Uji Tea

Uji is known as the birthplace of Japanese green tea, with a tea history that dates back as far as the 8th century. Tea cultivation flourished during the Kamakura Period (1192–1333), when the Zen priest Eisai introduced tea seeds and taught local people how to grow and prepare tea. Over the centuries, Uji developed into one of Japan’s most famous tea-producing regions, recognized worldwide for its high-quality matcha and sencha. Today, visitors can fully immerse themselves in this rich tea heritage by sampling matcha-flavored soba noodles, enjoying delicate Japanese sweets, and relaxing at charming riverside tea houses that reflect the area’s deep-rooted tea culture.

For those seeking interactive experiences, Uji offers a variety of hands-on tea activities. At Taihoan Tea House, guests can participate in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony, learning proper etiquette while enjoying freshly prepared matcha. Fukujuen Ujicha Kobo invites visitors to try matcha grinding, using traditional stone mills to create powdered tea from carefully selected leaves. At Takumi no Yakata, certified instructors guide participants through the art of brewing the perfect cup, accompanied by seasonal Japanese sweets. Together, these experiences allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Uji’s centuries-old tea traditions and appreciate the craftsmanship that has made Uji tea famous worldwide.