This is a historic and prestigious tea merchant located on the bustling Byodoin Omotesando street. With a legacy spanning over 450 years, Kanbayashi is one of the most respected names in the Uji tea industry.
The Look: A refined, traditional storefront that reflects its long history. It serves as both a premium tea retail shop and a take-away tea stand.
The Vibe: Authentic and professional. While the street is busy with tourists, this shop maintains the dignity of an ancient tea house. It is the perfect place for those seeking "real" Uji tea.
Premium Tea Leaves: They specialize in high-grade Matcha, Gyokuro, and Sencha. Their tea was historically supplied to the Shogunate, marking it as some of the finest in Japan.
Take-away Matcha Drinks: They offer freshly whisked Matcha and Matcha lattes for visitors to enjoy while walking. These are known for having a deep, authentic bitterness and aroma compared to standard cafe drinks.
Tea-Flavored Sweets: You can find high-quality tea-flavored chocolates and cookies that make excellent gifts.