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Tokyo Guide : Ippodo Tea Salon

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Ippodo Tea Co. is a well-known and long-established Japanese tea company, founded in 1717 in Kyoto. For over three centuries, they have been dedicated to producing high-quality tea, specializing in fine Japanese green teas like matcha, gyokuro, sencha, and bancha. Ippodo is particularly celebrated for its meticulous tea selection and blending processes, ensuring that their teas maintain consistent taste and quality over time.

The company’s philosophy emphasizes the connection between tea and everyday life, promoting tea as a means of relaxation and mindfulness. Ippodo has a flagship store in Kyoto, along with tea shops in other major cities like Tokyo and New York. They also provide workshops and detailed guidance for brewing the perfect cup, helping tea lovers around the world appreciate the depth of Japanese tea culture.

In addition to their retail and online presence, Ippodo Tea Co. has gained international recognition for its traditional and authentic approach to tea, catering to both connoisseurs and beginners alike.

At the back of Ippodo’s Kyoto flagship store, there is a dine-in space where you can enjoy tea. Take your time to relax and savor the calm atmosphere of the main store, as well as the peaceful moments that flow there!

The other day, I visited their shop in Tokyo. At the Marunouchi location, not only can you purchase tea leaves, but you can also enjoy a leisurely tea experience in the tea room at the back of the store. The shop also offers classes where you can enjoy high-quality Japanese tea and gain a wealth of knowledge about Japanese tea culture.

This time, I had the opportunity to experience a seasonal tea course where I could savor special teas for each season. The course began with iced gyokuro served in a glass, followed by seasonal hot sencha paired with a sugar confection. The third item was matcha, lightly whisked and served with a seasonal fresh wagashi. The fourth course was a surprise with its strikingly vibrant and thick matcha, served alongside a piece of raw chocolate. Finally, the experience was wrapped up with a cup of refreshing and mellow hojicha. Before I knew it, the hour had flown by.

What I rediscovered during this time was the beauty and significance of taking the time to savor tea. It deepened my desire to further explore the connection between tea and Zen principles.

As both the brewing methods and tea leaves, as well as the accompanying wagashi, change with the seasons, I highly recommend this experience not only to fans of Japanese tea but also to anyone interested in the art of savoring tea time.

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