Sayama New Tea & Flowers Festival 2026

Tastings and sales of freshly picked Sayama new tea are the main attraction. Tea-picking experiences and hand-rolled tea demonstrations are available on a first-come basis, offering a close-up look at the tea-making process. Don't miss the koto music tea ceremony, free flower giveaway, and premium raffle for new tea purchasers.

First held in 2007, the festival has grown from a small local event into a beloved spring tradition over nearly 20 years. The 2024 edition attracted about 2,800 visitors. During the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021), the event was canceled. It resumed in 2022 with reduced scale and returned to full scale in 2023. Though small in scale, it is cherished as a rare opportunity to experience the fresh tea-making process of Sayama, one of Japan's three major tea-producing regions.

About 8 minutes walk from Sayama-shi Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line. Free parking available at the venue (Sayama City Hall, about 70 spaces). Spaces are limited, so public transportation is recommended.

Typical attendance is about 2,800 visitors. Tea-picking experience is first-come, first-served and ends when tea leaves run out, so arrive before the 10:00 start time. The event ends at 13:30, so early arrival is advisable.

Free admission. Bring cash for tea purchases. Towels or wet wipes are handy as hands may get dirty during tea-picking. Late April weather can vary, so bringing a light jacket is recommended.