• kameya
  • nishiki
  • yasaka01
  • yasaka02
  • yasaka03
  • sub3_亀屋吉永
1 6

Kyoto's Hidden Water Treasures: Four Springs and Matcha

Kyoto's Hidden Water Treasures: Four Springs and Matcha

Kyoto area

¥10,200 JPY
¥10,200 JPY
Sale Sold out
Contact to seller ×
Query submitted

Confirmation will be provided within 48 hours, and is subject to availability. Your credit card will only be charged upon confirmation of your booking.

A minimum of 2 participants is required for this tour. Solo travelers are welcome to inquire about availability by using the contact button.

You will receive a full refund of the tour price if you cancel at least 72 hours before the tour.

 

Overview

This tour explores the secrets of "WAKIMIZU," the key to the deliciousness of Japanese matcha and wagashi.Many of you have already tasted matcha and wagashi. But do you know why they are so delicious? The secret lies in "WAKIMIZU" (spring water), which is indispensable for making wagashi and preparing matcha.Kyoto is located in a basin blessed with abundant groundwater. Since ancient times, people have used spring water not only for daily life but also for tea ceremonies and making wagashi.On this tour, we will visit hidden spring water spots in the city and taste the water on the spot. While enjoying the different flavors of each spring, let's explore the secrets of "WAKIMIZU" nurtured by history and culture.Finally, we have a special experience for you at a long-established Japanese confectionery shop founded 200 years ago. Enjoy matcha prepared with spring water and namagashi (fresh Japanese wagashi sweets) specially made for this tour, which you cannot usually taste.

 

What is Included

  • An English-speaking guide
  • Matcha and sweets
  • All admission fees and activity fees

 

Start Time

01:00 pm

  • What to Expect

    Yasaka Shrine

    Our walking tour of hidden spring water sources begins at Yasaka Shrine.

    Kyoto, a city ensconced in legend, is said to be guarded by four divine creatures known as the Shijin, each representing a cardinal direction. The east, where Yasaka Shrine stands, is protected by the Azure Dragon. Beneath the shrine's main hall, a mystical pond, or dragon's lair, is said to be home to this divine creature. The spring water that flows from this sacred place is known as "Gion Shinsui," or "Power Water," and is deeply revered by locals. It is believed that drinking this water, followed by applying a few drops of "Biyomizu" or "beauty water", which emerges from a shrine dedicated to beautiful women, will bestow upon one both inner and outer beauty. This powerful spot is frequented by geisha and maiko alike.

    Nishiki Tenmangu

    This sacred spring water, said to be blessed by Tenjin, the deity of learning, is believed to grant protection from misfortune, wisdom, and success in academic pursuits.

    Hiyoketemmangu

    This sacred spring water from a shrine revered as a fire-preventing deity has a fascinating history. It is said that during the Hamaguri-gomon Incident in the late Edo period, this area miraculously escaped a great fire. Since then, there have been numerous tales of the shrine's divine protection against fire.

    Kameya Yoshinaga

    After a walking tour of three unique spring water sources, our journey will conclude at a confectionery founded in 1803, where you can enjoy matcha made with spring water and exquisite namagashi (fresh Japanese wagashi sweets), which are not typically available in the shop.


    Additional Info

    • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers

Duration: 2.5 hours

View full details