World Of Tea

OVERVIEW

Delve into the world of tea through experiences that reveal the cultural importance of the beverage in Japan. Your immersion will begin in the tea fields of Higashisonogi, the largest producer of tea in the Nagasaki Prefecture. While walking among the green rows of tea, you will learn to distinguish the leaves that are ready to pick. Those leaves eventually make their way to a factory where they are typically steamed, rolled and sorted. There, you will learn about the process and the art of tea-making and the cultural importance of tea. It is only natural that a tasting follows, during which you will hear about the factors that ensure a perfect cup of tea. They include water temperature, the proportion of leaves to water and not disturbing the tea while it is steeping. A bento box will be served during the tasting of teas, each of which has its own unique flavor profile.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Become immersed in the production of tea by visiting tea fields and a tea factory.
• Gain insight into the world of tea that is so ingrained into the Japanese culture.
• Savor a tasting of different teas, each with its own qualities and characteristics.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.