One of the memorable experiences you can have while traveling through Japan is discovering the tea culture. There are centuries of cultural tradition and precision in its craftsmanship, from its cultivation and preparation to its rituals of serving family and guests. It’s essential that there are university-level classes and certifications available to become a tea advisor or a tea master.

This was provided to me by D-Matcha, a family-owned tea farm right in the heart of Wazuka Village. Not only were they very hospitable, but they also had a wealth of knowledge to share. There is a great deal of dedication and passion for revitalizing this community and the green tea industry here.

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Where is Wazuka Village

Located 90 minutes outside of Kyoto in the Japanese countryside, the drive here is a splendid respite as you get out of the city. It’s all scenic views, with the backdrop of rolling hills and fields of lush greenery. This mountain village is a tea paradise. The Kyoto region is primarily known for producing some of the finest green teas in Japan and for being one of the best destinations to experience them.

You can find plenty of local tea ceremony experiences. However, they only focus on part of the experience, mostly involving dressing in kimonos or wearing regular clothing, preparing matcha with treats in a private tea room, and having an expert tea master instruct you on the proper handling and pouring techniques. Here, you get to see it from start to finish.

Part of your tour will involve walking through this community, from the local shrine to the neighboring farmers. You will learn, sadly, how it is shrinking in the wake of years of economic and technological changes. Most farmers are now older adults and seniors, with a declining population as younger generations seek employment in major cities. Farms have been abandoned, and revitalization efforts are underway to attract students and young adults to help revive the tea farming industry.

What You Will Learn

Tea Varieties

In Japan, the tea culture is almost entirely centered around green tea. However, there are several options to choose from. Each primary type has its list of grades and sub-varieties. Flavor, color, and smell are all different characteristics you will learn to notice. For a final taste, these can make or break it. Factors such as climate and time of growth are also taken into account.

• Sencha – The most popular and common green tea in Japan. It’s used daily by cafes, restaurants, at home, and in casual tea ceremonies and gatherings. Easy to produce and maintain, its freshness allows you to purchase it almost anywhere.
• Matcha – Iconic and known the world over. Specifically, the leaves are ground into a powder, and they’re used as a popular ingredient in sweets, baked goods, and caffeinated products.
• Gyokuru – A higher-grade specialty green tea. Grown in the shade for a deeper and smoother flavor. It is best used on special occasions.
• Hojicha – This green tea is roasted, resulting in a nutty flavor. It pairs well with sweets and desserts, as well as traditional Japanese dishes like yakitori or fish.
• Genmaicha – Blended with roasted brown rice, it has a mellow and savory flavor.
• Bancha – Made from older leaves that produce an earthy, lower-grade quality, resulting in a common tea found nearly everywhere. Most tea beginners should start with this.
• Kukicha – After the leaves are separated for Sencha and Gyokuru, the remaining parts of the tea plant are used to produce this low-caffeine blend.

Regardless of your choice of Japanese green tea, the health benefits remain the same. They help improve your immunity through antioxidants, reduce stress, keep your mind sharp, and promote better sleep. Sticking to a regular tea schedule can significantly improve your overall body and mind.

Sustainable Farming

The reason your green tea is so rich in taste is due to the sustainable farming practices employed. Most of the tea found in Japan is not farmed organically, but there are those looking to change that. Your guide will introduce you to the unique Japanese tea farming methods, including covered cultivation and the use of organic fertilizers. Conservation efforts are taken to ensure abundant harvests each year. You can even sign up to assist with picking the leaves and bringing them to the factory for processing.

Hands-On Tea Experiences

Brewing the Matcha

You’ll be making your bowl of matcha to enjoy as part of the experience. You’ll be shown the technique (it’s all in the wrist) by your guide before attempting it yourself.

Tea Tastings Flight

The tour will end with a sampling of different cultivations of Sencha and Matcha flavors. Use your senses and palette to compare the distinct flavor profiles and aromas for each organic blend. See which one best suits you to purchase in the gift shop to take home for yourself or to give to friends and family. Treat yourself to the homemade sweets and desserts made with fresh tea ingredients.

Bed & Breakfast Extra

If you want to stay overnight, they offer a bed and breakfast option at a renovated home with modern amenities. Your room will overlook the fields of green leaves and be located next to the community Hakusan Shrine. All the meals served are made with locally sourced ingredients. There are also other activities you can book in advance, such as hiking, e-biking, and a cooking class for noodles and desserts. This is an option for couples looking for a romantic getaway as part of their Japan travels.

Conclusion

After having this experience, you will have a much deeper appreciation for the work that went into it. It’s a genuine journey from start to finish, not just a brief tasting with no learning behind it. You will see what a tea enthusiast is really like in a friendly and informal setting that will be memorable.