Hyperlocal Tokyo

There were about five staff members lined up at the counter, each offering tastings and providing service. When I entered, there happened to be no other customers, but afterwards, it was bustling with people coming and going. While it didn't have any particularly distinctive features, it was a delicious tea that would appeal to everyone.

I wanted to take a break while enjoying some delicious tea, so I stopped by! Unfortunately, the cafe space is currently closed. However, you can still purchase takeout items and gifts! I tried their popular 'shan' tea, which is recommended by the shop, and it was delicious! It had a very refreshing taste with no bitterness, and it was incredibly clear and enjoyable. Thank you for the delicious tea!

For an authentic Japanese tea experience, this is the place! This shop, ranked among the top 100 cafes on Tabelog, is particularly renowned for its Japanese tea, which piqued my interest. While many highly-rated cafes excel in their sweets or coffee, this one specializes in Japanese tea. I enjoy tea regularly, but I hadn't yet encountered truly exceptional tea, making this place particularly intriguing. Especially with temperatures soaring near 40°C lately, I craved a refreshing cold tea. Upon entering, I discovered they offered cold-brewed tea. I tried a freshly brewed cup, and it was incredible! The sweetness and savory notes blended beautifully, creating a truly resonant flavor. Honestly, I was surprised by how delicious cold-brewed tea could be. I actually came for their famous shaved ice, but it was unavailable. However, I was told they serve it at Yoshino, a traditional Japanese restaurant located behind the tea shop, along with their tea. I decided to visit Yoshino afterwards. Yoshino's staff had been personally trained by the tea shop on brewing techniques, so I was excited to experience authentic tea prepared in the traditional way. If you're a Japanese tea enthusiast or simply seeking a truly exceptional tea experience, I highly recommend visiting this place!

A Japanese tea specialty store in Ginza where you can enjoy tasting sessions @ Ginza Cafe 100 Best Stores Located a 1-minute walk from Ginza Station, I visited "Uogashi Meicha Ginza Store Cha・Ginza," one of the 100 best cafes. I arrived just before 1 p.m. on a Saturday and there was no wait. I was able to check out smoothly. The 2nd floor eat-in area is currently closed due to the pandemic. It has been converted into an exhibition space and it seems there are no plans to reopen. I tried a recommended cold tea and a warm tea and purchased "Toteshan" for ¥1,080. This tea, which means "beautiful woman" in Japanese, has a strong sweetness, low bitterness, and a clear, delicious flavor. It truly tastes like a beautiful woman! I enjoyed it to the very last drop.

This year, due to the pandemic, I couldn't enjoy the traditional New Year's tea set at the tea room, something I always look forward to. So, I settled for a lucky bag instead. I was surprised by how much it contained! I hope the tea room reopens soon. I always visit this place when I come to Tokyo! They brew the tea so deliciously. It's the best! ♡