expedition before we guide you back to the train station for your journey home.

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved

• Most of the tour is outdoors; dress appropriately for the weather

• Itinerary adjustments may occur if usual stops are unexpectedly closed

• This is a small group tour ensuring a personalized experience

• Tour includes exquisite tea tasting and snacks

• Admission fees to all tour sites are covered

• Duration is approximately 4 hours

• The tour accommodates up to 8 people for an intimate experience

• First child joins free, additional children at half price or less

Meeting Point

Choose between JR Uji Station or Keihan Uji Station for our starting point, based on your convenience. If you're unsure, let us know your departure point, and we'll recommend the best option for you. Keep in mind, the JR pass does not cover the Keihan line, but the cost for this part of the journey is minimal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear for the tour?

Comfort is key for our tour, as there will be a good amount of walking. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and dressing according to the weather since much of our time will be spent outdoors. Layers are always a good idea to accommodate changing conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Absolutely! Our tour is family-friendly, and we welcome participants of all ages. The first child per group joins for free, and additional children are eligible for a discount. Please let us know the ages of any children accompanying you so we can make the necessary arrangements.

Can the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, we can cater to most dietary restrictions with advance notice. Please inform us of any specific needs when you book the tour, and we will do our best to accommodate you during the tea tasting and snack portions of the tour.

What happens if it rains?

Our tour goes ahead, rain or shine. We recommend bringing an umbrella or raincoat if rain is forecasted. In the case of extreme weather conditions that could affect the safety of our guests, we will reach out to you to discuss alternatives.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?

The tour price includes all tea tastings, snacks, and admission fees. However, transportation to the meeting point is not included. If you opt for the matcha grinding experience or any other add-ons, there may be additional costs, which we will clearly communicate beforehand.

How large are the tour groups?

To ensure a personalized experience, we keep our groups small, with a maximum of 8 participants. This allows for a more intimate exploration of Uji and its cultural offerings.

How do I get to the meeting point?

Once you've booked the tour, we'll provide detailed instructions on how to reach the chosen meeting point, whether it's JR Uji Station or Keihan Uji Station. We're also happy to recommend the best route from your location if you provide us with that information.

Related Read: 10 Best Day Trips from Kyoto in 2024