My first feature is on Sakurai Tea House (櫻井焙茶研究所), 5 Chome-6-23 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo, 107-0062, Japan . This tea experience was honestly one of the highlights of my trip. Although a tad bit on the pricier side, (we paid $50/person) it was 100% worth it. Because really, when will you ever have the experience and opportunity again? Imagine stepping into a wooden/cooper room, passing by fresh roasted tea atop burners, and a smoking, boiling clay pot of water, and as you’re kindly seated, you glance over, and are met with the most perfect view of the city. Then embarking upon an hour journey of artful tea making by a Master Tea Maker, the elegance, the art, the experience, the show, the tastes, smells, sights, its all absolutely 100% worth it. Entranced by the delicate movements of the Master Tea Maker, you’re invited to experience his works of art freshly made one after another, all paired with well thought out sweet delicacies in between tastings. Here, tradition meets modern day practices seamlessly. I highly highly recommend this experience.
You’re free to check out the site here (however, its in Japanese): http://www.sakurai-tea.jp/
My 2nd feature is on (more affordable) Aoyama Tea House, 5 Chome-3, Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan, This place is remarkable, it’s like stepping into a fairytale dreamland surrounded by bold, vibrant, and beautiful flowers and greeneries. Its truly a relaxing and aromatic environment; there’s extra O2 here too (being surround by the plants and all)! It’s a nice place to just sit and catch up over tea and/or dessert, or just to come to work, relax, and/or read a book. It’s cozy and comfortable, yet, invigorating at the same time! I don’t think I could ever become tired of this inviting environment; I truly wish I had a teahouse like this to go to in my hometown; I’d literally be studying and hanging out here all the time! Aoyama Tea House offers a variety of aromatic teas, delightful desserts, and even savory dishes. I tried 2 different types of teas here; an oolong-based, and a green-tea-based one. Both were quality teas! I highly recommend pairing your tea with their 3 petite tea-cookies (strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate), they’re light and delicious, and pair so well with the tea!
Check out their site here next time you’re in Tokyo: http://www.afm-teahouse.com/
