WORLD O-CHA FESTIVAL || A Journey Through Japan’s Green Tea Culture
Every three years, Japan’s World O-Cha Festival transforms Shizuoka—the nation’s tea capital—into a vibrant celebration of one of its most revered traditions.
From April 19 to May 21, 2025, tea enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and wellness seekers will converge to experience the rich heritage, artistry, and innovation of Japanese green tea. If you’re planning a spring visit to Japan, this immersive event offers a rare opportunity to step into the world of tea, from ancient ceremonies to cutting-edge innovations.
A Multi-Sensory Celebration of Tea
The World O-Cha Festival is the country’s most extensive tea-focused event, drawing thousands of visitors from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply enjoy a soothing cup of matcha, the festival offers something for everyone.
A traditional tea ceremony is a calming and meditative experience.
Held at Shizuoka’s Tea Museum and the Shizuoka Tea Market, as well as select locations in Tokyo and the Kansai region, the festival features an array of experiences. Traditional tea ceremonies, matcha preparation workshops, and tastings of the 100 Famous Teas of Shizuoka offer a deep dive into Japanese tea culture. Meanwhile, modern interpretations come to life through innovative tea-infused products, high-tech brewing devices, and interactive exhibits showcasing satellite imagery for sustainable tea farming.
For those looking to elevate their wellness journey, tea and meditative yoga sessions provide a mindful retreat amid the festivities.
Travel Tips: How to Experience the Festival
Shizuoka, located along the Tokaido Shinkansen route, is an easy trip from Japan’s major cities:
From Tokyo: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (Hikari or Kodama) from Tokyo Station to Shizuoka Station (~1 hour).
From Kyoto or Osaka: Board the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (Hikari) from Kyoto or Shin-Osaka Station (~1.5–2 hours).
From Nagoya: A quick 50-minute ride via the JR Tokaido Shinkansen.
Once in Shizuoka, visitors can take the Shizutetsu Just Line Bus to the Tea Museum in Shimada City or the Shizuoka Tea Market near Shizuoka Station.
For those exploring the Tokyo and Kansai events, venues will be accessible via local JR and metro lines, making it easy to add tea experiences to an existing itinerary.
Why Shizuoka is a Must-Visit for Tea Lovers
Beyond the festival, Shizuoka offers a year-round pilgrimage for tea enthusiasts. The rolling green tea fields of Makinohara provide breathtaking landscapes, while local cafés serve up freshly whisked matcha with picturesque views of Mt. Fuji. Many onsen resorts in the area even incorporate green tea into their wellness treatments, making for a uniquely rejuvenating experience.
Mt. Fuji provides a majestic backdrop for this serene green tea plantation in Shizuoka.
With its perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and natural beauty, the World O-Cha Festival is more than just an event—it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in Japan’s enduring tea culture. Whether you come for the ceremonies, tastings, or simply a moment of tranquillity, this festival promises an unforgettable journey steeped in history and flavour.
To learn more about all the festivities happening during the World O-cha Festival, visit the website here.
Cover image courtesy of JNTO
