History and Heritage

• Founded: Established during the Tensho era (1573–1592), the shop is currently run by the 16th generation of the Kanbayashi family.

• Shogun's Tea Master: The family served as the official tea masters for the Tokugawa Shogunate and have supplied tea to the Japanese Royal Family.

• Legacy: The shop’s crest (three stars) is a registered trademark that has even been used on maps to symbolize tea plantations.

Museum and Features

• 1st Floor (Cafe & Shop): A welcoming space where you can purchase premium green tea, matcha-flavored snacks, and enjoy traditional desserts like zenzai (red bean soup with mochi) or matcha soft-serve.

• 2nd Floor (Uji Tea Reference Room): A free mini-museum displaying precious historical documents, ancient tea pots, and tea-making utensils passed down through the family for centuries. The owner often provides personal tours in English.

• 3rd Floor (Tea Room "Sankyuan"): This floor is dedicated to tea-making workshops and ceremonies.

The Matcha Experience

One of the most popular activities is the Matcha-making workshop:

• Grind Your Own: You can use a traditional stone mill to grind high-grade tea leaves into fine matcha powder.

• Instruction: You’ll be taught the correct way to whisk and prepare the tea, even if you are a beginner.

• Cost: Approximately ¥1,430 – ¥1,760 per person (includes Japanese sweets). It is highly recommended to book in advance via their website or platforms like Klook/KKday.