d:matcha Kyoto

d:matcha Kyoto emerged from a shared vision to revitalize Japan’s traditional tea industry while addressing the challenges posed by an aging agricultural society. Founded in 2014 by Daiki Tanaka and Kenta Nakai, the company was born from their pursuit of exceptional matcha and a desire to invigorate the historic Wazuka region in Kyoto Prefecture.

The founders’ innovative approach centers on forging direct connections between discerning consumers and the source of premium Japanese tea, seamlessly merging time-honored farming wisdom with modern business practices. This strategy reflects their commitment to preserving traditional tea cultivation while ensuring its sustainability for future generations.

Central to d:matcha Kyoto’s identity is its meticulous selection of tea cultivars, each chosen for distinct personality and flavor profiles. The company works with three primary cultivars: Yabukita (Japan’s most widely planted variety offering balanced flavor and good aroma), Uji Hikari (developed in Uji with vibrant green color and naturally sweet, creamy texture), and Gokou (a rare variety prized for its flowery aroma and deep umami).

The company’s commitment to sustainable farming practices sets it apart in the industry. Their innovative Aigamo duck farming method introduces ducklings to rice paddies as natural weed and pest controllers, eliminating the need for synthetic interventions while enriching soil naturally. This approach exemplifies their philosophy of working in harmony with nature rather than conquering it.

d:matcha Kyoto proudly maintains JAS (Japanese Agricultural Standards) certification for select tea fields, guaranteeing cultivation without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Their comprehensive sustainability practices include composting tea pruning remnants and rice straw into nutrient-rich soil amendments, implementing water-wise drip irrigation systems, and creating biodiversity through hedgerows and cover crops that support beneficial insects and wildlife.