Shogyokuen
A Legacy of Uji Tea Excellence Since 1827
Shogyokuen has been dedicated to tea cultivation and craftsmanship for nearly two centuries. The story began in 1827 (Bunsei 10) when Harueemon Kobayashi took over a tea plantation and established a foundation for tea cultivation and production. Over time, the business expanded into retail, serving the greater Kinki region of Japan.
In 1923 (Taisho 12), Jiichi Kobayashi formally named the company Shogyokuen Seicha, marking this as the official founding year. Since then, Shogyokuen has remained committed to quality, consistently ranking among the top producers in tea competitions.
Through the pre-war and post-war periods, Shogyokuen continued to refine its craft, specializing in the cultivation and production of Uji gyokuro and matcha—two of Japan’s most esteemed tea varieties. With over 190 years of expertise, Shogyokuen oversees every step of production, from cultivation to processing, ensuring the highest level of quality control.
Mastery in Tea Blending
At the heart of Shogyokuen today is Hiroshi Kobayashi, one of Japan’s elite 10th-dan Tea Masters (茶師十段)—a title held by only a select few in the country. His deep expertise in tea evaluation and blending allows him to create matcha that meets diverse needs, from traditional tea ceremonies to modern applications.
Shogyokuen’s matcha lineup features 13 distinct grades, each carefully crafted to showcase the nuanced flavors of Uji matcha. For North America, we have selected four of the finest, including Zuisho (#1), which we consider the best matcha available in Canada.
Award-Winning Uji Tea
Shogyokuen’s unwavering pursuit of quality has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Award—one of Japan’s most prestigious honors in the tea industry. Each tea is meticulously curated by certified Japanese tea appraisers, ensuring that every cup reflects the pinnacle of Uji tea craftsmanship.
Experience the legacy of Shogyokuen—where centuries of dedication meet the finest matcha.
