We are visiting Japan at the start of rainy season which has not slowed us down at all.  We have had many gorgeous days though.

This day we took the train and then a taxi to Maruku-Koyamaen matcha factory.  https://www.marukyu-koyamaen.co.jp/english/factory.html

This is not at all a tourist hot spot and our group was large.  They were so gracious and we had the best tour.  The factory is sealed and the staff wear respirators and protective suits.  There is a green layer of matcha dust on everything!

After the factory tour, some of us went to the oldest tea shop in Japan for lunch.  It was built in 1160.    https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tsuen_Tea

Next stop was Byodu-in temple  https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3923.html which was built in 998.

At the front gate we ran into a group of Japanese high schoolers holding up signs “Please speak English to me”.  Who could resist that?  They wrote down what we said and did a great job answering back. 

Dinner was yakitori which is chicken on a stick.

Eggplant with a miso sauce

Corn tempura which is fantastic!