Published date: December 9, 2024
Relaxing Tea and Conversation: A Journey of Connection in Minami Yamashiro Village
Room Type Stayed
Twin room
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Experience of the stay
During my stay, I used Fairfield by Marriott Kyoto Minami Yamashiro as a base for sightseeing in Kyoto. It was a lovely hotel where I could enjoy a comfortable stay in a quiet and nature-rich environment.
One thing I was particularly happy about was the free drinks in the lounge. Beyond the usual coffee, tea, and miso soup, I was thrilled to find that I could enjoy locally sourced green tea and hojicha, making it a unique experience exclusive to this hotel. Taking a moment to relax with a fragrant tea really healed my travel fatigue.
The guest rooms were impressive with their Marriott-like luxury and simple design, as well as exceptional cleanliness. The thoughtful amenities like water and tea made me feel the hotel's care for its guests. Furthermore, I was lucky to stay in a room with a view of the tea fields, and I couldn't help but be enchanted by the green scenery unfolding outside the window.
In the hotel lounge, local crafts and stylish interiors were beautifully arranged, and there were also books available for learning about history and culture. With the Wi-Fi and power outlets readily available, remote work while traveling was comfortable. Whether to relax on the sofa or concentrate on work at the desk, the space catered to both needs.
Another feature of this hotel is its proximity to the roadside station Minami Yamashiro Village. Here, I could enjoy local specialties and gourmet foods, especially the rich flavors of pudding and matcha soft serve made with tea. The quality of the tea really brings out such deep flavors.
For lunch, I enjoyed tea soba and tempura made with tea powder. The savory and luxurious flavors filled my mouth, providing a truly satisfying moment for both my heart and stomach.
During my stay, I was able to experience the beautiful nature of Kyoto and the local charm, spending special moments. Next time, I would love to enjoy a relaxing trip at this hotel again!
Experiences during the trip
Tea, ceramics, and human interactions—this is a journey in Minami Yamashiro that will leave a mark on your heart.
I visited Minami Yamashiro Village for an offline event hosted by HafH. The vast tea fields of Nakakubo Tea Garden, which I saw for the first time, were breathtakingly beautiful, and I was moved by the expanse of green. When I actually touched the tea leaves, I was surprised by their softness and fragrance, and I couldn't help but feel the power of nature.
In addition to exploring the tea fields, we also visited the Nakakubo Tea Garden factory. Learning up close about how tea is made was a very refreshing experience. During the tea tasting, we enjoyed the unique characteristics of various teas, and I was particularly moved by the tea with the scent of osmanthus made from spring-harvested seedlings. I also had a memorable experience grinding tea leaves by hand using traditional methods.
The next day, I visited a pottery workshop called Tropical Kiln. It was fascinating to hear directly from the artisans about their thoughts and feelings poured into each piece they create. I even purchased a mug that I instantly fell in love with; I am excited to enjoy coffee brewed by myself in this mug! There was also a workshop for making pottery using natural leaves, which I would love to try next time. This has given me one more reason to want to visit Minami Yamashiro Village again.
Additionally, the old folk house in the area that we visited during the HafH offline event was a lovely place. Enjoying tea while chatting with locals on the engawa (veranda) was exceptional, and that peaceful time was a healing moment away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This was perhaps my first experience of enjoying the luxurious time of “doing nothing” while traveling.
Throughout this journey, tea was at the center of communication. Whether it was the experiences in the tea fields, the factory tour, or the tea gathering at the old folk house, at every moment, I felt that tea connected people to one another.
In the busyness of daily life, we often forget to take the time to enjoy tea slowly. But with this trip, I want to incorporate the tea I purchased in Minami Yamashiro into my daily life and make it a point to brew it carefully. I want to carry forward the warmth and richness I felt on this journey into my future life.Get Extra Bonus Coins! Sign up with this user's referral code now!