JAPAN TEA TOUR 2025
"TEA AESTHETICS"
JAPAN TEA TOUR 2025
"TEA AESTHETICS"
Welcome to the Japan Tea Tour: A Journey Through Aesthetics
Dear Guests,
We are delighted to extend an exclusive invitation to you for our Japan Tea Tour, a one-of-a-kind experience dedicated to the profound and captivating aesthetics of Japanese tea culture. This journey is not just a tour but a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene beauty and meticulous craftsmanship that define the art of tea in Japan.
What is Japanese tea? Attempting to describe it with words is a complex task, as Japanese tea is paradoxical these days: while tea plays an important role in the culture, it is also hard to find high-quality tea on a daily basis. A lot of young people don’t even own a teapot and don’t know how to brew tea. Indeed, coffee is the country’s national drink, and the tea that most people consume is mass-produced bottled tea made with low quality leaves. Yes, it takes a bit of effort to find real tea in Japan, but thanks to your experience we will show you where it is!
To deepen one’s understanding of a tea culture, we think that the best way is to experience it directly at the source in the country. This is why we started to organise tea tours X years ago, and this approach might be especially true for Japanese tea. Japanese tea is a philosophical, artistic, sensory and esthetic experience that goes beyond the tea room and connects with different layers of the culture. It has influenced the history, the literature, the architecture, the relationship to nature, the cuisine, the work ethics, the human interactions, and much more! For centuries, Japan has fascinated other countries and continues to do so nowadays. Through the lens of tea, you will gain insights into the culture and reflect on your own.
Our tour will focus on Kyoto, former capital and traditional culture centre, and Uji (the birthplace of Japanese tea). To explore these slow cities, full of temples and surrounded by nature, is to walk the path of tea! During this tour we will cover different aspects of Japanese tea culture:
- Tea history: from its Chinese origins to its transformation into a unique product
- Tea leaves: different tea types, producing regions and processing methods, brewing methods
- The Way of Tea (tea ceremony): harmonious relationships and communication through nature, food and the arts
- Modern tea wisdom: conscious lifestyle and Japanese artisans
We believe that Japanese tea holds valuable knowledge for living a good and beautiful life. The broader understanding you will gain on this tour will also deepen your general appreciation of tea. It is our pleasure to serve as facilitators to share the world of Japanese tea with you!
This Tea Tour is a Collaboration between AN SHIM LIFE members:
Tea Master Andrei Ivanov,
and Juliette Doutreleau, a Food Experience Designer based in Kyoto.
Dear Guests,
We are delighted to extend an exclusive invitation to you for our Japan Tea Tour, a one-of-a-kind experience dedicated to the profound and captivating aesthetics of Japanese tea culture. This journey is not just a tour but a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene beauty and meticulous craftsmanship that define the art of tea in Japan.
What is Japanese tea? Attempting to describe it with words is a complex task, as Japanese tea is paradoxical these days: while tea plays an important role in the culture, it is also hard to find high-quality tea on a daily basis. A lot of young people don’t even own a teapot and don’t know how to brew tea. Indeed, coffee is the country’s national drink, and the tea that most people consume is mass-produced bottled tea made with low quality leaves. Yes, it takes a bit of effort to find real tea in Japan, but thanks to your experience we will show you where it is!
To deepen one’s understanding of a tea culture, we think that the best way is to experience it directly at the source in the country. This is why we started to organise tea tours X years ago, and this approach might be especially true for Japanese tea. Japanese tea is a philosophical, artistic, sensory and esthetic experience that goes beyond the tea room and connects with different layers of the culture. It has influenced the history, the literature, the architecture, the relationship to nature, the cuisine, the work ethics, the human interactions, and much more! For centuries, Japan has fascinated other countries and continues to do so nowadays. Through the lens of tea, you will gain insights into the culture and reflect on your own.
Our tour will focus on Kyoto, former capital and traditional culture centre, and Uji (the birthplace of Japanese tea). To explore these slow cities, full of temples and surrounded by nature, is to walk the path of tea! During this tour we will cover different aspects of Japanese tea culture:
- Tea history: from its Chinese origins to its transformation into a unique product
- Tea leaves: different tea types, producing regions and processing methods, brewing methods
- The Way of Tea (tea ceremony): harmonious relationships and communication through nature, food and the arts
- Modern tea wisdom: conscious lifestyle and Japanese artisans
We believe that Japanese tea holds valuable knowledge for living a good and beautiful life. The broader understanding you will gain on this tour will also deepen your general appreciation of tea. It is our pleasure to serve as facilitators to share the world of Japanese tea with you!
This Tea Tour is a Collaboration between AN SHIM LIFE members:
Tea Master Andrei Ivanov,
and Juliette Doutreleau, a Food Experience Designer based in Kyoto.
The art of tea ceremony, or Chanoyu, is another cornerstone of traditional Japanese culture. This ritualistic preparation and consumption of matcha (powdered green tea) embodies harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. With its deliberate and serene movements, the ceremony is not merely about drinking tea but about embracing the moment and the careful craftsmanship behind each gesture, offering a sense of calm and peace to those who partake in it.
Japanese architecture is a testament to the nation's reverence for nature and simplicity. Traditional Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, with their minimalist designs and natural settings, create spaces that foster reflection and spiritual growth. The zen garden, with its meticulously raked gravel and sparse vegetation, is a physical manifestation of the Zen Buddhist focus on mindfulness and tranquility, creating a harmonious balance that brings peace and ease.
Japan's cultural landscape is a compelling blend of the old and the new, where traditional practices and modern innovations coexist in harmony. Whether exploring ancient temples, indulging in contemporary pop culture, or participating in lively festivals, visitors to Japan are treated to a multifaceted cultural experience. This experience not only highlights the nation's profound respect for tradition but also its forward-looking dynamism, inspiring a sense of connection and optimism for the future.
Welcome to our Japan Tea Tour dedicated to Tea Aesthetics and The Sense of Beauty!
anshim.tea.collection@gmail.com
Japanese architecture is a testament to the nation's reverence for nature and simplicity. Traditional Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, with their minimalist designs and natural settings, create spaces that foster reflection and spiritual growth. The zen garden, with its meticulously raked gravel and sparse vegetation, is a physical manifestation of the Zen Buddhist focus on mindfulness and tranquility, creating a harmonious balance that brings peace and ease.
Japan's cultural landscape is a compelling blend of the old and the new, where traditional practices and modern innovations coexist in harmony. Whether exploring ancient temples, indulging in contemporary pop culture, or participating in lively festivals, visitors to Japan are treated to a multifaceted cultural experience. This experience not only highlights the nation's profound respect for tradition but also its forward-looking dynamism, inspiring a sense of connection and optimism for the future.
Welcome to our Japan Tea Tour dedicated to Tea Aesthetics and The Sense of Beauty!
anshim.tea.collection@gmail.com
Destination #1 - UJI
Destination #1 - UJI
Uji, a picturesque city in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its high-quality green tea, particularly its matcha. Nestled along the Uji River, it combines traditional charm with historical significance, boasting landmarks like the beautiful Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Uji’s tea culture dates back to the 12th century, making it a cultural hub for tea enthusiasts and a serene retreat for visitors seeking a blend of history, nature, and exquisite tea.
Destination #2 – WAZUKA
Destination #2 – WAZUKA
Wazuka is a picturesque town nestled in the rolling hills of Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. Known for its lush, terraced fields and serene landscapes, Wazuka is celebrated for its high-quality green tea. The town's rich tradition of tea cultivation spans centuries, and its tea gardens produce some of the finest matcha and sencha in the region. Visitors to Wazuka can enjoy scenic walks through the tea fields, participate in traditional tea ceremonies, and learn about the meticulous process of tea production. The area's natural beauty and cultural heritage make Wazuka a charming destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat and a deeper connection to Japan's tea culture.
Destination #3 – KIBUNE ONSEN
Destination #3 – KIBUNE ONSEN
Kibune Onsen is a serene hot spring resort located in the picturesque Kibune village, nestled in the mountains north of Kyoto, Japan. Known for its natural, mineral-rich waters, this tranquil onsen offers a rejuvenating escape amid lush forests and flowing streams. Visitors to Kibune Onsen can enjoy soaking in the warm, therapeutic waters while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The area’s traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) provide an authentic experience, featuring elegant tatami rooms, kaiseki meals, and soothing baths. Kibune Onsen’s charm lies in its harmonious blend of natural beauty and traditional Japanese hospitality, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and renewal.
Destination #4 – KYOTO
Destination #4 – KYOTO
Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city rich in history and culture, renowned for its stunning temples, traditional tea houses, and beautiful gardens. Nestled in the Kansai region, Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan’s ancient past with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant cultural practices. The city's landscape is dotted with over 1,600 temples and shrines, including the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates. Kyoto is also celebrated for its traditional arts, including tea ceremonies, geisha performances, and seasonal festivals. With its blend of historical charm and natural beauty, Kyoto remains a captivating destination for visitors seeking to experience the essence of Japan.
SCHEDULE
SCHEDULE
1st DAY (May 16)
Arrival at KIX, first dinner together in Uji
2nd DAY (May 17)
UJI -Visit Byodo In, tea
-Chasen making at Yasaburo
-Dinner at Kien
3rd DAY (May 18)
UJI -Visit and meditation at Kosho-ji
- Tea and parfait sweets at Tsujirihei
- Matcha at Horii Shichimeien
-Free time in Uji
4th DAY (May 19)
Wazuka, tea-making tour at Azuma
5th DAY (May 20)
Onsen/ Location to decide/Kibune/Kurama?
6th DAY (May 21)
Onsen Kyoto
7th DAY (May 22)
Kyoto Arashiyama
8th DAY (May 23)
Kyoto, Philosopher’s Path, RY Gallery/Komyo-ji, Murin An
9th DAY (May 24)
Kyoto, Raku Museum, wagashi masterclass, modern tea house Toka
10th DAY (May 25)
Kyoto, Kitano Flea Market
11th DAY (May 26)
FREE
Arrival at KIX, first dinner together in Uji
2nd DAY (May 17)
UJI -Visit Byodo In, tea
-Chasen making at Yasaburo
-Dinner at Kien
3rd DAY (May 18)
UJI -Visit and meditation at Kosho-ji
- Tea and parfait sweets at Tsujirihei
- Matcha at Horii Shichimeien
-Free time in Uji
4th DAY (May 19)
Wazuka, tea-making tour at Azuma
5th DAY (May 20)
Onsen/ Location to decide/Kibune/Kurama?
6th DAY (May 21)
Onsen Kyoto
7th DAY (May 22)
Kyoto Arashiyama
8th DAY (May 23)
Kyoto, Philosopher’s Path, RY Gallery/Komyo-ji, Murin An
9th DAY (May 24)
Kyoto, Raku Museum, wagashi masterclass, modern tea house Toka
10th DAY (May 25)
Kyoto, Kitano Flea Market
11th DAY (May 26)
FREE
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
DATES: May 16th - 26th
FULL PRICE ~2800 EUR (450 000 JPY)
*The price can be slightly higher due to the state of the Japanese yen (JPY) in the spring of 2025 and the situation associated with the World Expo!
We request a reservation fee (not refundable) to reserve your seat. After you make a reservation, you will receive an approval letter with all the necessary information! If you have any questions, use email to contact us!
anshim.tea.collection@gmail.com
REGISTRATION
The tour cost includes accommodation, meals, transportation inside Japan, and all the tea events during the ten-day tour!
The tour cost DOES NOT INCLUDE international airfare or any domestic travel not stated in the itinerary, nor does it include the VISA fee (if needed)! Any overweight baggage fees, taxes or charges, and charges due to cancellations or re-ticketing are at your own expense. We will not provide a refund for any unused portion of the tour.
FULL PRICE ~2800 EUR (450 000 JPY)
*The price can be slightly higher due to the state of the Japanese yen (JPY) in the spring of 2025 and the situation associated with the World Expo!
We request a reservation fee (not refundable) to reserve your seat. After you make a reservation, you will receive an approval letter with all the necessary information! If you have any questions, use email to contact us!
anshim.tea.collection@gmail.com
REGISTRATION
The tour cost includes accommodation, meals, transportation inside Japan, and all the tea events during the ten-day tour!
The tour cost DOES NOT INCLUDE international airfare or any domestic travel not stated in the itinerary, nor does it include the VISA fee (if needed)! Any overweight baggage fees, taxes or charges, and charges due to cancellations or re-ticketing are at your own expense. We will not provide a refund for any unused portion of the tour.
PREVIOUS TEA TOURS
PREVIOUS TEA TOURS
Visit our TEA TOUR page to check out the gallery of our previous tea tours to feel the atmosphere.