Uji, Kyoto, Japan｜Akamon-chaya

This was a beautiful spot to have a really authentic experience. We loved having a chat to the owners who were really passionate about the tea they were selling!

I had a wonderful afternoon visiting Akamon-chaya. The shop itself was both elegant and intimate, relaxing and calming. I enjoyed chatting with the owner, Ms Irie: she said that she comes from a family of tea merchants which started 200 years ago. The older kiri-tea boxes on the shelves are ones her grandfather used (and show the telephone number then was just "30"!) She has been running the shop for over 50 years and focuses on top-grade Uji area local green teas. The amazing calligraphy on the walls, the no-ren, and the package labels is the work of her husband, who also designed the furniture and interior of the shop. If you have an eye for fine wood, you'll see many examples of prime Japanese lumber: keyaki, sugi, hinoki, and kiri. Her shop is a fusion between old traditions and modern relaxed and welcoming coziness. The tea ceremony isn't performed, but you do whip the matcha yourself and drink out of a large bowl while enjoying the peacefulness of the location. We also chatted about nice walks in the hills around Uji. She's lived there her entire life. Do visit if you come to the Kansai area: it's worth the trip.

Not busy and cozy atmosphere. Good to be here in the afternoon sitting by the window sipping tea under beautiful shades of tree.