Kamatsuka was known as a tea-growing area during the Edo period. After production expanded in the postwar period, the tea gardens grew into large, hilly plantations extending to mountain peaks and into the mountains. The landscape of the Kamatsuka tea plantations is recognized as a “Japan Heritage.” This distinction separates its historical reputation from its later expansion: Kamatsuka was already known as a tea-growing area during the Edo period, while the large plantations were created through postwar expansion.
Tea Landscapes and Views
The Kamatsuka tea plantations can be seen from Prefectural Route 5, Wazuka’s main road. From the town center, you can observe the seasonal changes in the plantations and the work of the tea farmers. The two vantage points offer different perspectives: the plantations are visible from the road, while the town center brings the changing seasons and the work involved in growing tea into view. If you are choosing between a landscape view and observing tea cultivation, this distinction can help you decide what you would like to focus on.
Guided Ride Through the Tea Fields
The Green Slow Mobility Tour complements these observations with a ride through the tea fields. It starts at the Wazuka Tourist Information Center and travels in an eco-friendly vehicle to the Ishitera tea plantation area and back. The route follows narrow roads through the fields, offering close-up views of the tea plants and views of the surrounding landscape. A knowledgeable guide explains Wazuka’s history, the characteristics of Wazuka tea, and the year-round work involved in growing the plants. The tour therefore differs from the views from the road and town center by offering a ride, close-up views, and explanations. Check availability before booking and operating days before your trip.
Getting to the Tourist Information Center
From the west side of JR Kamo Station, take a Nara Kotsu bus toward Wazuka Kosugi to the Wazukakawara stop. The journey takes about 15 minutes. From the stop, the Wazuka Tourist Information Center is about a one-minute walk. Check the current timetable before traveling. For planning, you can consider the bus ride and the walk that follows separately; approximate durations are provided for each.
Tea Experiences and Hours
On the second floor of the cha nova Health and Welfare Center in Kamatsuka, Hokkori Circle serves tea in a tatami room. The experience is available without a reservation between 10:30 and 16:00; check the program details again before your visit. At the Wazuka Tourist Information Center, a continuous tea service is scheduled between 10:00 and 16:00. You should also check these program details before your trip. The two time periods overlap from 10:30 to 16:00 and both end at 16:00; the different locations are another factor to consider when planning.
Discover more destinations: Miyazu, Soraku District, Ayabe, Yawata, Kasagi, Seika, Nantan, Uji
For the main travel overview: Kyoto Prefecture.
