Uji matcha tasting + Nara deer feeding 9-person premium small group, cultural in-depth tour from Kyoto/Osaka

Must Do Experiences

• Sip on premium, freshly whisked matcha in Uji, the historic birthplace of Japan's finest green tea.

• Hand-feed the famous, free-roaming sacred deer in Nara Park and learn about their cultural significance.

• Unwind and rejuvenate your senses with a soothing soak in a traditional Japanese hot spring.

• Engage in deep cultural conversations with your professional local driver for authentic insights into Japanese customs.

Hidden Gems

• Ask your driver to point out the lesser-known, quiet tea plantations in Uji that are often bypassed by large tour buses.

• Discover the specific spots in Nara Park where the deer are known to bow politely for treats, away from the heaviest crowds.

• Look out for the subtle, traditional architectural details of the historic tea houses in Uji that date back to the Edo period.

What Makes it Special

• An intimate, premium small-group setting capped at just nine travellers ensures a personalized and uncrowded experience.

• A strict no-shopping policy guarantees that your time is spent purely on sightseeing, culture, and relaxation.

• The inclusion of an optional Osaka city hotel pick-up and a dedicated professional driver makes the journey entirely seamless and stress-free.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Early morning departures are ideal for beating the crowds at Nara Park and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of Uji's tea houses. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and stunning seasonal foliage, making the scenic drives between Osaka, Uji, and Nara truly spectacular.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the deer in Nara Park during the soft morning light, getting down to their eye level for the most engaging and adorable portraits.

• Photograph the vibrant green hues of the matcha and the traditional wooden architecture of Uji's tea houses for a beautiful contrast of color and texture.

• Respect the rules at the hot spring facilities, as photography is strictly prohibited in bathing areas to protect the privacy of all guests.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When receiving your matcha in Uji, it is customary to bow slightly to the host, turn the bowl twice clockwise, and drink it in a few mindful sips to show appreciation. In Nara, while the deer are wild, they are treated with great respect; avoid chasing them or teasing them with food, and always bow back when they bow to you.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Nara Tokae Lantern Festival in August illuminates the park with thousands of candles, creating a magical evening backdrop for the deer.

• Uji hosts the annual Uji Tea Festival in October, celebrating the harvest with vibrant parades, traditional tea ceremonies, and exclusive matcha tastings.

• Spring brings the breathtaking cherry blossom season to both Nara Park and the riversides of Uji, offering spectacular seasonal photo opportunities.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid waving food or plastic bags around the deer, as they may mistake them for treats and become overly excited or nibble on you.

• Stay hydrated and limit your time in the hot spring to 15-20 minute intervals to prevent overheating or dizziness.

• Always follow the designated pedestrian crossings and traffic signals, especially in Nara where deer frequently wander onto the roads.