What is Matsusaka Tea?

Matsusaka tea is a full-bodied tea grown and processed only in Matsusaka. The leaves are grown in the rich soil and mild climate of the Iinan region of Matsusaka, where the morning mist from the pristine Kushida River nourishes the leaves and gives them a distinctly mellow flavor once processed into tea. Deep-steaming, a process where tea leaves are steamed twice as long as usual for green tea, is the secret to Matsusaka tea's rich fragrance, deep green color, and outstanding umami. 

Where Can I Try Matsusaka Tea?

Matsusaka tea can be found in a wealth of tea houses and cafes located in a range from a ten minute walk from Matsusaka Station to a thirty minute drive out into the open countryside where the tea is actually grown. Below you will find a list of select establishments where you can taste this unique specialty.

Chaju

In addition to freshly roasted Matsusaka tea and hojicha, Chaju provides tea blending, kneading, and tasting workshops. Their dedication to eco-friendliness is why they use compostable materials, encourage the use of personal beverage containers, and roast all of their tea on-demand and in-house to ensure freshness and reduce food waste. Chaju also sells charming porcelain and clay teapots along with other teaware and tea-related tools. Sit back and relax inside the cozy interior while enjoying the scent of freshly roasting tea. 

Address: 819 Shinmachi, Matsusaka, Mie (Open in Google Maps)
Phone: 0598-21-0701
Hours: 10:00 - 19:00 on Monday - Friday; 10:00 - 18:00 on Saturdays and holidays
Closed: Sunday, 3rd Monday of every month
Website: https://www.cha-ju.com

Shinryoku Sabo

Shinryoku Sabo is an award-winning tea house dedicated to caring for the earth and the soil as they grow and roast the very tea they serve to their customers. Learn to brew your own cup of Matsusaka tea and savor it with your favorite sweets as you gaze out into the lush traditional garden just outside the window.

Address: 4209-2 Iinan-cho Kayumi, Matsusaka, Mie (Open in Google Maps)
Phone: 0598-32-5588
Hours: 9:00 - 17:30 pm, daily except Wednesdays (Tea is served 10:00 - 18:00)
Closed: Wednesday, Dec 31 - Jan 3
Website: https://www.shinsabo.com/