The main Ippodo shop is in Kyoto, but there are also outlets in Tokyo’s Marunouchi district, New York City, and an online shop that handles international orders. Their tea comes from the famed Uji region of Kyoto. The Ippodo Tokyo Marunouchi Store is one of the most famous places to relax and enjoy tea in Tokyo.

Conveniently located in the Marunouchi District near Hibiya Station, Yurakucho Station, and even a short, scenic walk from the famed Tokyo Station, Ippodo seeks to appeal to just about everyone. There’s plenty of English guidance, left-handed teapots, and an open area with no stairs to navigate. With comfort in mind, there are fans at the table for hot summer temperatures and blankets to rest on your lap in the wintertime.

The staff will instruct you step-by-step, but don’t be afraid to ask questions. The staff are knowledgeable and eager to help you enjoy your tea drinking experience.

There are four main categories of tea that they offer. Bancha is a kind of Japanese green tea harvested later than others. Gyokuro is green tea that has been grown in the shade differing from sencha, which is grown in full sunlight. Matcha is a fine powder of green tea grown and processed in a special way (although not all powdered tea is considered matcha).

At first glance, the prices may seem high, but you can re-steep your tea as much as you’d like. An order of bancha, for example, could produce anywhere from 2-5 pots of tea. Matcha lovers can enjoy choosing between koicha (very thick consistency) and usucha (thinner in consistency and easier to drink). Koicha matcha only yields about two cups, but it’s worth the experience. Don’t let the bright green paint-like consistency fool you – this is pure matcha bliss!

Each order of tea comes with a sweet Japanese tea snack. These sweet treats are paired with your specific type of tea for balance and they vary by season.

You can venture into the store anytime to pick up some tea in their store area. Ippodo tea is quite well-known, so it makes a perfect gift. In the summertime, grab an Uji Shimizu, a sweet iced matcha drink, and enjoy it while strolling the beautiful Marunouchi shopping area.

You can learn more about different kinds of tea and how to make them in the Kaboku Tearoom, no reservations necessary. Get more information about Ippodo here.

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