The best green teahouses in Central Tokyo
An authentic green teahouse experience is a must for anyone visiting Japan. Sipping matcha on a tatami mat while overlooking a serene pond - it’s such a special zen-like vibe that can only be experienced in Japan. Each shop offers seasonal wagashi, handmade Japanese confectionery, like sakura in the Spring and chestnut in Autumn. From traditional to casual, below are some of the best Tokyo has to offer.
Nakajima-no-ochaya near Ginza
The peaceful Nakajima-no-ochaya is located on a pond inside Hamarikyu Gardens. They offer two different green tea sets, and both come with a seasonal wagashi, a handmade Japanese confectionery. Take off your shoes and enjoy it on their tatami mat seating, or if the weather allows, on a patio bench.
Kosoan in Jiyugaoka
Kosoan feels extra special with a traditional living room feel overlooking a quaint garden. They also offer kakigori or Japanese shaved ice, in the summer, and anmitsu or red bean, kanten jelly, and matcha ice cream fruit parfait, all year long. The main entrance is easy to miss, but that’s so common with every amazing locals only spot, right? If i had to choose just one from this entire post, definitely put Kosoan high on your to visit list.
Ippodo Tea in Marunouchi
Ippodo Tea is a three century year old Kyoto based company offering premium Japanese green teas and handmade seasonal wagashi. Their menu is full of all different types of high quality matcha and green teas, hot or iced. Sip tea in their sleek tearoom, or buy their loose leaf tea & matcha products to go. They also sell various tea tools, teapots, and ceramic bowls too. No better place to buy authentic tea tools than from the tea experts themselves.
Saryo in Setagaya
Saryo has a more modern and minimalist approach to the green tea experience. Specializing in a unique hand drip style similar to coffee. They only take reservations now, ever since covid, so be sure to check out their availability before visiting.
photo by Tokyo Saryo
Sakurai in Aoyama
Located on the 5th floor of the Spiral Building, Sakurai is a high-end green tea and cocktail experience. Each drink is made with such care and high attention to detail. Try making reservations ahead of time since the seating is limited.
Hachiya Teastand near Harajuku
Hachiya Teastand makes top quality green tea drinks for takeaway or dining in, with a more casual vibe. The menu is very diverse with their green tea being paired with milk options, sweet red bean, smoothie, sparkling soda, or ice cream. They also have a small retail counter with loose leaf teas and other tools.
Higashiya in Ginza
Probably the most elegant of the list is Higashiya located in the POLA Beauty Building. Their strict no photo policy gives it an exclusive vibe that rarely exists these days. The menu ranges from a single cup of tea and handmade wagashi, to full course tea and sweets experience. Everything is made with such careful attention to detail with the most unique blends of green tea, like hints of Yuzu or a smokey finish. They also serve lunch and early dinner meals.
