#Japan #Kyoto #Club Tourism #WESTEXPRESS #Fukujyu-en

A Journey Through Tea Culture: WESTEXPRESS Galaxy Tour Around Lake Biwa

In a unique collaboration between Club Tourism, West Japan Railway Company (JR West), and Fukujyu-en, an exclusive tea-themed tour is set to take place on June 7th, 2025. This special event features the WESTEXPRESS Galaxy train, which is designed to evoke the experience of a traveling tea room, completing a scenic route around Lake Biwa, departing from Kyoto Station and reaching Nakayamakoen Station along the Nara Line, before culminating in a fascinating experience at Fukujyu-en's tea theme park in Yawata.

An Immersive Tea Experience

The tour promises an immersive exploration of tea culture, professionally curated by the renowned Japanese tea merchant, Fukujyu-en, famous for their premium Iemon tea. Participants will have the chance to engage in various activities that showcase the art of tea, including a guided session on how to brew gyokuro (a type of high-quality green tea) and another segment focused on grinding matcha using traditional stone mills. These hands-on experiences allow guests to appreciate the full sensory essence of tea, making this tour a must for tea enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

The WESTEXPRESS Galaxy: A Moving Tea Room

Uniquely, the train itself will transform into a 'moving tea room.' This exclusive one-day experience will feature an atmosphere designed to celebrate and honor the exquisite world of Kyoto's tea culture. Attendees will enjoy special bento meals and seasonal sweets paired with expertly brewed tea, prepared on board by Junko Sophie Kakizaki, a renowned tea master, who has hosted world leaders and distinguished guests in private temples across Kyoto. Her expertise ensures that every sip is amazing, elevating the entire dining experience aboard the train.

The Scenic Beauty of Lake Biwa

The WESTEXPRESS Galaxy provides stunning views of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Guests will have ample opportunities to enjoy the scenic beauty as they ride alongside the beautiful shoreline, incorporating traditional Japanese elements with the modern appeal of rail travel.

Fukujyu-en's Tea Theme Park

Following the train ride, the tour includes a visit to Fukujyu-en's tea theme park, where guests can delve even deeper into the world of tea. This enchanting location offers insights into the tea-making process, along with interactive exhibitions that pay homage to this vital component of Japanese culture. It is an ideal setting for visitors to relax after an engaging day of exploration, complete with the tranquility of a beautifully curated tea garden.

Tour Details

The tour program titled "Lake Biwa Round Trip on the WESTEXPRESS Galaxy and Tea Path Experience at Fukujyu-en Yawata" is set for June 7, 2025. The ticket price for this incredible journey is 24,800 yen per person. Interested individuals can get more information and book their spot through the link provided: Tour Details.

Conclusion

This collaborative initiative is set to redefine the travel experience for those keen to explore Japan's rich tea heritage while enjoying the exceptional comfort and innovation of the WESTEXPRESS Galaxy train. Whether you are a tea aficionado or simply wish to enjoy an unforgettable journey across beautiful landscapes, this tour promises an enriching look into the traditions that shape Japan's cultural fabric.

For further media inquiries, please contact Club Tourism at TEL: 050-3649-8352 or via email at [email protected].