Uji

**Tsuen Tea experience:** The shop's 900-year history is palpable — dark wood interiors, tea utensils displayed from different eras, and the current master (24th generation) sometimes prepares tea personally. Order the traditional matcha set (¥850) — ceremonial-grade matcha whisked tableside, served with seasonal wagashi sweet. The view overlooking Uji River adds contemplative atmosphere. **Nakamura Tokichi timing:** This matcha cafe is Uji's most popular (expect 30–60 minute waits on weekends). Arrive at opening (10:00) or after 15:00 to minimize wait. The matcha parfait (¥1,600) layers house-made matcha ice cream, shiratama mochi, adzuki bean paste, and matcha jelly — rich, bitter-sweet, authentically Uji. **Tea plantation tours:** Ocha no Kyoto (お茶の京都) organization offers guided tea farm tours (May–June, first flush harvest season). See shaded-grown gyokuro cultivation, learn processing techniques, and participate in tea picking (¥3,000–5,000). Book 1 month ahead through Uji City Tourism Office. Limited English availability but worth the immersion.