Sip the Essence of Japan’s Premier Green Tea
Nestled along the serene upper reaches of the Ayahana River in Fujieda, Shizuoka Prefecture, Gyokuro no Sato is a roadside station where tradition, nature, and craftsmanship converge. Situated in one of Japan’s three famed gyokuro tea-producing regions—alongside Uji and Yame—this tranquil destination offers a rare immersion in the art of tea culture. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling tea fields, the station blends rustic charm with refined elegance.
At the heart of Gyokuro no Sato lies Hyougete, a traditional tea house where visitors can savor the delicate, sweet notes of premium gyokuro, paired with handcrafted wagashi. The on-site market, Chano Haten, features local specialties including fresh bamboo shoots, shiitake mushrooms, and regional sake. For a deeper experience, explore seasonal events like the Wind Chime Path or the Autumn Festival, or enjoy a quiet moment in the hidden café, Usagi no Kakurega. This is more than a stop—it’s a journey into Japan’s tea heritage.
Why Visit
Gyokuro no Sato stands as the only roadside station in Japan’s famed trio of gyokuro tea regions, offering exclusive access to the nation’s highest-grade gyokuro. Visitors can experience tea ceremonies in the traditional Hyogeteitei tea house, where rare, handcrafted gyokuro is served with seasonal wagashi, a sensory journey unmatched elsewhere. The on-site Chano-hanatei market features unique local specialties like gyokuro-infused soba noodles and freshly harvested bamboo shoots, all sourced from the surrounding terraced tea fields along the pristine Aohi River.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor exquisite local flavors at Gyokuro no Sato, where tea-infused dishes and seasonal ingredients delight the palate.
Tea Pavilion
瓢月亭
Specialty
Premium matcha tea served in a traditional Japanese tea room
A serene, traditional Japanese tea house with a refined atmosphere, offering the finest quality matcha known as gyokuro, renowned for its sweet, mellow flavor and unique aroma. The setting provides a peaceful retreat from daily life, surrounded by natural beauty.
Tea Pavilion Market
茶の華亭
Specialty
Local cuisine using regional ingredients and matcha
A dining space within the market hall that offers meals crafted with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh produce and matcha, blending traditional flavors with seasonal freshness in a welcoming setting.
Shopping Highlights
Discover unique local treasures and handmade goods at the roadside station's vibrant market.
Tea Pavilion Market
茶の華亭
A retail space offering a variety of local products including matcha, seasonal vegetables, mushrooms, local sake, and tea-related items.
Products
Must-Try Item
Premium matcha tea
Rabbit's Hideaway Cafe
うさぎの隠れ家
A cozy, hidden-style café located on the second floor of the Tea Pavilion Market, offering light snacks and beverages with a tranquil atmosphere.
Products
Must-Try Item
Matcha latte
Featured Products
Experience signature items like premium Gyokuro tea, fresh bamboo shoots, and regional delicacies.
Premium Matcha Tea
玉露茶
High-grade matcha tea from one of Japan's three major production regions, known for its sweet, mellow taste and distinctive aroma.
Fresh Bamboo Shoots
竹の子
Freshly harvested bamboo shoots from the local region, known for their tender texture and delicate flavor.
Dried Shiitake Mushrooms
しいたけ
Premium dried shiitake mushrooms harvested locally, prized for their rich umami flavor.
Local Sake
地酒
Handcrafted sake produced in the region, reflecting the local terroir and traditional brewing methods.
Matcha Tea Set
抹茶セット
A complete set of traditional tea utensils for preparing and serving matcha, including a chawan, chashaku, and chasen.
Matcha Sweets
抹茶菓子
Traditional Japanese sweets made with matcha, offering a balanced blend of sweetness and earthy tea flavor.
Facilities & Amenities
Relax and explore with thoughtful amenities including restrooms, parking, and serene garden views.
Parking Area
The roadside station has parking space for 91 regular cars and 3 large vehicles.
At the roadside station premises
Restroom
There are 6 male toilets and 5 female toilets available. The facility includes a ramp for accessibility.
At the roadside station premises
Information Center
The roadside station features an information corner where visitors can find details about local attractions, events, and services.
Inside the roadside station
Japanese Garden
The station includes a traditional Japanese garden with scenic views, offering a peaceful environment for relaxation and enjoyment of seasonal beauty.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Chashitsu Hyogetutei (Tea Room)
A traditional Japanese tea house styled in sukiya-zukuri architecture, where visitors can experience premium matcha or gyokuro tea with traditional sweets in a serene atmosphere.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Chanohanatei & Bussankan (Food Hall & Market)
A dining and souvenir shop offering local products such as gyokuro tea, fresh agricultural produce, tea sweets, and tea ware. The restaurant serves dishes made with local ingredients including tea soba.
Inside the roadside station
Usagi no Kakurega & Cafe (Rabbit's Hideaway Cafe)
A cozy hidden café located on the second floor of the Chanohanatei & Bussankan. Offers a variety of coffee and light meals in a tranquil setting.
Second floor of Chanohanatei & Bussankan
Public Wi-Fi
Free public Wi-Fi is available at the roadside station for visitors.
Throughout the station premises
EV Charging Station
Electric vehicle charging facilities are available at the roadside station for visitors using electric vehicles.
At the roadside station premises
ATM
An ATM is available on-site for visitors to withdraw cash.
Near the entrance of the roadside station
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal events, tea ceremonies, and hands-on workshops amidst tranquil nature.
Tea Tasting Experience at Hyogetsutei
茶室「瓢月亭」
Participants will enjoy high-quality matcha or gyokuro tea with traditional Japanese sweets in a serene tea house surrounded by natural scenery.
Duration
60 min
Seasonal Festival: Autumn Festival 2025
玉露の里「秋まつり2025」
Join the annual autumn festival featuring local crafts, traditional performances, seasonal food, and cultural activities celebrating the harvest season.
Duration
180 min
Outdoor events may be affected by rain; check for updates.
Summer Festival: Summer Festival 2025
玉露の里「夏まつり2025」
Experience a lively summer celebration with traditional music, local food stalls, and seasonal decorations, including the famous wind chime path.
Duration
240 min
Events may be rescheduled due to heavy rain or high temperatures.
Wind Chime Path Experience
玉露の里 風鈴の小径
Stroll along a scenic path lined with traditional wind chimes, enjoying the gentle sounds and seasonal atmosphere during summer.
Duration
30 min
Best enjoyed on clear, breezy days; may be closed during heavy rain.
Moon Viewing Festival 2025
玉露の里「2025年観月祭」
Participate in a traditional moon viewing ceremony with tea, seasonal snacks, and cultural performances under the full moon.
Duration
120 min
Event may be canceled or postponed due to cloudy or rainy weather.
Traditional Tea Garden Walk
茶花園散策
Walk through a beautifully maintained Japanese tea garden featuring seasonal tea flowers, offering a peaceful and immersive cultural experience.
Duration
45 min
Best enjoyed on clear, mild days; avoid during heavy rain.
Wedding Photo Shoot at Gyokuro-no-Sato
結婚式前撮りプラン
Book a pre-wedding photo shoot in the serene tea garden and historic surroundings of Gyokuro-no-Sato, perfect for capturing timeless Japanese elegance.
Duration
120 min
Outdoor shoots depend on weather conditions; rescheduling may be required.
Corporate Retreat and Mindfulness Workshop
研修プラン
Participate in a quiet retreat focused on reflection, team communication, and creative thinking in a natural, peaceful environment away from the office.
Duration
180 min
Indoor sessions available if weather is unfavorable.
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a peaceful tea experience and explore nearby historic sites.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM to secure a seat at the tea room "Hyogetsutei" before the 10:30 AM tea ceremony begins, as seating fills quickly on weekends
- Hidden Gems: Check the second-floor "Usagi no Kakurega" café’s menu for the seasonal Kukicha Matcha Latte, a limited-time drink only available during the autumn months
- Weekend Special: On Sundays, the "Tea no Hana-Tei" market features live demonstrations of traditional tea whisking by local artisans from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Best Purchase: Buy the "Fujieda Kurogaki" (black chrysanthemum tea) at the "Tea no Hana-Tei" shop before 12:00 PM, as it sells out daily by early afternoon
- Off-Peak Experience: Visit the "Hyogetsutei" tea room on weekdays between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to enjoy a private tea session with minimal noise and a view of the tea garden
- Seasonal Tip: During the "Wind Chime Path" event in summer (late June to early August), walk the garden path between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM to experience the full effect of the wind chimes synchronized with evening light
- Dining Strategy: Order the "Tea Soba Set" at "Tea no Hana-Tei" by 11:30 AM to ensure the fresh tea soba noodles are available, as they are made only once daily at 10:00 AM
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market from late March, coinciding with the start of the tea harvest season.
Summer (June–August): Enjoy the "Wind Bell Path" and summer festival events in July and August.
Autumn (September–November): Visit during the "Autumn Festival 2025" and "Moon Viewing Festival" for seasonal tea and local crafts.
Winter (December–February): Experience quiet beauty and seasonal tea tasting, with extended winter hours from December through March.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers a serene environment with a tea house and garden suitable for children. No dedicated play areas, but tea experiences and seasonal events provide engaging activities. Stroller-friendly paths and accessible restrooms support family visits.
Food Lover Review
Features diverse dining options including tea soba and local ingredient dishes. Offers premium local specialties like Gyokuro tea, fresh mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and regional sake with high-quality sourcing and unique culinary experiences.
Car Camping Review
Provides restrooms and vending machines, but lacks designated overnight parking. The quiet natural setting supports short stays, though no formal camping facilities or overnight policies are specified.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located along the clear Ayahana River with beautiful natural surroundings. Offers serene views, traditional Japanese garden aesthetics, and seasonal beauty from cherry blossoms to autumn foliage.