Uji Tea Museum, Uji - Image 1
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Uji Tea Museum

4.1
·745 reviews·Uji, Japan

Discover Uji's rich tea heritage at the Chazuna Tea Museum, where you can grind your own matcha and explore centuries of tea culture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene experience.

CrowdLow
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Uji Tea Museum, Uji - Image 1

Uji Tea Museum

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene experience.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Uji's rich tea heritage at the Chazuna Tea Museum, where you can grind your own matcha and explore centuries of tea culture.

4.1
(745 reviews)

"Grind your own matcha and learn the art of tea preparation – an unforgettable experience!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Workshops Early

Matcha grinding workshops are popular! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot. :ticket:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing some walking around Uji town to explore other sights. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Matcha Grinding Workshop

Matcha Grinding Workshop

Chazuna Museum

Grind your own matcha powder using traditional stone mills and learn the art of tea preparation. A hands-on, unforgettable experience.

TikTokInstagram+1
Uji Tea History Exhibits

Uji Tea History Exhibits

Uji Tea Museum

Discover the fascinating history of Uji tea, from its origins to its cultural significance. Informative displays for all visitors.

Reddit
Matcha Soba and Desserts

Matcha Soba and Desserts

Museum Restaurant

Savor delicious matcha-infused dishes, including soba noodles and delightful desserts, at the museum's restaurant.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Matcha Workshop in Advance

The popular matcha grinding workshops at the Uji Tea Museum fill up quickly. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons. TikTokInstagram

Uji: More Than Just Matcha

While the Uji Tea Museum is a highlight, Uji offers a rich cultural experience. Explore the historic Byodo-in Temple, stroll across the Uji Bridge, and discover other tea houses and shops for a complete day trip. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene experience.
Crowd
Low
When
Golden Hour
Why
Beautiful light for photos.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Vanessa Huynh if you’re in uji make sure to stop by chazuna tea museum! 🍵🎋 #japan #tokyo #kyoto #osaka #japantiktok #japanesefood #japanfood #japaneats #matcha #matchalatte #matchashortage #matchapowder #uji #matcharecipe
@kellerrzzz
8.7K likes • 83.1K views

🎯 Book Workshops Early

Matcha grinding workshops are popular! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot. TikTokInstagram :ticket:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing some walking around Uji town to explore other sights. :athletic_shoe:

Best Experience in Kyoto: Grind Your Own Matcha As a matcha enthusiast, my dream came true in Uji, the matcha capital of Japan. Learning about the tea-making process and grinding my own matcha with a traditional stone mill was an unforgettable experience. It's a must-do for anyone visiting Kyoto, and at only $15, it's a steal! #matchalover #ujikyoto #matchacapital #matchamaking #matchaworkshop #ky...
@thatannette
1.8K likes • 77.2K views
booking a matcha milling workshop was one of my favourite experiences and we did ours through Chazuna Musuem! Workshop Name: Tea Museum Tickets and Matcha Grinding Experience Cost: ¥2,600 Location: Tea Museum and Uji Town Community Center, Chazuna (Maruyama-203-1 Todo, Uji, Kyoto 611-0013, Japan) I booked directly on the museum website but you can also book through GetYourGuide 🙂‍↕️ #matcha #ma...
anivaalu
398 likes • 13.4K views

🍵 Taste the Local Matcha

Don't miss trying authentic matcha treats and drinks in Uji, the matcha capital! TikTokInstagram :ice_cream:

📸 Capture the Scenery

Uji offers picturesque views, especially along the river and at Byodo-in Temple. :camerawithflash:

Matcha Capital of the World 🍵💚 📌 Save these 7 Things to do in Uji, Japan 🚂 Approx 30 minute train ride from Kyoto Station 1. Matcha Grinding Experience at📍Chazuna Museum (¥2000 per person) 2. World’s oldest tea house (📍Tsuen Tea - founded in 1160) 3. Byodo-in Omotesando (Shopping Street) 4. Byodo-in Temple 5. Uji Bridge & River 6. Asahiyaki Shop & Gallery (Pottery) 7. Temples & Shrines 📍Uji S...
feastonit_
1K likes • 58.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Workshops Early

Matcha grinding workshops are popular! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot. TikTokInstagram :ticket:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing some walking around Uji town to explore other sights. :athletic_shoe:

🍵 Taste the Local Matcha

Don't miss trying authentic matcha treats and drinks in Uji, the matcha capital! TikTokInstagram :ice_cream:

📸 Capture the Scenery

Uji offers picturesque views, especially along the river and at Byodo-in Temple. :camerawithflash:

📍 Easy Day Trip from Kyoto

Uji is a convenient day trip from Kyoto, about a 30-minute train ride. TikTokInstagram+1 :train2:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(745 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Uji Tea Museum for its engaging matcha grinding workshops and informative exhibits on tea history. The opportunity to create and enjoy your own matcha is a major highlight, alongside the delicious matcha-infused food options available at the museum restaurant. While some find the museum itself to be on the smaller side, the overall experience is highly recommended for its cultural immersion and hands-on activities. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

"Bought ticket for 600 JPY to see the display rooms. They provided detail information on history of Uji tea. They also provide gift shop and restaurant. I ordered matcha soba and cute matcha dessert in the restaurant. This place is well located near Uji station. Near the building they also have small tea plantations. The one without shelter were for Senchai tea meanwhile the one which have shelter were for Matcha tea"

agtifa primadani

"Its either you come here for the tea and matcha ceremony or Hibike Euphonium pilgrimage.

I am the second one!

This place is filled with hibike spots all over and i come here particularly for kumiko 10th anniversary man hole!

This place is catered for everyone with all different purpose and i feel like this place is so cozy especially in scorching summer heat."

H W

"We had a one hour lesson on tea history and tea making. Very fun! We get to grind our own matcha, make it, then drink it afterwards. Recommended!"

Miguel Taneres

What People Like

Matcha grinding workshop
Informative tea history
Delicious matcha treats

What People Dislike

Museum size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Uji Tea Museum is easily accessible from Kyoto. Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Uji Station, which takes about 30 minutes. From Uji Station, it's a short walk to the museum. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Uji is well-connected by public transport. You can reach it via JR trains or Keihan trains, making it a convenient destination for a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka. TikTokInstagram

Many visitors explore Uji on foot, especially if they are visiting multiple tea houses and the Byodo-in Temple. Comfortable shoes are a must! TikTokInstagram

While driving is possible, parking in Uji can be limited. Public transportation is generally the most convenient option for tourists. TikTok

There are no specific shuttle services directly to the Uji Tea Museum, but the town is compact and walkable from the train stations. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the museum's display rooms is around 600 JPY. The popular matcha grinding workshops have separate fees, typically around ¥2,000 to ¥2,600 per person. InstagramReddit+2

While general museum entry might not require advance booking, the highly recommended matcha grinding workshops are very popular and should be booked in advance online to secure your spot. TikTokInstagram

A standard museum ticket typically grants access to the display rooms showcasing the history of Uji tea. Workshops and special experiences have separate costs. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely available, but booking workshops in advance is the best way to ensure you can participate in these popular experiences. TikTokInstagram

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram

🎫 🍵 Onsite Experience

You can explore exhibits on Uji tea history, participate in a matcha grinding workshop, enjoy matcha-flavored treats at the restaurant, and visit the gift shop. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! Travelers rave about the hands-on experience of grinding their own matcha and learning about tea preparation. It's considered a must-do. TikTokInstagram+4

Yes, the Uji Tea Museum has a gift shop where you can purchase various matcha powders, tea sets, and other tea-related souvenirs. InstagramReddit

While some exhibits might be in Japanese, the hands-on workshops are often guided in a way that's understandable, and the visual displays are engaging. Reddit

Yes, there are small tea plantations near the museum, offering a glimpse into where the tea is grown. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum has a restaurant where you can enjoy matcha-infused dishes like matcha soba noodles and various matcha desserts. Reddit

Uji is the matcha capital of Japan, so you'll find plenty of opportunities to try authentic matcha, from lattes to traditional whisked tea, both at the museum and in town. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the surrounding Uji town has numerous cafes and restaurants offering local specialties and, of course, more matcha-themed treats. TikTokInstagram

Dining prices in Uji are generally reasonable, especially for the quality of matcha products you'll find. The museum restaurant offers good value. Reddit

Look out for matcha ice cream, parfaits, cakes, and mochi. Many cafes and shops in Uji offer these delicious treats. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The museum itself, the small tea plantations nearby, and the matcha grinding process offer great photo opportunities. The surrounding Uji town also has scenic spots. InstagramReddit

Photography rules can vary for exhibits. It's best to check for signage or ask staff. However, the matcha workshop and restaurant areas are generally fine for photos. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons (golden hour) offer beautiful lighting for photography, with fewer crowds. Instagram

Yes, the Uji Bridge, Byodo-in Temple, and the scenic riverbanks are iconic photo locations in Uji. TikTokInstagram

Yes, participants are usually encouraged to take photos and videos of their matcha grinding and preparation experience. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Uji Tea Museum offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The matcha grinding workshop is particularly fun for children, allowing them to get hands-on with the process. The museum's exhibits are visually interesting, and the restaurant offers kid-friendly matcha treats like ice cream. TikTokReddit+1

Beyond the museum, Uji town provides open spaces like the riverbanks and the grounds of Byodo-in Temple for children to explore. Consider a picnic lunch by the river for a relaxed family outing. The overall atmosphere of Uji is calm and welcoming, making it a pleasant destination for a family day trip. TikTokInstagram

🍵 Tea Enthusiasts & Connoisseurs

For true tea lovers, Uji is a pilgrimage. The Uji Tea Museum provides deep insights into the history and cultivation of matcha. Beyond the museum, seek out traditional tea houses like Tsuen Tea for an authentic tea ceremony experience. InstagramReddit

Don't miss the opportunity to sample and purchase high-grade matcha directly from renowned tea producers in Uji. Many shops offer tastings, allowing you to compare different varieties and find your favorite. The matcha grinding workshop is also a must-do for a hands-on understanding of matcha preparation. TikTokInstagram+1

🌸 Day-Trippers from Kyoto

Uji is an ideal day trip destination from Kyoto, easily reachable by a short train ride (approx. 30 minutes). The Uji Tea Museum is a perfect starting point to understand the region's significance. TikTokInstagram+1

Combine your museum visit with a stroll across the Uji Bridge, a visit to the stunning Byodo-in Temple, and perhaps a tasting at a local tea shop. This allows you to experience the essence of Uji without needing an overnight stay. Aim to go early to make the most of your time. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Matcha Grinding

The matcha grinding workshop at the Uji Tea Museum is a highlight for many visitors. This hands-on experience allows you to use traditional stone mills to grind tea leaves into fine matcha powder. It's not just about the process; it's about understanding the dedication and skill involved in creating high-quality matcha. TikTokInstagram+1

Participants often describe the workshop as fun, educational, and deeply rewarding. You'll learn about the different types of matcha, the importance of the grinding stone's speed and temperature, and how to properly whisk your freshly ground matcha into a delicious beverage. The instructors are typically very friendly and helpful, making the experience accessible even for beginners. Instagram+2

This immersive activity offers a tangible connection to Japan's rich tea culture and is a perfect souvenir in itself – the knowledge and the matcha you create! It's highly recommended to book this experience in advance as it's a popular activity. TikTokInstagram

Uji: The Matcha Capital of Japan

Uji, located just south of Kyoto, is renowned as the birthplace of matcha and the heart of Japan's green tea production. For centuries, Uji has been synonymous with high-quality tea, particularly matcha and gyokuro. The region's ideal climate, fertile soil, and generations of expertise contribute to its esteemed reputation. TikTokInstagram+1

The Uji Tea Museum (Chazuna) serves as a gateway to understanding this legacy. It delves into the history, cultivation, and cultural significance of Uji tea. Beyond the museum, the town itself is a living testament to its tea heritage, with numerous historic tea houses, shops, and even small tea fields dotting the landscape. InstagramReddit

Visiting Uji offers more than just a museum visit; it's a chance to immerse yourself in a centuries-old tradition. From participating in tea ceremonies to simply enjoying a perfectly brewed cup of matcha at a local cafe, Uji provides an authentic and enriching experience for any tea enthusiast or curious traveler. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the Museum: Exploring Uji Town

While the Uji Tea Museum is a primary draw, the surrounding town offers a wealth of attractions that complement the tea experience. A short walk from the museum leads you to the iconic Uji Bridge, a historic landmark that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. The riverbanks offer picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

No visit to Uji is complete without exploring Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning Phoenix Hall, which is depicted on the Japanese 10 yen coin. The temple grounds are beautifully maintained and offer a serene escape. Nearby, the Omotesando shopping street provides opportunities to purchase local crafts and, of course, more matcha products. Instagram

For those interested in the deeper history of tea, visiting Tsuen Tea, Japan's oldest tea house founded in 1160, is a must. Uji is also a popular spot for fans of the anime 'Sound! Euphonium,' with many filming locations scattered throughout the town, including specific manhole covers. TikTokInstagramReddit