Another Side of Kyoto: Exploring Uji and Wazuka – Home of Japanese Green Tea
Joined 2023
This tour will show you a different side of Kyoto—peaceful, uncrowded, and surrounded by nature. We will explore the Uji area, often called the 'Kyoto of Green Tea,' where you can admire the breathtaking scenery of tea plantations. Along the way, we’ll visit Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as Shojyuin Temple, a small yet charming gem.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
- If you are staying at a hotel in Kyoto, I can pick you up directly from there. If you are coming from outside Kyoto, I will meet you at JR Kyoto Station.
Byodoin-Temple
Byodo-in Temple in Uji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its Phoenix Hall (Houou-do), a stunning 10th-century structure that appears to float over a reflecting pond. It’s featured on the Japanese 10-yen coin and is a masterpiece of Buddhist Pure Land architecture.
Shojuin Temple
Shojuin Temple in Ujitawara is known for its iconic heart-shaped window, symbolizing harmony and happiness. Surrounded by serene nature, the temple also features colorful ceiling paintings of seasonal flowers and wildlife, making it a picturesque and peaceful spot. This temple is small yet very charming and one of my personal favorites.
Town of Wazuka
Wazuka, located in southern Kyoto (Prefecture), is a small town renowned for its tea cultivation, particularly high-quality Uji tea. With over 800 years of tea-growing history, it offers picturesque landscapes of terraced tea fields and scenic countryside. In this area, we will go for a walk around the fields and enjoy the view. Also, we will have lunch in this area.
Ending Point
At your hotel in Kyoto ( Or JR Kyoto Station)
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Transportation between the sites (car driven by the guide, Honda Vezel 4 seaters),
Parking, gas, toll
Meals, Admission fees for temples, (For Byodoin Temple: 700 yen, approximately 4.5 USD, Shojuin Temples, 800 yen, approximately 5 UDS- Please bring cash since they only accept cash) , and Travel Insurance (The guide is not responsible for any accidents that may occur during the tour)
Tour Important Information
*In Wazuka, we will be walking quite a bit, though the paths are mostly flat and not very challenging. Please wear comfortable shoes. If you’d prefer to minimize the walking, let me know, and I can adjust the itinerary accordingly.
* Although my car can accommodate up to four passengers (excluding the driver), the rear seat may feel a bit small. If you have more than five people in your group, please let me know before making a reservation.
In case of bad weather, such as heavy rain, storms, typhoons, or snow, walking around Wazuka may not be ideal as there is little shelter available. If that happens, I will provide alternative options for your tour.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2023
About Tour Guide Kanae O.
Hello! I am Kanae, a nationally licensed guide. While working full-time as a lecturer at a local university in Kyoto, I have also been guiding for two years.
Born and raised in Kyoto, I am excited to share the beauty and culture of my hometown with my customers. Kyoto is an enchanting city, and even as a local, I am continually fascinated by its many charming spots. Whether it's the serene temples, vibrant markets, or hidden gems, there is always something new to explore and appreciate in this wonderful city.
Also, since my home is close to Shiga Prefecture, I am very familiar with the area. While Shiga may not be as popular as Kyoto, it offers a wealth of attractions for tourists. From historical sites such as temples and shrines to the stunning natural beauty of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, there is much to see and do. I am passionate about promoting Shiga and sharing its unique charm with visitors.
Reviews
Glenis G.
“Wonderful time with Kanae”
We had the most amazing day with Kanae. She was friendly and approachable and thoughtful. She was so knowledgeable about Kyoto and took us to Temples and Shrines that were not touristy and we were so appreciative of the peace and being able to experience the culture and history . Kanae constantly ensured that we were happy with the tour and would have changed some of the itinerary but everything was perfect . She made our day interesting as well ans relaxing and we have lovely memories of our time with her in Kyoto . Thank you so much.
Daniel G.
“Kyoto - Tokyo Shinkansen ”
The last thing I need whilst making my way from Kyoto to Tokyo, on a day I am going to fly, is anxiety. When Kanae met me at my hotel first thing in the morning, I was immediately at ease. Kanae was kind, full of smiles and professional. We made our way to Kyoto Station via taxi and Kanae assisted me in purchasing my bullet train tickets and Narita Express tickets. While accompanying me on the journey to Tokyo station, I was never more relaxed, being in the hands of a professional, in a country where English is not widely spoken. Kanae made sure I got on the Narita Express as we bid farewell.
Kanae O.
Daniel, thank you so much for your kind words. I'm really glad I could help make your travel day smooth and stress-free. Wishing you safe and happy travels always!
Bridget G.
“Incredible Sites and Perfect Guide!”
I cannot say enough good things about Kanae. From the moment she picked us up from the hotel, her warmth and professionalism was evident. The temples she took us to were all some of the most stunning temples we visited during our time in Japan, and all off the beaten path so no crowds. In fact, we were the only ones there at the first! Kanae is also incredibly knowledgable about the history and traditions at each temple. Afterwards, she took us to her favorite ramen spot in Kyoto and it did not disappoint... I'm still dreaming of the food I had there. Thank you so much, Kanae!
Kanae O.
Bridget,thank you so much for your kind and generous review. It truly means a lot. I’m so glad you enjoyed the peaceful temples and that the ramen hit the spot—it's one of my favorites too! Sharing these hidden gems with both of you was such a joy. I hope your memories of Japan stay with you for a long time, and maybe one day we’ll explore even more together! et,
$294/ per group
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