Tokyo is a paradise for matcha lovers, with everything from traditional tea ceremonies to modern-style lattes. Rooted in Japanese tea culture, loved for its unique flavor and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a matcha lover or new to this vibrant green drink, there’s plenty to explore in Japan’s capital city. This guide will introduce you to the best matcha in Tokyo, from traditional teahouses to modern cafes and hidden gems.
The best places to taste matcha in Tokyo
There are many different places to experience matcha in the Japanese capital.
- Traditional Matcha: For those seeking an authentic Japanese tea experience, Tokyo’s teahouses offer a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. These spaces allow you to witness the meticulous rituals and exquisite atmosphere of the traditional matcha tea ceremony.
- Modern Matcha: Tokyo’s modern matcha cafes cater to the more playful side of matcha, offering innovative desserts, drinks and everything in between. These places blend tradition with creativity, offering options like matcha lattes, parfaits and even matcha tiramisu.
Platinum Taimuan
The Mu-an Tea Room within Happo-en is the ideal place for those seeking a matcha meditative experience amid lush greenery. Sip matcha in a historic setting, surrounded by koi ponds and ancient bonsai trees. Reservations are required to attend the ceremony.
Asakusa Tea Front
Tea ceremony expert Rie Takeda appears on television teaching the art of matcha. She teaches thoughtful classes in English at Chazen so they are accessible to both short-term and long-term guests. If you wish, you can wear a kimono and learn how to participate in a tea ceremony from an experienced tea ceremony master. Be sure to book in advance.
Saryotsujiri, Ginza
Saryo Tsujiri is a renowned Kyoto matcha brand overlooking the Ginza skyline, serving Instagram-worthy matcha creations from classic drinks to matcha parfaits and matcha noodles. This cafe is a popular spot for locals and tourists looking for innovative matcha cuisine and impressive city views.
Qingshan Nanami, Qingshan
Matcha ice cream in seven different strengths: There’s a reason tourists and locals alike flock to Aoyama Nanani. Grown in nearby Shizuoka Prefecture, this special matcha ice cream alone is worth a visit.
Hatota Asakusa
Green lovers should head to this Instagrammable matcha specialty shop in Asakusa. From matcha lattes to matcha pour-overs and even matcha mochi, everything seems to glow with a bright green glow, giving you a blast of energy. The drink comes from Kyoto, the home of matcha.
Cafe Chairo, Omotesando
Cafe Chairo is run by a former architect in a space he built himself, located behind Cat Street in Omotesando. This all-vegan cafe makes almost everything from scratch, such as cashews and rice milk. As you sip, enjoy the company of the most beautiful cat we’ve ever seen, Kim, who rules this matcha paradise.
Yoyogi’s dream
Kantan na Yume is a quaint Japanese dessert shop that Tokyo Weekend recently reported on. Owner Juri Tanaka takes her matcha very seriously and serves it ceremoniously at her shop in Tokyo’s Yoyogi district.
Bunko City Miyano Hot Spring
The revamped sento includes matcha latte and espresso; what’s not to love about Miyano-yu? This place is perfect for the Instagram crowd as it contains two quintessentially Japanese elements: matcha and bathing. Pets are allowed, so it’s no surprise that it’s a neighborhood favorite.