Matcha is a popular green tea powder known for its strong flavor and health benefits. Many visitors to Japan want to buy authentic matcha while they are there.
The best places to buy matcha in Japan are specialty tea shops, department stores, and markets in tea-growing regions like Uji and Shizuoka.
These locations offer high-quality matcha that comes directly from local producers. Tourists can find a variety of matcha grades, from everyday use to premium types meant for ceremonies.
Supermarkets sometimes sell matcha too, but the quality can vary.
Best Places To Buy Matcha In Japan
Matcha quality and price can vary depending on where it’s bought. Some places focus on rare, high-grade matcha, while others offer everyday options suitable for cooking and drinks.
Buyers should consider freshness, variety, and trustworthiness.
Specialty Tea Shops
Specialty tea shops are known for high-quality matcha. Many shops have been family-run for generations and source leaves directly from tea farms.
These stores often allow customers to taste matcha before buying. In Kyoto, shops like Ippodo and Marukyu Koyamaen are famous for premium powder.
The matcha here is finely ground and bright green, ideal for traditional tea ceremonies. Prices reflect quality, so expect to pay more.
Shoppers can also find detailed explanations about matcha grades. Staff usually provide good advice on how to use each type and store it properly.
Department Store Food Halls
Department store food halls, called “depachika,” offer a wide range of matcha products. These include ready-to-drink matcha, sweets, and various grades of powder.
The selection balances luxury brands with more budget-friendly options. Popular department stores in Tokyo like Mitsukoshi and Isetan have dedicated tea sections.
They often stock matcha brands that are hard to find elsewhere. This venue is convenient for tourists and locals seeking variety and quality.
Prices vary, with some luxury items costing significantly more. Sales staff usually speak English and provide gift packaging.
Traditional Markets
Traditional markets provide matcha at reasonable prices. Markets such as Nishiki Market in Kyoto and Omicho Market in Kanazawa feature many vendors selling local tea products.
While matcha here might not always be the highest grade, fresh and authentic options are common. Buyers can often negotiate prices or sample small amounts.
These markets offer the chance to combine shopping with a cultural experience. The lively atmosphere and local knowledge add value for visitors.
Online Japanese Retailers
Online retailers based in Japan sell a broad range of matcha. Websites like Rakuten and Amazon Japan offer user reviews, product details, and delivery options.
Online shopping gives access to regional specialties that may be hard to find in stores. Buyers should check harvest dates and look for trusted sellers.
Some websites provide English support and international shipping. This method suits those who want variety without traveling.
However, freshness can vary depending on delivery times.
Regional Matcha Shopping Destinations
A matcha specialty store that you can't miss on your trip to Kyoto 🍵 pic.twitter.com/7CVuRuWPpE
— taffy.ᐟ (@tffypsh) August 17, 2025
Matcha shopping varies by region, offering unique experiences based on local traditions and specialties. Different cities showcase diverse matcha products and ways to buy them.
Kyoto: The Heart of Matcha
Kyoto holds a deep history with matcha. Visitors find traditional tea shops around the city, especially near temples like Kiyomizu-dera and Gion.
These shops sell finely ground matcha, tea sets, and sweets. Specialty stores in Kyoto often focus on ceremonial grade matcha.
These high-quality products are used in tea ceremonies. Many stores also offer tastings so buyers can sample before purchasing.
The Nishiki Market is a popular place to buy a variety of matcha products. You can find packaged matcha powder, matcha-flavored snacks, and even matcha beauty items here.
Uji: Renowned Matcha Producers
Uji is famous for growing some of Japan’s best matcha. Farms in this region have a long tradition of tea cultivation.
Many matcha brands source their leaves directly from Uji fields. In Uji, buyers can visit tea plantations and mills to see how matcha is made.
Local shops often sell small-batch matcha with detailed information on flavor and harvest dates. Uji's matcha is praised for its bright green color and balanced taste.
It is well suited for both everyday drinking and formal tea ceremonies. Tourists can find premium matcha in packaging designed for gifting or personal use.
Tokyo: Urban Matcha Experiences
Tokyo offers convenience and innovation in matcha shopping. Department stores like Isetan and Takashimaya have dedicated tea sections selling both traditional and modern matcha products.
Trendy cafes and specialty shops in neighborhoods like Shibuya and Ginza offer matcha snacks, drinks, and bottled matcha. These spots appeal to those wanting quick access to quality matcha.
Tokyo’s shops often stock matcha blends, mixes with other teas, or matcha sweets. This variety fits the city’s fast pace and diverse tastes.
Buyers can expect both high-end and affordable matcha options here.
| Location | What to Expect | Popular Spots |
|---|---|---|
| Kyoto | Traditional, ceremonial grade | Nishiki Market, Gion |
| Uji | Farm-direct, premium color/taste | Tea plantations, local mills |
| Tokyo | Modern, varied blends and snacks | Isetan, Shibuya cafes, Ginza |
Types Of Matcha Available In Japan
Then i went to Le Labo Machiyama store, where they have a boutique and a cafe inside. Worth a visit and the matcha was good! pic.twitter.com/q9uFpxUSqT
— Mek 🎀 (@cheshuuu) September 16, 2025
Matcha in Japan comes in different qualities and blends, each suited for various uses. Buyers can choose based on taste, preparation, and budget.
Ceremonial Grade Matcha
Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality available. It is made from the youngest tea leaves, which are carefully stone-ground into a fine powder.
This type is designed to be whisked with hot water and drunk plain, allowing the rich flavors and natural sweetness to shine. The vibrant green color and smooth texture are hallmarks of ceremonial grade matcha.
It generally has a delicate, grassy taste with umami notes. This matcha is often used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.
It is more expensive due to its quality and labor-intensive production.
Culinary Grade Matcha
Culinary grade matcha is made from slightly older leaves than ceremonial grade. It is more bitter and less sweet, making it better suited for cooking and baking.
This grade is commonly added to lattes, smoothies, desserts, and savory dishes. Its color is a darker green, and the texture may be less fine.
Culinary grade matcha is less expensive, offering good value for everyday use. It still contains antioxidants but is not usually consumed on its own.
Premium Blends
Premium blend matcha combines leaves from different harvests and sometimes mixes ceremonial and culinary grades. This type balances flavor and cost, offering a versatile option.
It can be used for drinking or cooking, depending on the blend. Premium blends often highlight specific flavor notes, such as floral or nutty tones.
Some brands also add unique ingredients for differentiation. It is suitable for those wanting good quality matcha without the higher price of pure ceremonial grade.
How To Choose Quality Matcha Locally
Matcha shortage is real.
— Umar (@umarmaggi) July 22, 2025
Harga matcha ni ada yg dah naik more than 116% !
📈 Uji Tencha Auction Price (Kyoto, Japan):
2024: ¥20,024 / kg
2025: ¥43,330 / kg
+116% kenaikan.
Kalau tengok supplier2 yg famous dekat MY pun sekarang banyak habis stok.
Crazy 🤯 pic.twitter.com/BUDufXNQsx
Selecting good matcha means paying close attention to its appearance, smell, and how fresh it is. Buyers should also check where it was grown and read the packaging carefully.
These steps ensure the best taste and health benefits.
Evaluating Color and Aroma
High-quality matcha is bright green, not dull or yellowish. The vibrant green shows it has plenty of chlorophyll, which means better flavor and nutrients.
If the color looks faded, the matcha might be old or low grade. The aroma should be fresh and slightly sweet, with a grassy or vegetal scent.
Avoid matcha with a stale or musty smell. A good, natural fragrance hints at careful processing and freshness.
Identifying Freshness and Source
Fresh matcha tastes smoother and less bitter. It's best to buy from trusted local shops that store the powder correctly—away from light, air, and moisture.
Knowing the source is important. Matcha from Uji, Nishio, or Shizuoka is often high quality because of the strict growing conditions.
Labels may mention the region, so buyers should look for these names to confirm origin.
Understanding Packaging Labels
Good matcha packaging shows clear information like harvest date, grade, and origin. Look for terms like:
- Ceremonial Grade: Best for traditional tea drinking.
- Premium Grade: Good for daily use, milder flavor.
- Culinary Grade: For cooking, stronger taste.
Check for airtight seals and opaque bags to keep matcha fresh. Avoid packages without any date or origin details.
Purchasing Matcha As Gifts Or Souvenirs
Matcha is a popular choice for gifts and souvenirs in Japan because of its cultural significance and rich flavor. Many stores offer special packaging and unique blends that make matcha ideal for presenting to others.
Exclusive Gift Sets
Exclusive matcha gift sets often include high-quality powdered matcha combined with elegant accessories. These can be tea bowls, whisks (chasen), and scoops (chasaku).
Sets come in decorative boxes that highlight the matcha’s premium status. The price range for these sets varies but generally starts around 3,000 yen and can go much higher depending on the matcha grade and included items.
Shops in Kyoto and Uji are known for their well-crafted gift sets, often handmade or featuring traditional designs. These sets are perfect for people who want a complete tea experience or collectors of tea utensils.
They offer both the visual appeal and authentic flavor that represent Japanese tea culture.
Seasonal and Limited Editions
Seasonal matcha releases coincide with festivals or special events in Japan. These editions often use unique blends or rare tea leaves harvested during a specific time of year.
Packaging usually reflects seasonal themes like cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. Limited editions are produced in smaller quantities.
They can include collaborations with local artists or brands. These matcha products appeal to tourists and collectors looking for something rare and distinctive.
Prices for these editions vary but tend to be higher due to their exclusivity and limited stock. Shoppers can find them in specialty stores or at popular sightseeing spots during peak seasons.
Matcha Etiquette And Local Advice
When buying matcha in Japan, understanding how to sample the tea and interact with shop staff can improve the experience. Visitors should be ready to try small tastings and speak politely to get the best help and advice.
Sampling Before Purchase
Many matcha shops offer small samples to taste before buying. It is polite to accept these samples quietly and without rushing.
Tasting helps buyers understand the flavor differences between grades and types. Shops often serve matcha in traditional bowls, and customers may be asked to bow slightly or say “thank you” after tasting.
Drinking the entire sample shows respect for the effort made by the shop staff. If a customer does not want a sample, it is courteous to explain politely.
Some stores may limit samples to one per person, so it’s best to ask before tasting more than once.
Communicating With Shop Staff
Shop staff usually speak some English but may appreciate simple, clear phrases. Using basic Japanese greetings like “konnichiwa” (hello) and “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) is respectful.
Buyers should explain what kind of matcha they want, such as for drinking, cooking, or gifts. Staff can recommend products better with this information.
If uncertain, pointing to the product or using simple words like “strong,” “sweet,” or “bitter” helps staff understand preferences. Patience and a smile often improve communication.
Storing And Preserving Matcha Acquired In Japan
Matcha is a delicate powder that can lose its flavor and color if not stored properly.
It is best kept away from heat, light, air, and moisture to maintain its freshness.
After opening, matcha should be stored in an airtight container.
Many matcha packages from Japan come with a resealable bag inside the box.
Using this or transferring the matcha into a small, sealed jar helps protect it.
Keeping matcha in the refrigerator is a good choice.
However, make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture and odors from other foods from affecting the powder.
Matcha should be used quickly once opened—ideally within 1 to 2 weeks.
Over time, the taste may become dull and the bright green color may fade.
| Storage Tips | Details |
|---|---|
| Container | Airtight, resealable or jar |
| Temperature | Keep cool, store in refrigerator |
| Avoid | Light, heat, air, moisture |
| Use by | Within 1-2 weeks after opening |
