Discover the Soul of Japanese Tea at Foret Nakakawane Tea Museum
Nestled in the serene heart of Kawane, a village renowned for its centuries-old tea heritage, Foret Nakakawane Tea Museum stands as a serene roadside station where nature, tradition, and craftsmanship converge. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling tea fields, this cultural haven offers more than just a pit stop—it invites visitors into a world where every sip tells a story.
Here, guests can savor the nuanced flavors of Kawane tea through hands-on tasting experiences, learning how temperature and brewing methods unlock unique aromas and tastes. The on-site tea room offers a tranquil space to enjoy local confections with handcrafted brews, while the regional history exhibit reveals the deep roots of tea cultivation and ancient artifacts from the Jomon era. Don’t miss the Green Teabox gift shop, where you can take home premium teas or indulge in a seasonal ice cream made with Kawane tea, all while watching the nostalgic steam of the Oi River Railway’s steam locomotive pass by.
Why Visit
Visit Foret Nakakawane Tea Museum to experience the only tea tasting room in the region where you can explore the nuanced flavors of Kawane tea through guided sessions that reveal how water temperature and brewing method affect taste. Discover the unique "Midorino Tamatebako" shop, home to handcrafted tea ice cream made with locally grown Kawane tea and served with views of the historic SL steam train on the Oi River Railway.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor locally crafted teas and seasonal treats in a serene setting at Foret Nakakawane Tea Museum roadside station.
Kawane Tea Garden Café
川根茶縁喫茶
Specialty
A serene tea experience with traditional Japanese tea culture
A tranquil café where visitors can enjoy the rich flavors of Kawane tea in a peaceful, nature-inspired setting. The atmosphere blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comfort, offering a relaxing space to savor tea and reflect.
Shopping Highlights
Discover a curated selection of premium teas and regional specialties at Foret Nakakawane Tea Museum roadside station.
Green Tea Gift Shop
お土産処「緑のたまてばこ」
A dedicated shop offering a wide variety of Kawane tea products, from everyday tea packs to premium selections, along with tea-themed souvenirs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Homemade Ice Cream with Kawane Tea
Featured Products
Explore signature teas and local delicacies that capture the essence of Kawane’s rich tea heritage.
Mini Tea Box
ミニ茶箱
A compact, beautifully designed tea box ideal for gifting or personal use. Features a traditional Japanese aesthetic and is perfect for storing tea leaves.
Kawane Tea Pack
川根茶一煎パック
Single-serving tea packets made from fresh, locally harvested Kawane tea leaves. Convenient and easy to brew, perfect for daily enjoyment.
Kawane Black Tea
川根紅茶
Premium black tea crafted from high-quality tea leaves grown in the Kawane region. Known for its smooth, rich flavor and aromatic profile.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable rest areas, tea tasting zones, and scenic views at Foret Nakakawane Tea Museum roadside station.
Information Center
The information center provides visitors with details about Kawane Tea, local history, events, and nearby attractions. It also offers tea tasting experiences and serves as a hub for regional tourism information.
Inside Chameikan Tea House
Restroom
Public restrooms are available for visitors at the roadside station.
Throughout the facility, including near the tea house and gift shop
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors to use throughout the premises.
Throughout the facility, including the tea house and gift shop
Parking
Parking is available for visitors arriving by car.
Adjacent to the roadside station entrance
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging station is available for visitors using electric cars.
Near the main parking area
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitor convenience.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Nursing Room
A private nursing room is available for mothers with infants.
Inside the restroom area
Children's Play Area
A play area is available for children to enjoy while parents relax.
Near the main entrance and outdoor seating area
Onsen (Hot Spring)
A hot spring bath is available for visitors seeking relaxation and wellness.
Located within the Chameikan complex, accessible via separate entrance
Bike Rental
Bicycles can be rented for exploring the surrounding area and scenic routes.
Near the main parking area and entrance
Pet-Friendly Area
A designated pet-friendly area is available for visitors with pets.
Outside the main building, near the garden area
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on tea experiences and seasonal events at Foret Nakakawane Tea Museum roadside station.
Tea Tasting Experience
川根茶を楽しめる体験
Participants will explore the nuances of Kawane tea through different brewing methods and water temperatures, discovering variations in umami and bitterness. The experience engages all five senses, allowing visitors to deeply appreciate the tea's unique qualities in a relaxing, tranquil setting.
Duration
60 min
Make Your Own Mini Tea Box
オリジナル「ミニ茶箱」を作りませんか
Participants will create their own personalized mini tea box, learning about traditional tea packaging and design while crafting a unique keepsake.
Duration
45 min
Tea and History Viewing
お茶と歴史を観る
Visitors can explore the history of Kawane tea cultivation, spanning hundreds of years, and view artifacts such as Shado-ki Dōgu (light-blocking clay figurines) from the Yūmiya area, learning about human habitation in Kawane-moto town from the Jōmon period onward through panels and exhibits.
Duration
40 min
Special Tea Tasting Event
全国茶品評会 産地賞受賞記念 特別呈茶 第3弾
Enjoy a special tea tasting event commemorating the award-winning status of Kawane tea in the national tea evaluation contest, featuring rare and premium varieties.
Duration
60 min
Kawane Tea Festival
「川根茶フェスティバル」開催します
Join the annual Kawane Tea Festival featuring tea tastings, local crafts, performances, and special events celebrating the region's tea culture and heritage.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor activities may be affected by rain; check for updates
Insider Tips
Plan your visit to avoid water day closures and arrive early for the best selection of limited-edition teas.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM to secure a seat at the tea tasting counter before the 10:00 AM opening, as seating fills quickly during peak hours
- Hidden Gem: Visit the deli counter at "Midori no Tamatebako" between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM to find the limited-time seasonal green tea parfait, available only on weekdays
- Weekend Special: On weekends, join the 11:30 AM tea ceremony demonstration in the tea room to experience the traditional preparation of Kawane tea using a bamboo scoop and a ceramic chawan
- Special Offer: Ask staff at the "Midori no Tamatebako" counter about the daily "Special Present" — a free sample of a new tea blend during the 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM window
- Unique Experience: Participate in the "Mini Tea Box Making" workshop held every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, where you can create your own personalized tea box using real tea leaves and custom labels
- Best Viewing Spot: Sit at the outdoor table near the Shizuoka Railway SL viewing area at 1:00 PM to enjoy a cup of tea while watching the steam locomotive pass by, a scheduled event every day
- Discount Tip: Purchase a "Kawane Tea Set" at "Midori no Tamatebako" between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM when the staff offer a 10% discount on all tea gift packages
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market; canola flowers peak in late March to April.
Summer (June-August): Asagimadara butterflies arrive in mid-October, but summer offers lush greenery and tea harvest activities.
Autumn (September-November): Harvest season for Kawane tea; the annual Kawane Tea Festival takes place in October.
Winter (December-February): Quiet season with limited events; ideal for peaceful tea tasting and historical exhibits.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a tea tasting experience and interactive exhibits suitable for children. Features a dedicated tea room with kid-friendly snacks. Stroller-accessible paths and clean restrooms enhance accessibility. Educational displays on local tea culture provide engaging learning opportunities.
Food Lover Review
Features a wide selection of local tea products, including premium Kawane tea and handmade ice cream using local tea. The tea room offers authentic tea tasting with traditional accompaniments. Freshly made snacks and seasonal treats enhance the culinary experience.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines for basic overnight needs. The surrounding area is quiet and scenic, ideal for a peaceful stay. Overnight parking is allowed, though not explicitly advertised; no dedicated camping facilities are available.
Scenic Beauty Review
Overlooks the natural landscape of the Kannonzaki mountain range with panoramic views. Offers multiple photo spots, especially near the tea garden and viewing platforms. Seasonal beauty is evident with changing foliage and spring tea blossoms, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.