Nishio City: The Hidden Matcha Paradise Awaiting Discovery

Amid the intriguing world of Japanese tea, the distinction between green tea and matcha can be perplexing. Both originate from the same tea leaves, but their preparation sets them apart. While traditional green tea is brewed from loose leaves, matcha is finely ground into a vibrant powder, offering the unique experience of ingesting the entire leaf, a practice unparalleled by any other tea in the world.

A traditional stone mill used to grind matcha on display at Nishio city’s Aoi Sencha, where visitors can try their hands at grinding matcha themselves

When one thinks of green tea, Uji in Kyoto and Fuji in Shizuoka are two regions that often spring to mind, both being synonymous with this green elixir. However, when it comes to the art of matcha, Nishio in Aichi steals the spotlight. Over 97% of the tea leaves cultivated in Nishio are dedicated to the making of pure matcha or matcha-based products, distinguishing the city as a mecca of matcha craftsmanship.

A map outside Kojuin Temple in Nishio city illustrates the convenient proximity of key attractions within the city

So, what makes matcha so revered that it demands an intricately choreographed ritual to savor its texture and taste, so beautifully exemplified in the spirituality of traditional tea ceremonies?

While matcha has been cherished for centuries in Japan’s ancient tea culture, modern research has unveiled its role on the world’s stage as somewhat of a superfood - full of health benefits - it is not only delectable, but also extremely nourishing and good for you. Substances like catechins, caffeine, and theanine found in matcha are known to alleviate stress, enhance cognitive function, and promote relaxation, as confirmed by the research of Professor Yuki Kurauchi, currently based in heart of matcha town, Nishio City.

Nishio proudly boasts a history of nearly 800 years in matcha cultivation, nurtured by a warm climate and fertile soil along the banks of the Yahagi River. This history traces back to the year 1271 when the founder, Seiichikokushi, sowed the seeds of tea within the grounds of Jisso-ji Temple. During those early years, matcha remained an exclusive beverage savored by monks and other aristocracy.

Bask in the tranquil ambiance of Jisso-ji, a serene temple belonging to the Rinzai Sect of Zen Buddhism, with a history of matcha production

It wasn't until the Meiji period that matcha cultivation in Nishio gained widespread popularity, thanks to the visionary head priest of Kojuin Temple, who brought tea seeds and processing techniques from Uji, Kyoto.

Today, Nishio stands as Japan's foremost matcha producer, contributing to a much-celebrated global matcha culture. You'd be surprised to discover that a number of internationally recognized confectionery brands regularly incorporate Nishio-produced matcha into their famous matcha delights.

For the ardent matcha enthusiast eager to plunge into the essence of matcha, Nishio's allure lies in its compact city layout, brimming with matcha discoveries along its labyrinth of charming streets. From museums offering insight into the premium tea leaf to factory tours and indulging in a dizzying array of matcha sweets at local cafes, all within reach of a leisurely bicycle ride.

Bicycles can be rented at the Nishio Information Center, conveniently situated next to Nishio Station, for a mere ¥300 for 3 hours or ¥500 for the entire day.

Don't miss out on these curated matcha-centric activities that promise to make your visit to Nishio an unforgettable journey into the world of the beloved superfood, matcha!

Nishio Tourist Association

Aichi Nishio-shi Hananokicho 4-chome 64

0563577882

View All

Go here

SAIJOEN AIYA

SAIJOEN AIYA stands as a testament to Nishio's matcha heritage, distinguishing itself as one of the top-class matcha manufacturers in the city since its establishment in 1888. It houses a souvenir shop, a cafe and the very popular “Matcha Museum SAIJOJEN WAKU WAKU”. Here, you'll find anything and everything matcha-related under one roof.

The entrance to AIYA leads you through a small but very well-kept traditional Japanese garden

The production of matcha is an art that transcends mere processing, and AIYA's millstones, totaling over 1300, each handcrafted and maintained by skilled in-house artisans illustrates just that. Touring the facility, one gains an appreciation for the meticulous process, understanding of why this high-grade tea commands its premium price. Even when automated round-the-clock, each millstone grinds only 30-40g per hour, just enough to fill a single tiny tin.

An exciting aspect of the museum tour is the opportunity to become a tea sommelier for the day, where one learns to discern different tea grades by sight, scent, touch, and taste. You'll have the chance to blend and grind your own matcha, culminating in a mini sado (tea ceremony) within the museum's elegant tearoom.

Can you distinguish the differences that elevate one tea leaf to the pinnacle of premium quality over another?

English subtitles throughout the museum provide an in-depth understanding of the matcha-making process for English-speaking visitors

Reservations are essential for the museum tour, which includes the sado experience at just ¥1000, excellent value for money, considering the range of experiences offered. If you can't secure a spot, do consider Aoiseicha, a down-to-earth establishment also providing a similarly engaging experience in an authentic setting nearby.

A mini tea ceremony inside this traditional style tearoom concludes the museum tour

Matcha Museum Saijoen Waku Waku

3.5

7 Reviews

Aichi Nishio-shi Kamimachi Yokomachi Yashiki 15

0563776572

From 10:00/From 13:00/From 1…

View All

Go here

Aoiseicha

Aoi Sencha's traditional aesthetics seamlessly blend into the charming townscape of Nishio city

At Aoi Seicha you can try your hand at grinding tencha into matcha

Aoiseicha presents a striking contrast to the sleek and modern SAIJOEN AIYA, with its unpretentious and rustic approach to matcha production. This matcha maker is an ideal spot for those who seek a genuine taste of local craftsmanship. It offers more budget-friendly experiences, with a factory tour and matcha tasting costing just ¥400.

For those seeking a deeper connection with matcha, an extra ¥700 allows you to learn the art of whisking a bowl of warm, frothy matcha.

Aoi Seicha Main Store

4.0

3 Reviews

Aichi Nishio-shi Kamimachi Kamiyashiki 7

0563572570

View All

Go here

To create matcha, only the highest quality young tea leaves are hand-picked during the lush spring months of April and May. These young, sweet sprouts, known as “ichiban cha,” are often reserved for exquisite tea ceremonies, while subsequent harvests contribute to matcha-infused products, from confectionery to savory delights.

Nishio's tea fields are recognizable by their distinctive black sheets, a traditional method used to cultivate superior matcha by protecting the bushes from direct sunlight. This careful shielding process prevents the formation of tannins, which can cause bitterness, and instead, it encourages the development of theanine, which is responsible for matcha's rich umami flavor.

Although it is a season-limited activity, the Inariyama Tea Garden Park offers a timeless experience. Visitors can dress up in a traditional chatsumi musume (tea-picking lady) costume and capture the moment with some fun photos. Before picking some tealeaves to take home.

For a fee of ¥2500, immerse yourself in the full experience: don the chatsumi musume attire for a memorable photoshoot and delve into the workings of the Aoiseicha factory. English-speaking guides are also available at an additional fee to enhance your visit.

No one should leave Nishio without going for at least one cup, or two, or three (or as many as you desire) of the richest, creamiest matcha latte you will ever have the pleasure of sipping. In fact, Nishio is home to over 30 cafes where you can sample the city’s pride production, providing the perfect excuse for tempting sweet breaks along your journey.

Matcha Lab Nishio Denso Chaya

Matcha Labo is set in a traditional style town-house

While many dive straight into picture-perfect matcha parfaits adorned with a plethora of toppings, the standout feature of this cozy cafe is the Nishio Matcha Mont Blanc. This French-inspired confection is artfully crafted with luxurious swirls of verdant matcha cream filled and topped with fresh strawberries, offering a decadent twist to the classic dessert.

Enjoy this cozy cafe while looking out onto their small but picturesque Japanese garden

Treat yourself to the Nishio Matcha Mont Blanc for ¥1540 and complement it with a soothing matcha latte for ¥700.

Maccha Laboratory nishiotsutaesouchaya

3.5

6 Reviews

Aichi Pref. Nishioshi Kinjouchou 122

0563560255

View All

Go here

Aikei Cafe

For bird lovers, Aikei Cafe is a delightful find, with its avian-themed interior featuring adorable decors. The cafe's crowning delight is the Matcha Tiramisu Parfait, which is as whimsical as it is delicious, served in an adorable bamboo cage that adds to the charm of the feathery theme.
Indulge in the Matcha Tiramisu Parfait for ¥2000.

Meet the friendly cafe owner, ready to share her passion for birds and sweets with a warm smile!

あいけいcafe

愛知県西尾市上町薬師前20-2

0563562022

View All

Former Konoe Residence

This exquisite residence often graces Nishio's promotional brochure covers and was relocated from Kyoto to its current location within the Nisho City Historical Park. Enjoy Nishio’s castle town landscape by sitting on the veranda, which offers a stunning view of the Honmaru Ushitora Yagura, while sipping on a traditional bowl of matcha (¥400).

The castle ruins look spectacular in all seasons

Former Konoe Residence

Aichi Nishio-shi Kinjocho 231-1 Nishio-shi History Park

0563546758

[Former Konoe Residence] 9:0…

View All

Go here

If you thought matcha was solely a beverage or sweet treat, Nishio City will broaden your matcha horizon with surprises likes savory offerings that showcase creative and unique ways matcha could be used in culinary experiences.

Uotora Japanese Restaurant

While Uotora offers traditional Japanese fare, its menu also holds a delightful secret—matcha-infused dishes!

Dive into the tenchagama, a tenderly flavored dish where the rice is graced with tencha, the previous form of matcha before it is ground into its usual fine powder. The Tenchagama (¥2640) features steamed sea bream and an array of side dishes. Alternatively, you can try the Chameshi Unagama (¥2750) embellished with juicy grilled eels, accompanied by a comforting pot of dashi.

魚寅

愛知県西尾市上町薬師前1-10

0563573044

View All

Shokakuen

Shokakuen is another esteemed tea maker in the city who also offer factory tours as well as a chance for souvenir shopping and other matcha-themed experiences.

At "Sayu", located on the ground floor, visitors can continue their indulgence with a parfait spree, but what’s worth checking out is their savory dishes that infuse matcha into the recipes.

The matcha zaru soba (buckwheat noodles) dish is accompanied by a bowl of matcha rice (¥1250). Also on the menu is an unusual but very popular matcha porridge (¥680), that makes for a nice alternative to all the matcha sweets!

Discover a variety of matcha themed treasures at the souvenir shop, adjacent to the cafe, an ideal spot for some omiyage hunting!

Sabo Sayu

3.5

13 Reviews

Aichi Pref. Nishioshi Kamimachi Minamiarako 50-2

0563543360

[Sales]9:30-18:30[Sabo]10:00…

View All

Go here

Nishio City is located approximately 90 minutes from Nagoya by car, or just shy of an hour by train. If traveling by train, board the Meitetsu Nagoya Line at Meitetsu Nagoya Station, and you'll arrive at Nishio Station in about 50 minutes.

As you disembark, prepare to be greeted not just by the warmth of the local’s open arms, but also the aromatic embrace of Japan’s finest matcha!