The Tea Boom Is Here! Experience Traditional and Innovative Japanese Tea in Minato Ward
"Japanese tea" and "matcha" have spread not only within Japan but also throughout Asia, Europe, and the United States, sparking a major trend fueled by growing health consciousness and interest in Japanese cuisine. In fact, exports of Japanese tea have been steadily increasing, and the boom has even been featured in special segments on terrestrial TV news programs. In response to this growing global interest, many foreign tourists are visiting Japan hoping to savor delicious tea in its country of origin. Amid this trend, Minato Ward is home to numerous renowned establishments that not only cherish time-honored traditions but also propose new ways to enjoy tea by incorporating modern sensibilities. In this article, we’ve carefully selected and introduce four distinctive establishments—ranging from serene tea houses that let you escape the hustle and bustle of the city, to airy cafes perfect for everyday use, and even long-established shops offering innovative takeout options. Join us as we explore the profound and ever-evolving world of Japanese tea.
Experience the Serene Atmosphere of a Tea Ceremony at “Matsubaya Saryo · Hakobune GALLERY”
On Antique Street in Minami-Aoyama, there was a hidden gem called “Matsubaya Saryo · Hakobune GALLERY” that made you momentarily forget the hustle and bustle of the city. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a serene space where the lighting has been deliberately dimmed. The sight of seasonal bonsai, antique art, and contemporary art illuminated by soft light makes it feel as though you’ve wandered into another world.
It is precisely because of the dim lighting that we can focus solely on what is right in front of us and appreciate the delicate branching of the bonsai and the texture of the antique art objects.
The shop features “Ryokukan-an,” a one-tatami-mat tea room designed by the Tsubaki Architecture and Design Institute, and offers a sound therapy experience that soothes visitors’ minds not only through sight and taste, but also through the “space” and “silence” inherent in the environment itself.
The teas they offer consist primarily of “single-origin” leaves carefully selected from contracted farmers across the country. Many of these teas, which reflect the unique characteristics of their local terroir, are grown using pesticide-free or organic methods; in fact, staff members sometimes travel to the growing regions to experience tea picking firsthand.
They are also meticulous about their brewing methods, adjusting the brewing temperature and time down to the second to bring out the tea leaves’ natural sweetness and umami to the fullest. In addition to sencha, they also offer gyokuro. A cup carefully brewed right before your eyes across the counter unfurls a rich umami flavor reminiscent of dashi, with a gentle taste that minimizes bitterness.
The recommended item is the “Matcha Tiramisu,” which is finished with a sprinkle of fragrant matcha right after you order. Made with only simple ingredients and no additives, it leaves a surprisingly light aftertaste. The “Two Teas, Two Sweets” course, where you can freely combine several types of tea and sweets, is also popular. You can enjoy your own unique pairing tailored to your mood that day. The sweets are reportedly made fresh every morning in the workshop located in the same building, so you can savor them right after they’re made.
The shop attracts a wide range of visitors, from foreign tourists to Japan who express surprise, saying, “I never imagined there would be a place right in the heart of Tokyo where I could experience Zen in such a peaceful setting,” to young Japanese people who take photos of their favorite character’s acrylic figurines alongside bonsai trees. Events where visitors can experience traditional seasonal customs—such as year-end shimenawa-making workshops and mochi-pounding—are also reportedly very popular.
In today’s world, where Japan’s traditional culture and agricultural techniques are gradually being lost, “Matsubaya Saryo · Ark GALLERY” aspires to be a place that reinterprets Japanese aesthetics—such as tea, bonsai, and architecture—through a contemporary lens, passing them on to the next generation and to the world. In today’s world, where we are constantly surrounded by digital devices, this establishment could truly be called a “sanctuary for the soul.” Why not spend some quiet time reflecting on yourself while enjoying a cup of the finest tea?
《松葉屋茶寮・方舟GALLERY》
東京都港区南青山5-4-27 Barbizon104 1F
営業時間：10:00～20:00（L.O19:30）
定休日：不定休
※その他、詳しくは下記の公式サイトへ
https://mtbysr.jp/
東京都港区南青山5-4-27 Barbizon104 1F
営業時間：10:00～20:00（L.O19:30）
定休日：不定休
※その他、詳しくは下記の公式サイトへ
https://mtbysr.jp/
A Relaxing Tea Time at “CHAYA 1899 TOKYO”
“CHAYA 1899 TOKYO,” which operates under the concept of “Bringing a leisurely pace to everyday life at a neighborhood teahouse,” is a Japanese tea specialty café integrated with a hotel in the Shimbashi and Onarimon area. Operated by the long-established hotel and restaurant management company “Ryumeikan,” the brand takes its name from the year the company was founded: 1899. Throughout the café, thoughtful touches are scattered everywhere to allow guests to experience the charm of tea through all five senses, creating a pleasant harmony between a modern, open atmosphere and the warmth of traditional Japanese aesthetics.
Sunlight filters through the trees into the shop, creating a calm atmosphere reminiscent of the "engawa" (veranda) of a traditional Japanese house.
In this bright, glass-enclosed space, you can enjoy a lively conversation or relax with a cup of tea while reading a book. It’s the perfect place to spend your time however you like.
In this bright, glass-enclosed space, you can enjoy a lively conversation or relax with a cup of tea while reading a book. It’s the perfect place to spend your time however you like.
The pendant lights, inspired by traditional Japanese umbrellas, are a real eye-catcher. Also worth noting are the floor tiles, which depict a combination of four-and-a-half-tatami mats, and the tea caddies displayed as interior decor.
On the shelves at the back of the café are packages of tea-inspired sweets and a variety of tea ware that showcases the craftsmanship of the artisans. In addition, there are Western books that trace the history of matcha and specialized books on matcha confections, offering a vision of “a lifestyle with tea” that goes beyond a simple display.
When you visit this shop, be sure to try their signature product, “Rokusencha.” This original tea is a blend created exclusively for this brand by master tea artisan Keiji Miyano, who carefully selected tea leaves from six renowned tea-producing regions: Kakegawa, Motoyama, Sayama, Yame, Miyakonojo/Kushima, and Chiran. With just one sip, a rich umami flavor fills your mouth, followed by a refreshing astringency and the aroma of green tea that lingers pleasantly on the palate.
For the first infusion, our staff carefully controls the temperature to ensure it is served at its most delicious. After that, you can use the included hot water bottle to prepare the second and third infusions yourself, allowing you to enjoy the changing flavors.
The “Thick Matcha Latte” has garnered enthusiastic support from matcha lovers. A key feature is that you can choose from four different levels of matcha—ranging from 3g to 6g. Being able to customize the strength to your liking is a delightful perk unique to specialty shops. The rich flavor of matcha blends seamlessly with the smoothness of the milk, accented by a refreshing bitterness—a taste that will have you coming back for more.
We also recommend their sweets, such as matcha bread, sake-tea cake, and gelato. The “Kocha” gelato, made with 3.5% high-quality Uji matcha—the same kind used in the tea ceremony—is simply exquisite. The food menu is also extensive, and the “Japanese Broth Keema Curry”—which has advanced to the finals of the Kanda Curry Grand Prix for three consecutive years—is a popular lunch-time choice.
At “CHAYA 1899 TOKYO,” the staff focuses on promoting the enjoyment of tea through activities such as the monthly “Tea College” Japanese tea seminars. It is said that many customers are captivated by the profound world of tea after experiencing it at the shop. Cherishing the tea philosophy of “ichi-go ichi-e” and welcoming guests with heartfelt hospitality, this establishment—located right in the heart of the city—can truly be called a “modern teahouse” where visitors can relax completely.
《CHAYA 1899 TOKYO》
東京都港区新橋6-4-1ホテル1899東京1F
営業時間：朝食7:30～10:30、カフェ11:00～17:00（L.O16:30）
定休日：不定休
※その他、詳しくは下記の公式サイトへ
https://1899.jp/hotels/tokyo/chaya-1899-tokyo/
東京都港区新橋6-4-1ホテル1899東京1F
営業時間：朝食7:30～10:30、カフェ11:00～17:00（L.O16:30）
定休日：不定休
※その他、詳しくは下記の公式サイトへ
https://1899.jp/hotels/tokyo/chaya-1899-tokyo/
Find Your Perfect Cup of Coffee at “Nakamura Tokichi Azabudai”
Azabudai Hills is attracting attention as a new landmark in Tokyo. Located in Garden Plaza B there is the “Nakamura Tokichi Azabudai Store,” which opened in November 2023 as a takeout branch of the long-established company headquartered in Uji, Kyoto. Since its founding in the first year of the Ansei era, Nakamura Tokichi has pursued the essence of tea, and here, it showcases the appeal of Japanese tea through a new, takeout-focused concept.
The first thing that catches your eye is the Japanese tea tasting area located right next to the noren curtain. Guided by the staff, you can sample about 10 different types of tea—including sencha, gyokuro, and hojicha—and experience the differences in their aromas and flavors.
Once you find your favorite tea, you can enjoy it plain, or try it in creative blends or as a dessert drink. The very process of choosing the perfect cup for yourself is exciting.
"Nakamura Tea," named after our shop, is a special blend of seven different types of tea leaves—including sencha and gyokuro—combined in a secret ratio. By blending multiple tea leaves using this secret ratio and method, we’ve crafted a tea that tastes delicious no matter who brews it. It is mellow yet refreshing; light yet full-bodied. Its greatest appeal lies in the ever-changing flavor profile: depending on the temperature, the refreshing quality of sencha stands out, while the rich umami of gyokuro comes to the fore.
We also recommend the “Matcha (Usucha) and Milk” matcha latte, which features a rich, distinctive aroma. “Tencha,” the raw material used to make matcha, is grown in the shade to accumulate umami compounds and is carefully ground in a stone mill to produce extremely fine, aromatic particles. This latte, made by combining this high-quality matcha with milk, is characterized by a deep, mellow sweetness and a rich, complex aroma. With growing health consciousness, more and more people are customizing their drinks to suit their preferences—such as substituting milk with oat milk or soy milk, or enjoying the authentic taste of matcha without syrup.
The “Maruto Drink [Matcha],” which combines tea with fresh matcha jelly, matcha crumble, and cream, is popular as a “drinkable Japanese tea dessert.” “Maruto” is also the trade name of “Nakamura Tokichi,” and the drink’s surface features a design depicting a circle with a “10” inside.
In addition to tea and dessert drinks, the Azabudai branch offers a wide selection of merchandise, including tea bags and sweets. It’s a great spot to drop by while shopping or strolling through Azabudai Hills. The “Nakamura Tokichi Azabudai Branch” cherishes traditional craftsmanship while offering options tailored to today’s fast-paced lifestyle. Through tea tastings, conversations with staff, and an original drink menu, you’re sure to discover the new charms of Japanese tea.
Enjoy Tea in the Interactive Space at “Ippodo Tea Shop, Aoyama”
It’s about a 10-minute walk from Omotesando Station toward the Nezu Museum.
Located just past the street lined with many fashion brand stores is the “Ippodo Tea Shop Aoyama,” which opened on August 29, 2025.
Located just past the street lined with many fashion brand stores is the “Ippodo Tea Shop Aoyama,” which opened on August 29, 2025.
The store is located on the second floor of the building, up the stairs. In addition to matcha, it offers a wide variety of Japanese teas, including gyokuro, sencha, and bancha (such as hojicha and komecha). . It’s a space where you can enjoy all things tea-related, featuring not only a tea shop but also a tea lounge where you can learn how to brew tea and discover new ways to enjoy it, as well as occasional tea-themed events.
Ippodo Tea was founded in 1717. It is a long-established shop that has been sincerely dedicated to Japanese tea for over 300 years. With its Kyoto flagship store at the center, the company has continued to evolve with the times and now delivers Japanese tea to many people both in Japan and abroad.
The Ippodo Tea Shop Aoyama branch was designed around the concept of “Encountering Tea Leaves in Aoyama.” The core of the store’s design reflects our desire to create a space where customers can enjoy a quiet moment of reflection with tea leaves right in the heart of the city.
The Ippodo Tea Shop Aoyama branch was designed around the concept of “Encountering Tea Leaves in Aoyama.” The core of the store’s design reflects our desire to create a space where customers can enjoy a quiet moment of reflection with tea leaves right in the heart of the city.
"SEIZAN" is a matcha created exclusively for the Aoyama store. Unlike the rich, full-bodied flavor of Ippodo’s standard matcha, it is said to feature a refreshing, light taste with a subdued bitterness. It retains a distinct umami flavor, making it enjoyable even for those unfamiliar with matcha, and can be enjoyed whether prepared as koicha or usucha.
The food menu is also unique. It features a variety of items designed to broaden your horizons in the world of Japanese tea, such as a set of toast from “Pan-ya Shiomi” served with jam by Hiroko Tanaka, founder of CrēAPA, paired with tea; a combination of dashi-flavored inari sushi from “Dashi Inari Kaiki” and tea; and “Matcha Goomon,” which lets you savor three different types of matcha.
The store is staffed by tea experts who are always on hand to help you choose from the wide variety of Japanese teas available on the shelves—including matcha, gyokuro, sencha, and bancha (hojicha and genmaicha)—ranging from teas that are easy to incorporate into your daily life to brands perfect for gifts.
In addition, the store offers a wide selection of tea accessories—such as teapots—to make your tea time even more enjoyable and relaxing. These items are beautifully displayed on the sales floor.
In the spring of 2026, “Room Ippodo,” a space equipped with kitchen facilities, is scheduled to open in Kojimachi, Tokyo. In collaboration with the Aoyama store, the plan is to create a space where visitors can experience the world of Ippodo in a more immersive way.
Why not spend a quiet moment enjoying the tea leaves at Ippodo Tea Shop Aoyama, located right in the heart of the city?
In addition, the store offers a wide selection of tea accessories—such as teapots—to make your tea time even more enjoyable and relaxing. These items are beautifully displayed on the sales floor.
In the spring of 2026, “Room Ippodo,” a space equipped with kitchen facilities, is scheduled to open in Kojimachi, Tokyo. In collaboration with the Aoyama store, the plan is to create a space where visitors can experience the world of Ippodo in a more immersive way.
Why not spend a quiet moment enjoying the tea leaves at Ippodo Tea Shop Aoyama, located right in the heart of the city?