Tea on the Plantations

Discover tea crafted by masters in the tea space among the tea fields of Ureshino, Saga.

Duration: 1.5 hours
Location: Ureshino
Capacity: Up to 15 guests (depending on the tea space)
From: On request

About This Experience

Ureshino is nestled comfortably in the Tara Mountains, on the border of Saga and Nagasaki prefectures. Step away from the hot spring town, and tea fields stretch across the slopes to the horizon.

Amidst these fields are tea spaces created solely for the enjoyment of a single cup of tea.

Here, teas from local farmers are served. Several varieties, selected according to the season, are paired with delicacies chosen specifically for each tea. Even among Ureshino teas, aroma and flavor vary depending on the tea farm and master. This difference becomes the main theme of each tea gathering.

When the hosts are the farmers themselves, guests can hear firsthand about soil preparation, harvest times, and unique tea production techniques.

About Ureshino Tea

It is believed that tea cultivation in Ureshino began in the mid-15th century, when a potter from Ming China planted tea for his own use. In 1504, another Ming potter, Kurei Min, brought a kiln from Nanjing and introduced the pan-firing method.

At the beginning of the Edo period, Shinbei Yoshimura expanded the tea gardens into the mountains and is considered the "founder of Ureshino tea." The "Great Ureshino Tea Tree," which legend says was planted by Shinbei, was declared a national natural monument in 1926.

Ureshino tea is distinguished by tamaryokucha (Guri-cha) shaped like magatama. Two production methods—steaming and pan-firing in a tilted kettle—are still used here today.

Highlights

Tea ceremony among the tea plantations — Enjoy tea grown right on the very field where you stand. An experience where origin and tea ceremony merge into one.
A cup crafted by a master — At Ureshino Chaji, tea farmers brew tea they have grown themselves. Their philosophy is reflected in the choice of water temperature and selection of teaware.
The unique character of Tamaryokucha — Tamarokucha from Ureshino, rolled into the shape of a magatama bead. It is believed that the pan-roasting technique was brought from Ming Dynasty China in the early 16th century.

Options

Tea ceremony by the concierge Approximately 1.5 hours (including transfers) On request
You will be attended by a certified concierge. Enjoy three cups of tea, selected from local tea growers according to the season, each accompanied by two matching sweets. Available year-round.
Tea ceremony by tea farmers Approximately 1.5 hours (including transfers) On request
The tea master personally brews tea grown by his own hands. Enjoy a unique experience of meeting the producer. Please note: this option is unavailable during the peak agricultural season from mid-March to the end of June.

Practical Information

Venue: A single tea space on a private tea farm. Ureshino City, Saga Prefecture
Transfer: Transfer from Ureshino Onsen Station to the farm. Please note that pick-up and drop-off locations may not always match your preferences.
Language and translation: The tour will be conducted in Japanese. You will be accompanied by a MA JAPAN assistant who will provide translation.
Period of validity: The tea experience with the concierge is available year-round. The tea experience with tea farmers is not offered during the peak agricultural season from mid-March to the end of June.
Clothing and footwear: As you will be walking through tea plantations, we recommend comfortable walking shoes.
Notes: - There are no restroom facilities in the tea space. Please use the amenities before departure.
- In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the event will be canceled. Indoor venues or alternative options are not provided.