Founded in 1832 during the Edo period, Itoh Kyuemon has long been a cornerstone of Uji City’s revered tea tradition. With nearly two centuries of expertise, the company is celebrated for crafting some of Japan’s most exquisite sencha, gyokuro, and matcha, staying true to time-honored methods while delivering unmatched quality. Working closely with skilled tea farmers in Uji Shirakawa and Ujitawara, Itoh Kyuemon sources only hand-picked first flush leaves—the most delicate and flavorful of the season. These are processed the very same day to lock in their natural freshness. From the slow, rhythmic grinding of matcha on traditional stone mills to the artisan fire-drying techniques used for sencha and gyokuro, every step reflects a deep reverence for craft and taste. Itoh Kyuemon continues to share the rich soul of Uji tea with the world—one cup at a time.
