About Shizuoka

Nestled between the majestic peaks of Mount Fuji and the coast of the Pacific Ocean lies Shizuoka Prefecture, a jewel prized by the tea connoisseur world for its outstanding tea culture. This region is the heart of Japanese tea production and one of the country's most important tea production sites, which has refined its craft over centuries.

The temperate and humid climate of Shizuoka, combined with fertile soils, creates ideal conditions for the cultivation of first-class green tea. The region is characterized by an impressive geological diversity: rolling hills that form a picturesque carpet of countless tea fields to high-altitude plantations that benefit from cooler temperatures. This geographical differentiation makes it possible to cultivate a remarkable range of flavors and tea qualities.

Shizuoka is particularly known for its highly prized Sencha and Gyokuro teas. The Sencha produced in this region impresses with its clear, distinct taste with a harmonious balance of sweetness and tart freshness that invigorates all the senses. Gyokuro, often regarded as the crown jewel of Japanese tea, is cultivated to perfection in Shizuoka. Its sweet, umami-rich taste and velvety texture are the result of a sophisticated shading method that inhibits photosynthesis and thus maximizes the amino acids in the tea leaves.

Historically, the cultivation of tea in Shizuoka has roots dating back to the 13th century. At that time, the Shizuoka area was recognized by Buddhist monks as ideal for the cultivation of the precious plant and the reason for the deep anchoring of tea culture in the collective consciousness of the region. Tea production has been continuously optimized and refined over the centuries and is now considered a prime example of sustainable craftsmanship.

A visit to the Shizuoka tea region not only offers the opportunity to learn the secrets of tea cultivation at first hand, but also to explore the cultural and historical peculiarities of the region. Whether taking part in a traditional tea ceremony or touring the countless tea gardens, visitors experience a unique synthesis of nature, craftsmanship and tradition.

Thanks to the pioneering work of many small, family-run businesses, tea cultivation in Shizuoka is not only enjoying great popularity in Japan, but is also increasingly gaining international fame. These producers focus on innovation and quality to please the discerning palates of tea lovers worldwide. Shizuoka Prefecture remains a vibrant center of Japanese tea culture, shaping not only a region but influencing the entire global market with its tireless dedication to craftsmanship.