Shizuoka: 6-hour Private Tour & Japanese Tea Farm w/ Vehicle

Taking a guided tour of Shizuoka offers a wonderful mix of authentic Japanese culture, lush scenery, and personalized service. This 6-hour private experience from JGA Inc. combines a visit to a centuries-old tea farm with a guided city tour tailored to your interests, all within a comfortable private vehicle. It’s a fantastic way to see Japan’s renowned tea-producing region and enjoy a bit of local history and scenery, especially if you’re after a flexible and intimate experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit the Moriuchi Tea Farm, a family-run operation that’s been in the same family since the Edo Period—imagine the stories those tea leaves could tell. Second, the customizable itinerary allows you to pick 1 to 2 city spots, making it flexible based on your personal interests. And third, the private vehicle with a driver means you won’t be stuck in a large group or rushed, giving you time to relax and absorb each experience fully.

One possible consideration? Since the tour is customizable, you’ll need to coordinate directly with your guide after booking, which might require some planning. Also, while the price is competitive for a private experience, keep in mind that it’s priced for up to one guest—additional travelers will need to book separately or pay extra.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value personalization, culture, and the comfort of private transportation. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, or small groups eager to experience Shizuoka’s rich tea culture and scenic beauty without the hassle of navigating on their own.

Good To Know

• Customizable itinerary offers flexibility to suit your interests
• Private vehicle and driver provide comfort and convenience
• Family-run Moriuchi Tea Farm provides authentic insight into Japan’s tea heritage
• Spectacular views of Mt. Fuji from the tea farm lookout
• Guided city tour with licensed English and Japanese-speaking guides
• Limited group size enhances intimacy and personalized attention

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Look at the Shizuoka Experience

This private tour provides a well-balanced glimpse into Shizuoka’s cultural and natural offerings, all packaged into a manageable 6-hour window. As one reviewer mentioned, “The tea farm was the highlight—meeting the owners and learning their passion for tea really made it special.” The Moriuchi Tea Farm is a true family operation, with ninth-generation owners who are eager to share their knowledge. You get to walk through the verdant tea fields, inhale the fresh scent of green tea leaves, and even taste their special brew, which reviewers say is unlike any tea you’ve had before.

The farm’s location offers stunning vistas of Mt. Fuji, visible from a dedicated lookout spot. This is a rare chance to see Japan’s most iconic mountain from a peaceful vantage point, with lush tea fields in the foreground. Many travelers appreciated the opportunity to relax here, especially after a busy few days of sightseeing.

Following the farm visit, your licensed guide will take you on a city tour designed around your preferences. You can choose from three notable spots: Sumpu Castle Park, Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, or Kunozan Toshogu Shrine. Each offers a different flavor of history, spirituality, and local culture. For example, Sumpu Castle Park provides a peaceful walk through historic ruins and beautiful gardens, while the shrines offer insight into Japan’s spiritual traditions.

According to reviews, “The guide was extremely knowledgeable and flexible, helping us tailor the city visit to include what piqued our curiosity most.” This flexibility is a major plus, especially if you’re traveling with specific interests or want to avoid cookie-cutter tours.

Transport and Timing

The private vehicle with a driver ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, allowing you to focus on enjoying your surroundings rather than worrying about navigation. Pickup is included from your hotel or a nearby location within a 10 km radius of Shizuoka station, adding convenience to your day. The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, giving enough time to soak in both the farm and city without feeling rushed.

Cost and Value

At $771 for a private group up to one person, this tour is a fair investment considering the personalized service, private transportation, and authentic experiences included. For solo travelers or couples who value privacy and customization, the price aligns well with the quality and exclusivity offered. Keep in mind that additional guests would require separate bookings, which could increase the overall cost.

While there are some similar experiences online, this tour’s strength lies in its personalized approach and direct interaction with the farm owners. The opportunity to learn about traditional tea-making from a family with centuries of history adds a layer of depth that larger, more generic tours might lack.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs. You’ll want to bring some cash for purchases or tips, and it’s wise to confirm your preferred pickup location after booking. Since the tour isn’t confirmed until your guide contacts you—usually within a week—it’s best to be flexible with your schedule.

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Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Moriuchi Tea Farm is not just a place to sample green tea; it’s a living testament to Japan’s agricultural tradition. You’ll meet the husband and wife team, who are the ninth generation of their family to run the farm. They’re passionate about sharing their craft, passed down through generations since the Edo Period. Visitors often note the warmth and pride they show when explaining their processes, which makes the tasting experience feel genuine and personal.

Exploring the lush green fields, you’ll see how carefully the tea leaves are cultivated, hand-picked, and processed. Expect to try their unique brewed tea—something reviewers describe as “smooth and flavorful, unlike store-bought varieties.” The lookout point offers sweeping views of Mt. Fuji, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

The city tour segment is flexible. If you choose Sumpu Castle Park, you’ll walk through historic grounds and lush gardens, ideal for history buffs or those wanting a peaceful nature walk. Visiting Shizuoka Sengen Shrine immerses you in spiritual tradition, with its iconic torii gates and tranquil atmosphere. For a more elaborate experience, Kunozan Toshogu Shrine offers detailed architecture and historical significance, often appreciated by those interested in Japan’s religious heritage.

Reviewing the Experience

One guest mentioned, “Our guide was fantastic—she tailored the tour perfectly, and the tea farm was the highlight of our trip.” Another noted that the private vehicle made all the difference, especially after a morning of sightseeing or if you’re traveling with children or mobility challenges.

The flexibility of the itinerary means your experience can be as casual or in-depth as you wish, and the guide’s local knowledge enhances each stop. The overall pace is relaxed, which is a blessing after busy days on other tours.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic and personalized introduction to Shizuoka’s culture and scenery. If you value flexibility, comfort, and meaningful interactions with local producers, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a private experience that can be tailored to their interests.

Plus, those interested in Japanese tea culture will find the visit to Moriuchi Tea Farm particularly enriching, especially given its long history and family ownership. The scenic views and cultural stops make it a well-rounded day for lovers of history, nature, and Japanese traditions.

Practical Tips and Final Thoughts

• Bring cash for purchases or tips (not always accepted at the farm).
• Confirm your pickup location and time with your guide after booking.
• Prepare to discuss your interests in advance to help your guide craft the perfect itinerary.
• Dress comfortably, especially if you plan to walk around the tea farm and city parks.
• Consider the weather—if it’s rainy or foggy, the views of Mt. Fuji might be less clear, but the experience remains charming.

This tour offers a carefully curated taste of Shizuoka’s authentic side, with the comfort of private transportation and the flexibility to shape your day. It’s a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a meaningful, relaxed way to experience Japan’s famed green tea and scenic beauty.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided visit to the Moriuchi Tea Farm, a private vehicle with a driver, and a city sightseeing segment with a licensed guide. Pickup from your hotel or a nearby location is also included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, you can choose 1 to 2 spots to visit in Shizuoka City—options include Sumpu Castle Park, Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, or Kunozan Toshogu Shrine. You’ll coordinate your choices directly with your guide after booking.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, giving enough time for both the tea farm visit and a relaxed city tour.

Is this tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to specify any special needs when booking to ensure arrangements are suitable.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for any purchases, tips, or small expenses. Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended, especially for walking around the farm and parks.

When will I know if my tour is confirmed?
Most guides will contact you within 7 days of booking to confirm details. If a guide isn’t available, the provider will notify you promptly.

This private Shizuoka experience offers a thoughtful blend of culture, scenery, and relaxation—perfect for travelers eager to see Japan’s tea country through a personalized lens.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby