Tucked away in the rolling hills of Ujitawara Town, southeast of Kyoto, Koyama Tea Farm & Garden offers one of the region's most authentic tea-tourism experiences. Set near the historic Shoujuin temple, the organic tea plantation cascades dramatically down the slopes — a stunning sight that draws visitors from across Japan and abroad. (Tea plantation walks are available on Saturdays and Sundays only; private reservations may occasionally close the farm, so check the official website before visiting. Address: 127-1 Okuyamada Miyagaito, Ujitawara Town, Tsuzuki-gun, Kyoto.)

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Single-Origin Tea with a View

The farm's cafe is where the magic happens. Their rich matcha latte lets the true character of the tea leaves shine through — no syrups, no shortcuts. Purists can opt for traditional matcha served with delicate higashi confectionery, or a cold-brewed sencha made with an unusually generous amount of premium leaves. Every cup is a one-of-a-kind encounter with single-origin Kyoto tea.

And then there's the view. Sitting on the terrace, gazing out across the vibrant green plantation with the mountains beyond, has a way of melting away every last trace of daily stress. It's the kind of moment that feels almost too perfect to be real.

For the curious: matcha is made by steaming, drying and stone-grinding tea leaves into a fine powder, then whisking it with hot water using a bamboo chasen. It's the tea most Japanese people picture when they think of the tea ceremony. Sencha, by contrast, is made by kneading and drying the leaves — it's Japan's everyday tea, found in vending machines and convenience stores nationwide. A fun historical footnote: the modern sencha production method was pioneered right here in Ujitawara by Nagatani Soen in the 18th century.

Better Access to Wazuka's Teatopia

The recently opened Jubuzan Tunnel has dramatically shortened travel time between Ujitawara and neighbouring Wazuka Town, making it easier than ever to combine both destinations in a single day trip. A new express bus service from Kyoto Keihan Bus (launched September 6) offers quick connections from Uji Station on both the JR Nara and Keihan Uji lines.

Consider adding Wazuka — affectionately known as "Teatopia" — to your itinerary. The Shirasu and Ishitera Tea Plantations here are recognised as part of the Japan Heritage "Japanese Tea: Eight Centuries of Tradition" and are among Kyoto Prefecture's designated Scenic Assets.