Overview

This tour is a traditional tea picking experience of green tea in Sayama in Saitama Prefecture located northwest of Tokyo,
It is a one day tour for a limited time from May to November where you can enjoy walking along the old town in Kawagoe where traditional townscapes remain.

The Sayama Hills are located in the western part of Saitama Prefecture. It is the origin of "Sayama Tea". Sayama tea is regarded as one of Japan's three major teas alongside Shizuoka tea and Uji tea, and because of its northern location, the leaves produce a deep taste after fighting through the cold winters.

Kawagoe flourished as a castle town from the 17th century, and was often compared to Edo (present day Tokyo). Because of this, it came to be called "small Edo". The first area where the buildings were erected is known as the "townscape of the storehouses", a site that was seen less and less in Edo Tokyo. The Kawagoe area retains many traditional Japanese culture history not seen in other cities, such as the old Edo architecture, the sound of ringing bells from the old bell tower, and mysterious side streets and back alleys that still have rickshaw’s running through them.

The tour schedule:

① Meet at Iriso Station (10:00)
On the day of the tour, meet with the guide at 9:30 at the east entrance of the Iriso Station in order to head for the Sayama tea plantation "Miyano" via the pick-up car. Miyano Plantation was founded in 1869. There you can enjoy picking tea leaves while wearing a traditional "tea girl costume" in the open tea fields. Afterwards, you can savor the fruits of your labor along with freshly picked tea leaf tempura. It is a truly special cup from farm to table prepared by you. For a separate fee, Matcha sweets and other tea products are for sale at the plantation for any who wish to purchase them.

② Get ready and learn some tea-picking tips (10:00-10:15)
Get dressed in your tea plantation clothing and hear some tips for how to pick tea leaves from the master.

③ Tea Picking (10:20-10:50)
Participants will experience tea picking at Miyanoen's tea plantation. Each group will be assigned to a tea picking spot. After the tea picking experience, the owner of Miyanoen will take a commemorative photo with your phone.

④ Tea Leaf Making (10:55-11:20)
Tea leaf making will be conducted under the guidance of Miyanoen's owner. To make a delicious tea leaf, it takes time and patience for the tea leaves to dry completely, as they are steamed at a low temperature and gently rubbed repeatedly. The tea leaves will be ready after about 10 times of steaming. The original tea leaves can be packaged and taken home as a souvenir. During the experience, you can ask the owner questions about tea growing and brewing.

⑤ Tasting Tea Leaf Tempura (11:20-11:40)
Tea leaf tempura will be served. Please note that this is a small portion and does not include white rice, etc., and is not a substitute for lunch. You can have Sayama-cha and Hojicha tea from the self-service tea machine.

⑥ Kitain Temple (12:40-13:25)
Nestled in the heart of Kawagoe, Kita-in Temple offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Japan's rich history and spiritual heritage. Renowned for its exquisite architecture and serene gardens, the temple is home to the only remaining structures of the original Edo Castle. As you wander through the temple grounds, you'll encounter the enchanting Gohyaku Rakan statues, each with its own unique expression, and the tranquil beauty of the main hall.

⑦ Hikawa Shrine (14:35-14:45)
Hikawa Shrine in Kawagoe is a sacred site that has been a cornerstone of spiritual life in the area for over 1,500 years. Known for its enchanting wind chimes during summer and the romantic atmosphere that draws couples seeking blessings for love, Hikawa Shrine offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Explore the ancient traditions and tranquil ambiance of the shrine, and let its history and spirituality enrich your journey through Kawagoe.

⑧ The Warehouse District (14:45-15:25)
Explore the Kawagoe old town and local food scene dating back to the Edo period. There is a 250 year old Matsumoto Soy Sauce companies factory where you will be able to witness the traditional manufacturing process of soy sauce (open on certain days only). You will also visit Kashiya Yokochō, otherwise known as "Candy Alley". 20 old-fashioned sweet shops remain on this street, each selling their own traditional Japanese candies.

⑨ Koedo Kurari (15:35-15:50)
Located in a former sake brewery, Koedo Kurari offers a unique blend of history and local culture. Sample a variety of local sake, browse artisanal crafts, and savor traditional sweets, all while soaking in the nostalgic ambiance of "Little Edo."

⑩ Finish the tour at Honkawagoe station or Kawagoe station (16:00)