Kyoto: Eco-Friendly Uji Matcha Incense Making Experience

Ever wondered what it’s like to turn discarded matcha into fragrant art? This Uji Matcha Incense Making Experience offers a unique peek into Japan’s green tea culture, combined with a touch of eco-conscious craftsmanship. We’re here to give you a detailed look at what makes this workshop special, from the craftsmanship involved to the tranquil setting.

What caught our eye? First, the chance to craft your own matcha incense using over 50 wooden molds—a truly artistic process. Second, the beautiful location at Eshin-in, a quiet temple right near Byodoin, offers a peaceful atmosphere with garden views. Third, the experience’s environmentally friendly approach—upcycling matcha that would otherwise be discarded—makes it feel good to do something meaningful while traveling.

The only potential drawback? If you’re not a big fan of small-group settings or prefer a longer, more in-depth workshop, this one-hour session might feel a little brief. Still, it delivers a charming, focused experience that suits travelers interested in both culture and sustainability.

This experience will be perfect for those who love Japanese traditions, enjoy hands-on activities, or seek a meaningful souvenir to take home. It’s also a great choice for travelers who want a quiet, culturally rich activity without the crowds.

Good To Know

• Eco-friendly craftsmanship: Making incense from discarded matcha reduces waste and adds sustainability to your trip.
• Beautiful location: The workshop is held at Eshin-in, a peaceful temple with lovely garden views.
• Creative process: You choose from over 50 wooden molds to craft your own incense, resulting in an elegant, sweet-smelling keepsake.
• Practical design: Incense burners are foldable and travel-friendly, allowing you to enjoy matcha scent at home repeatedly.
• Authentic insights: Guides offer detailed explanations, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Ideal for small groups: Limited to eight participants, ensuring personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Uji Matcha Incense Making Experience

The Setting and Location

One of the first things you’ll notice is the location of the workshop: Eshin-in temple, situated in the heart of Uji. With its proximity to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Byodoin, the setting is perfect for travelers exploring Kyoto’s famous tea town. The venue is a serene, quiet space with views of a traditional Japanese garden, which creates a calming backdrop for this creative activity.

The logistics are straightforward. The workshop begins just a short walk uphill from Fukujuen Uji Workshop, crossing the river, passing through a gate, and then veering left before the garden. This location offers an authentic temple atmosphere, making the experience feel more special than a typical craft class. Reviewers mention the venue as peaceful and conducive to concentration, which is ideal for a mindful activity like incense making.

The Workshop Experience: Step-by-Step

The session lasts about one hour, making it an ideal short activity for a morning or afternoon break. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a knowledgeable guide—often bilingual in Japanese and English—who walks you through each step. The guides are praised for their clarity and passion, sharing insights into the art of incense and the significance of matcha in Japanese culture.

Learning about the history of incense sets a respectful tone, emphasizing its role in meditation, ceremonies, and daily life. After a brief demonstration, you get hands-on with creating your own matcha incense.

Making Your Own Matcha Incense

What makes this experience truly special is the eco-friendly aspect. The raw material—matcha that has been filtered and collected during manufacturing but isn’t used for food—is repurposed into incense. This upcycling process not only reduces waste but also gives you a product with a genuine story behind it.

You will choose a shape from over 50 wooden molds—each crafted to resemble beautiful wagashi sweets—adding an aesthetic appeal. The molds are made of wood, and some guests say it’s just as enjoyable to select and see your design take shape as it is to smell the finished product. The resulting incense looks like tiny, intricate sculptures, which are as decorative as they are fragrant.

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The Fragrance and Its Unique Appeal

The fragrance is entirely made from matcha, which is a novel idea—the world’s first incense to do so. The gentle green tea aroma is calming and subtly sweet, perfect for adding a peaceful note to your home or workspace. Reviewers note that the scent is distinct, clean, and not overpowering, making it suitable for everyday use.

An added perk is the special incense burner provided for home. It’s foldable, making it travel-friendly, and designed specifically for matcha scent. Once the fragrance fades, you can decorate or soak the incense in oil to reuse it as aroma stones—adding value beyond the initial workshop.

Personalization and Final Touches

After molding, you can decorate your incense or choose to keep it simple. Some participants mention that they enjoyed the quiet concentration of the process, while others appreciated the guided insights into the significance of different shapes and patterns. It’s an activity that combines artistic expression with cultural learning.

The Takeaway and Additional Tips

Most reviews agree that the guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the process accessible to beginners. If you’re in a rush, note that the session starts promptly, and arriving five minutes early ensures you won’t miss a moment. For last-minute bookings, a little caution is suggested—English interpreters may not always be available, so planning ahead is wise.

The cost is reasonable considering it includes all materials, instruction, and the incense to take home. It offers great value for travelers who want a meaningful, handcrafted souvenir that’s both beautiful and eco-conscious.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This workshop is perfect for cultural travelers, eco-conscious visitors, and craft lovers. If you enjoy Japanese traditions, want a creative activity that’s different from typical sightseeing, or are simply curious about incense and matcha, you’ll find it rewarding.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate small-group settings, as the limited number of participants ensures personalized attention. If you’re traveling with someone who enjoys quiet, meditative activities or wants a unique gift to remember Kyoto, this is an excellent choice.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto: Eco-Friendly Uji Matcha Incense Making Experience offers a rare blend of tradition, sustainability, and artistry. You’ll leave with a handcrafted keepsake that’s as beautiful as it is meaningful, all within a peaceful temple setting. It’s a chance to connect with Japanese culture in a tactile, memorable way—perfect for those who love authenticity and craftsmanship.

Whether you’re a tea aficionado, a craft enthusiast, or someone seeking a mindful break from sightseeing, this workshop delivers a charming, enriching experience. The eco-conscious angle adds a modern twist, making it clear that beauty and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.

For travelers eager for a hands-on cultural activity that results in a tangible, beautiful souvenir, this incense workshop stands out as a quietly rewarding choice—one that balances artistry, tradition, and environmental mindfulness.

FAQ

Is the workshop suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide clear instructions and demonstrations, making it accessible for all skill levels, including first-timers.

How long does the workshop last?
It’s a one-hour experience, perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day without feeling rushed.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially since English interpreters may not be available for last-minute bookings. The experience allows for flexible booking with pay-later options.

What is included in the price?
All materials, instruction, the custom incense, and a foldable incense burner designed for matcha scent are included.

Can I customize the shape of my incense?
You can choose from over 50 wooden molds, many shaped like beautiful wagashi sweets, but the process is guided to ensure a polished result.

Is the incense safe to use at home?
Yes, the incense is crafted with care, and the fragrance is gentle. The burner is designed for safe use, and you can reuse the incense as aroma stones.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing is fine; aprons are typically provided. Arriving a few minutes early ensures a smooth start, and bring your curiosity and enthusiasm!

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