Activity Information
A tea experience at Sakai, a town with a deeply rooted tea culture
Nishiomeikouen Chaho was founded in 1854 during the final years of the Edo Period. The store owns a tea factory in Uji where they select and process the tea leaves sourced directly form the farmers. The tea lining the store shelves creates a special environment for your experience.
Make matcha from tea leaves by hand using a millstone under the guidance of the fifth generation head of the family
Use an authentic tea mill with the approximate diameter of 30cm to grind down the tea leaves into a fine matcha powder. Experience both the sheer weight of the mill and the hardships our ancestors had to overcome to fully understand and appreciate how valuable the matcha powder tea really is.
Use the freshly ground matcha tea powder to make a cup of tea on the spot
The fresh matcha powder tea ground on the stone mill is so fine that none of it remains behind in your mouth.
Even if you have never made matcha tea before, the owner of the store will gently guide you through the process so you do not have to worry about anything at all.
Learn how to properly brew a delicious cup of sencha tea
Learn all you need to know to brew the perfect cup of tea, from the correct water temperature and amount of tea leaves to pouring methodsand techniques. Whether you are entertaining guests or just looking for a way to make your day a little bit special, the skills you pick up here will find their place in your daily life.
Enjoy a refreshing moment as you discuss all things tea with the store owner. The store also offers chocolates and jams made with tea, a perfect souvenir from your travels.
Explore the numerous tourist spots of Sakai after the tour
Nishiomeikouen Chaho where the experience takes place is located in the middle of the historical area of Sakai. There are many fascinating spots to explore in the vicinity, including but not limited to Sakai Plaza of Rikyu and Akiko, countless shrines, temples, historical landmarks, long-established sweets stores and more. The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll after the experience. Furthermore, the tram stop on the main street offers you easy access to other parts of Sakai for you to explore as well.