Nishio Matcha Story｜Tea Ceremony & Matcha Kaiseki Journey
Active
4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Highlights
-Journey into Nishio, Japan’s historic hometown of premium matcha cultivation
-Discover the story of matcha through stone-milling, tea ceremony, and whisking
-Learn from a licensed tea master in a noble family’s historic tea room
-Conclude with a refined Kaiseki (multi-course meal) inspired by the fragrance of matcha
Tour Overview
For centuries, Nishio has been revered as Japan’s hometown of matcha, where ideal climate and pure waters create tea of deep umami and vivid color. This experience invites you into that legacy: observe a formal tea ceremony in a historic tea room, then whisk your own bowl with guidance from a tea master. Mill your own matcha using a traditional stone grinder and learn the cultural story behind Nishio tea from a local guide. Conclude with a seasonal kaiseki meal infused with premium Nishio matcha at a restored traditional residence, savoring the harmony of flavor, history, and place.
Available options
Nishio Matcha Story｜Tea Ceremony & Matcha Kaiseki Journey
What's included
Round-trip taxi transportation (meeting point to venues)
Hands-on matcha whisking experience
Seasonal kaiseki dinner featuring matcha-inspired dishes
Tea ceremony led by a licensed tea master
Matcha stone-milling experience
English-speaking guide
Travel Insurance
Detailed itinerary
1
We will meet up with the interpreter guide and travel by taxi.
2
Matcha grinding experience with a mortar and pestle and tea ceremony demonstration by a certified tea master.
After that, stroll through the Nishio City Historic District.
3
A meal of Japanese kaiseki cuisine with the aroma of matcha
4
Take a taxi to Nishio Station and the tour ends.
What's not included
Transportation to the meeting point
Drinks during dinner
Guide gratuities (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Your interpreter guide will be waiting for you holding your name board.
About Nishio
Nishio is a charming city in Aichi Prefecture, renowned for its traditional Japanese sweetfish (ayu) and beautiful natural landscapes. The city offers a blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
Top Attractions
Nishio Castle
Nishio Castle, also known as Handa Castle, is a well-preserved castle with a rich history. The castle grounds offer beautiful views and a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (castle grounds) or ¥300 (museum)
Nishio City Museum
The Nishio City Museum showcases the city's history and culture, including exhibits on the famous Japanese sweetfish (ayu) and local crafts.
Museum
1-2 hours
¥300
Shiroyama Park
Shiroyama Park is a beautiful park located on a hill, offering panoramic views of Nishio and the surrounding countryside. The park is home to various seasonal flowers and trees, making it a popular spot for picnics and walks.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Nishio Ayu no Yu
Nishio Ayu no Yu is a traditional public bathhouse where visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak while savoring the city's famous Japanese sweetfish (ayu). The bathhouse offers a unique cultural experience and a chance to unwind.
Cultural
1-2 hours
¥500-¥1,000
Nishio Market
Nishio Market is a bustling market where visitors can sample local delicacies, including the famous Japanese sweetfish (ayu). The market offers a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and traditional snacks.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for food and goods
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ayu (Japanese Sweetfish)
A small, sweet fish that is a local delicacy, often grilled and served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Dinner
Contains fish
Hegi Soba
A type of buckwheat noodle dish that is a local specialty, often served with a savory broth or sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian option available
Nishio Miso
A locally produced miso paste that is used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and marinades.
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian/vegan options available
Ayu Sake
A local sake brewed with ayu fish, offering a unique and delicious flavor.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking in Shiroyama Park
Ayu fishing in Ayu no Sato
Visiting Nishio Ayu no Yu
Strolling through Nishio Market
Exploring Nishio Castle
Visiting local museums and temples
Ayu fishing
Boat tours on the nearby rivers
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city's cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn are particularly beautiful.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time (JST, GMT+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Nishio is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, travelers should always take basic precautions to protect their belongings and personal safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight to deter pickpockets
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas
Getting there
By air
- Chubu Centrair International Airport • 25 km from Nishio
By train
Nishio Station
By bus
Nishio Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Trains are efficient and widely used. IC cards like Suica or Manaca can be used for payment.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None commonly used
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Nishio
Ayu no Sato
Handa
Day trips
Okazaki
15 km from Nishio • Half day to full day
Okazaki is a historic city known for its well-preserved castle and traditional samurai district. The city offers a variety of cultural experiences and attractions, including museums, temples, and shrines.
Toyohashi
30 km from Nishio • Full day
Toyohashi is a historic city known for its well-preserved castle and traditional crafts. The city offers a variety of cultural experiences and attractions, including museums, temples, and shrines.
Nagoya
40 km from Nishio • Full day or overnight
Nagoya is a major city in Aichi Prefecture, offering a variety of cultural, historical, and modern attractions. The city is known for its museums, temples, and shopping districts.
Festivals
Nishio Ayu Festival • August
Nishio Summer Festival • July
Nishio Autumn Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit Nishio Castle early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
- Try the local ayu dishes at Nishio Market or Ayu no Sato for an authentic taste of the city's famous sweetfish
- Explore the city's traditional crafts and workshops, such as those that produce Nishio's famous miso paste and hegi soba noodles
- Take a day trip to the nearby cities of Okazaki, Toyohashi, or Nagoya to experience more of the Aichi Prefecture's culture and history
- Visit during the Nishio Ayu Festival in August for a unique and memorable experience, featuring fireworks, food stalls, and various ayu-related activities
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
