Shizuoka Tour, Tea Picking & Dining with Views of Mt. Fuji

Japan’s tea culture is nothing short of fascinating, and you can discover it in an exclusive and private tea harvesting and dining experience in one of Japan's leading tea producing areas, Mt. Awagatake, Shizuoka, which also happens to be a very scenic spot to bask in views of nearby Mt. Fuji. Along with a local guide, you’ll explore the fields, pick tea leaves, and hike up Mt. Awagatake to enjoy a fine dining experience with local specialties and unparalleled views. There, an expert will teach you the traditional way to make tea. This experience is conducted in Japanese, but an English or Chinese interpreter will be there to ensure communication. You’ll start your day at a local tea shop at the foot of Mt. Awagatake where you’ll meet your guide, who will be waiting for you with a fresh cup of tea. Together, you'll head to an organic tea plantation, where you’ll pick tea leaves while relishing in the views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay, as your guide fills you in on the history of the area. After harvesting, your guide will take you on a 30-minute hike up Mt. Awagatake, during which you'll see wild animals and plants and stop by scenic viewpoints and spiritual spots, like ancient monoliths and shrines. Be sure to work an appetite as you climb — a fine dining course meal awaits at the summit! The meal at Tenku no Chabakate restaurant features local ingredients and, of course, plenty of tea. You’ll taste deep-fried and battered tea-leaf tempura made from the leaves you harvested earlier. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you sit back and enjoy the incredible views. You'll wrap up the experience with a cup of tea, but not just any. A master tea-maker will teach you how to best enjoy Japanese tea with a lesson and tasting, so you can enjoy the traditional way. This exclusive tour combining nature and fine dining takes you on an unforgettable journey through Shizuoka's finest brews, from leaf to cup.