Hikari Leaf

Hikari Leaf was founded in 2018 by Reiko Saito, a third-generation tea master from Kyoto with a passion for revitalizing Japan’s matcha legacy for a new generation. Inspired by the nuanced artistry of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, Reiko left a career in Tokyo’s bustling corporate world to return to her family roots. With a vision to lift the standard for quality matcha outside Japan, she began by forming direct partnerships with micro-farmers in the famed Uji region.

At its inception, Hikari Leaf operated from a small shop in Uji, hand-milling the earliest batches and hosting tasting sessions for curious locals and visiting tea enthusiasts. The brand quickly gained recognition among chefs and specialty cafés for the vibrant color and umami depth of its powders. As demand grew, Hikari Leaf expanded its network of trusted tea growers, investing in sustainable shading and hand-picking methods to preserve delicate flavors and support the traditions of the Uji area.

By 2023, the company’s commitment to traceability and farm-to-cup transparency differentiated Hikari Leaf in an increasingly crowded global matcha market. The brand’s philosophy—honor the leaf, honor the land—reflects in its dedication to annual farm visits, rigorous quality controls, and the ongoing education of both staff and consumers.

Today, Hikari Leaf remains family-run and Kyoto-based, sharing a modern vision for matcha that stays rooted in respect for heritage, the natural environment, and the generations of farmers that continue to define Japan’s green tea story.