KyotoSightseeingFood experiencesCulture and history

    Uji, more than tea

    By InsideOutJapanProduct code 461758P46
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    Duration

    4 hours

    Ticket type

    Mobile Only

    Languages

    English, Italian

    Confirmation

    Instant

    Meeting point

    Meeting point provided

    Time zone

    Asia/Tokyo

    Why Travelers Love This

    4 hoursMobile tickets

    Overview

    Experience the enchanting world of Uji with our Uji More Than Tea. This journey invites you to explore the rich tapestry of Uji's tea culture and its historical gems. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its elegant Phoenix Hall. Explore the lush gardens and the tranquil surroundings that have inspired poets and artists for centuries. Delve into the world of Uji's tea heritage taking part in an optional tea ceremony and tasting a cup of local tea. We will share the significance of Uji's tea culture, providing insights into the timeless art of tea-making. Whether you're a tea enthusiast or a traveler seeking cultural enrichment, this tour promises an authentic and enlightening experience. **Rain, shine, or a bit of both— our walking tours still go on!** VERY IMPORTANT: The Travel Storyteller will confirm the tea ceremony's availability to participants a few days before the tour.

    What's Included

    Included

    Other

    English or Italian speaking travel story teller

    Not included

    Other

    Public transportation: if you do not hold JR Pass, about 500 JPY; if you hold JR Pass, no expenses

    Other

    Entrance fee (about 700 JPY)

    Other

    Optional tea ceremony (about 1,500 JPY) - subject to availability

    Meeting and Pickup

    Meeting point

    In front of the 7-Eleven located outside the main entrance of JR Kyoto Station. Travel Story Teller will wait for you showing a nameboard with “IOJ Logo” on it.

    End point

    In front of the 7-Eleven located outside the main entrance of JR Kyoto Station. Travel Story Teller will wait for you showing a nameboard with “IOJ Logo” on it.

    Itinerary

    Standard4 hours
    1

    Stop 1

    30 minutesAdmission not included

    Kyoto - Uji by train Transportation fees (not included): about 240 JPY

    2

    Stop 2

    45 minutesAdmission not included

    The Byodoin temple is architecturally based on the Buddhist movement of Jodo (Pure Land). Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple is now depicted on the back of 10JPY coins and identified as one of Japan's most recognized historical buildings. Iconic is its Phoenix Hall, named for its shape and the two phoenix statues on the roof. Admission fees (not included): about 700JPY

    3

    Stop 3

    20 minutes

    The Uji River flows through the city. It is one of the most popular spots in Uji, as it is the protagonist of most of the events that take place annually, such as day cruises and cormorant fishing.

    4

    Stop 4

    20 minutes

    Officially known as Byodoin Omotesando, it is the picturesque shopping street that connects Uji Station to the Byodoin Temple. This street offers total immersion through the rich tea culture and the local architecture. The walk along Byodoin Omotesando is enriched by the aroma of freshly roasted tea leaves

    5

    Stop 5

    1 hourAdmission not included

    Optional ceremony in a traditional tea house, followed by tasting of matcha green tea and a homemade mochi sweet. Admission fees (not included): about 1000JPY

    6

    Stop 6

    35 minutes

    A shrine built to commemorate an ancient prince of the past. It is said to be one of the few ancient sanctuaries left untouched in the whole territory, and therefore preserves the atmosphere of the ancient past. The basin in the area is filled with water from a freshwater spring. The same water is used to prepare tea during ceremonies and is said to have special properties.

    7

    Stop 7

    30 minutesAdmission not included

    Uji - Kyoto by train Transportation fees (not included): about 240 JPY

    Additional Info

    No Back Problems

    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

    No Pregnant

    Not recommended for pregnant travelers

    No Heart Problems

    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

    Physical Medium

    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

    Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

    Policy type

    Standard

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

    Refund eligibility

    100% refundable 1+ days before

    Refund eligibility

    0% refundable 0-1 days before

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