Tea, Tradition, and Tranquility in Murakami　-A Wellness Voyage Inspired by the Kitamae-bune in Murakami

In Murakami, where tea has been cultivated for over 400 years, embark on a unique 2-day gastronomic wellness tour that weaves together tea fields, utensils, tea kaiseki, and tea merchants—celebrating Murakami’s deep-rooted tea heritage. Known as the northernmost tea-growing region in Japan, Murakami tea is characterized by its mellow flavor, natural sweetness, and rich aroma—qualities nurtured by harsh winters and refined cultivation techniques.

While Murakami has long been an innovator in tea production—even exporting abroad as early as the Meiji era—one challenge remained: producing powdered matcha. This tour offers the rare opportunity to taste Murakami’s newly perfected matcha, paired with creative wagashi (Japanese sweets) performances by skilled local artisans. You’ll also get hands-on with the region’s signature lacquerware: Murakami Kibori Tsuishu.

Day 1: Lacquerware Craft and Michelin-Starred Tea Cuisine
Begin with a hands-on workshop creating your own lacquered chopsticks—Murakami’s traditional Kibori Tsuishu craft. Guided by a master artisan, you’ll carve the base of your chopsticks (the finished piece will be sent to you later).
In the evening, enjoy a tea-themed kaiseki dinner at Shintaku, a Michelin-starred restaurant. Taste exquisite dishes made with foraged wild vegetables and wild boar—sourced by the owner brothers themselves—paired with specially selected teas. Spend the night at a luxurious seaside onsen in Senami, where you can soak in expansive open-air baths overlooking the Sea of Japan.

Day 2: Tea Fields, Modern Wagashi Sweets, and Historical Strolls
Visit Murakami’s tea fields to witness where the region’s signature tea is grown, then head to Kujuen for a contemporary tea ceremony hosted by HIYORIKA—a new generation of wagashi artisans. Enjoy seasonal sweets presented in a stylish modern format, alongside Murakami’s long-awaited matcha.
Stroll through Kurobei-dori, Murakami’s historic black-fence-lined merchant street, accompanied by a local Umemon Ambassador who shares the hidden stories of this old tea town.

Book now