Matsue is a city where tea culture is deeply rooted in daily life. This tour begins at the historic Karakoro Art Studio, where you will craft two seasonal sweets, nerikiri and kinton, under the guidance of master artisans from the 150-year-old Saiundo. It is a luxurious opportunity to experience traditional Japanese aesthetics firsthand.

Next, carry your handmade sweets to the scenic organic tea garden of "Oba Sorayama." Protected by sacred shrines, the farm "Matsue Takarabako" has practiced eco-friendly, pesticide-free farming for 30 years by recycling local resources into rich soil. Enjoy a peaceful moment connecting with both Matsue’s timeless traditions and its sustainable, healthy future.

・Discover Bancha: San'in’s Everyday Tea Culture Bancha has been a beloved staple in the Izumo region of Shimane for centuries. Unlike standard tea, these large, mature leaves are dried without being rolled and then roasted to perfection. The result is a refreshing, aromatic flavor with very little bitterness. It is so gentle on the body that it’s affectionately called Baby Bancha, making it safe for everyone from infants to the elderly. Enjoyed either hot or cold, it is a tea deeply rooted in the local lifestyle.

・Karakoro Art Studio: History Brought to Life Your wagashi-making experience takes place in a grand historic building, originally constructed in 1938 as the Bank of Japan’s Matsue Branch. The majestic exterior columns, the second-floor corridors, and the massive vault doors in the basement remain as they were, preserving the elegance of early 20th-century bank architecture. After your workshop, enjoy a relaxing lunch at the terrace cafe or explore the charming shopping streets along the castle moat.