Kagoshima is one of Japan’s leading green tea regions. It is especially known for its sencha and high-quality matcha.

In this Kagoshima Tea Experience in Kagoshima City, you’ll step into the world of Japanese tea and learn how matcha is prepared and enjoyed through a hands-on, guided session.

The experience takes place at Birouen Tea, a historic tea shop established in 1883, located in Kagoshima City near the lively Tenmonkan shopping street.

Inside this traditional setting, you’ll be guided by an expert tea master who will introduce you to the culture, history, and rituals behind Japanese tea.

You can choose between two course options depending on your interest.

In the Introductory Tea Ceremony Class, you’ll learn the basics of the Japanese tea ceremony. This tradition evolved over centuries from tea practices dating back to the 9th century.

The tea master will demonstrate how to prepare matcha with traditional tools, then guide you as you try it yourself. Sitting in the traditional seiza position, you’ll experience the calm rhythm of tea preparation while learning directly from the tea master, who is available to answer your questions throughout.

In the Tea Sommelier Experience, you’ll step into the role of a tea server and learn how tea is properly served in Japan.

You’ll also take part in a tasting some different Kagoshima teas, exploring their flavor profiles and learning how they are produced.

This session offers a deeper look into the diversity of Kagoshima tea and how small differences in processing create distinct tastes.