Tea is the most commonly drunk beverage in Japan and an important part of Japanese Food Culture. Green Tea is the most common type of tea and also the central element of the Tea Ceremony. Among the most well-known places for tea cultivation are Shizuoka, Kagoshima and Uji.
Tag: Tea
An Online Tea Ceremony Celebrating Japanese Craftsmanship
As closed borders and shelter-in-place restrictions continue to be in effect around the world, travelers and travel-related service providers alike are wondering, “What are some unique ways people can enjoy the pleasures of travel without leaving their homes?” I recently attended an event attempting to…
Learning the Lessons of Authentic Tea Ceremony in Tokyo
A traditional Japanese art, green tea tasting, meditation, awakening; so many terms used to define the Japanese tea ceremony or chadō (茶道 “path or way of tea”). But the essence of the tea ceremony can only be understood through experience. And, for my part, only…
Wisteria Tunnels of Senzai Park in Japan
It’s an indisputable fact that the Japanese people love their seasonal blossoms, and the yearly blooms of wisteria are no exception. Hot on the heels of the annual cherry blossoms in March, the woody vines of the fuji wisteria come into bloom during the last…
How to Wear a Kimono – With Step-by-Step Pictures and Video
Kimono are a traditional Japanese form of clothing worn by both men and women. Kimono is a garment that is uniquely Japanese; no other people group has a style of dress like it. Today, it is a common sight to see Japanese and foreign visitors…
Tea Ceremony in the Izumi Samurai Town
Izumi (Kagoshima prefecture) is a city with many surprises. After my experience staying in a traditional rural house and seeing the Izumi’s cranes, it was time to explore the samurai town. It was a complete immersion in Japanese culture: I took part in a Japanese…
Kyushu’s Culinary Secrets: Exploring the Essentials of Japanese Cuisine in Fukuoka Prefecture
Sponsored by Kyushu District Transport Bureau Japan’s mountainous landscape is made up of rich, volcanic soil which, combined with innovation and heritage, has given birth to some of the finest products in the country. The climate is mild and benefits from warm sea breezes, so…
Murakami City – Best Ways to Enjoy Fall Colors
Sponsored by Murakami City Located along the Sea of Japan about 4 hours from Tokyo is the small coastal city of Murakami. Rich in cultural arts, cuisine, and history this city is a perfect place for those looking to get off the beaten path and…
Saiki by Bicycle: Samurai and Zen Tea Experiences
Sponsored by Tourism Oita Saiki, coastal city in Oita prefecture Located in the southeast part of Oita Prefecture on Kyushu island, Saiki is a small coastal city well-known for its seafood culture and cuisine. Facing the Bungo Channel, Saiki benefits from its location as one…
Staying with a family of tea farmers in Higashisonogi
Sponsored by Higashisonogi Town. As you drive along the narrow countryside roads of Higashisonogi, among the terraced tea fields with the great blue sea visible in the distance, you cannot help but fall in love with this place. The breathtaking landscapes and delicious local green…
Discovering Green Tea Tourism in Higashisonogi
Sponsored by Higashisonogi Town. Most of you have probably heard about green tourism. But have you ever heard of green tea tourism? If green tea is one of your favorite drinks and you would like to escape to the countryside during a trip to Fukuoka…