Uji Tea Museum
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
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience.
Uji Tea Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience.

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.
"Grind your own matcha and learn the art of tea preparation – an unforgettable experience!"
🎯 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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.

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.
Matcha Soba and Desserts
Museum Restaurant
Savor delicious matcha-infused dishes, including soba noodles and delightful desserts, at the museum's restaurant.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Matcha Workshop in Advance
Uji: More Than Just Matcha
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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:
🍵 Taste the Local Matcha
Don't miss trying authentic matcha treats and drinks in Uji, the matcha capital! :ice_cream:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Uji offers picturesque views, especially along the river and at Byodo-in Temple. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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:
🍵 Taste the Local Matcha
Don't miss trying authentic matcha treats and drinks in Uji, the matcha capital! :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. :train2:
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Many visitors explore Uji on foot, especially if they are visiting multiple tea houses and the Byodo-in Temple. Comfortable shoes are a must!
While driving is possible, parking in Uji can be limited. Public transportation is generally the most convenient option for tourists.
There are no specific shuttle services directly to the Uji Tea Museum, but the town is compact and walkable from the train stations.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
A standard museum ticket typically grants access to the display rooms showcasing the history of Uji tea. Workshops and special experiences have separate costs.
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.
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.
🎫 🍵 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.
Absolutely! Travelers rave about the hands-on experience of grinding their own matcha and learning about tea preparation. It's considered a must-do.
Yes, the Uji Tea Museum has a gift shop where you can purchase various matcha powders, tea sets, and other tea-related souvenirs.
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.
Yes, there are small tea plantations near the museum, offering a glimpse into where the tea is grown.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum has a restaurant where you can enjoy matcha-infused dishes like matcha soba noodles and various matcha desserts.
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.
Yes, the surrounding Uji town has numerous cafes and restaurants offering local specialties and, of course, more matcha-themed treats.
Dining prices in Uji are generally reasonable, especially for the quality of matcha products you'll find. The museum restaurant offers good value.
Look out for matcha ice cream, parfaits, cakes, and mochi. Many cafes and shops in Uji offer these delicious treats.
📸 📸 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.
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.
Early mornings or late afternoons (golden hour) offer beautiful lighting for photography, with fewer crowds.
Yes, the Uji Bridge, Byodo-in Temple, and the scenic riverbanks are iconic photo locations in Uji.
Yes, participants are usually encouraged to take photos and videos of their matcha grinding and preparation experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🍵 Tea Enthusiasts & Connoisseurs
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.
🌸 Day-Trippers from Kyoto
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Matcha Grinding
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.
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.
Uji: The Matcha Capital of Japan
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.
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.
Beyond the Museum: Exploring Uji Town
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit