---
title: "Ippodo Tea: Kyoto Tea House Since 1717"
description: "Ippodo Tea draws on Kyoto tea expertise dating to 1717, offering matcha blends from balanced Nodoka to crisp, astringent JAS-certified Organic Matcha."
image: "https://best-matcha.com/wp-content/uploads/9130-ippodo-tea-youtube-logo.webp"
---
# Ippodo Tea: Kyoto Tea House Since 1717

> Ippodo Tea draws on Kyoto tea expertise dating to 1717, offering matcha blends from balanced Nodoka to crisp, astringent JAS-certified Organic Matcha.

Source: https://best-matcha.com/shop/ippodo
Created: 2025-10-10T23:34:15+00:00
Modified: 2026-08-05T13:42:49+00:00
Author: Emilie Schol

**Ippodo Tea** stands as one of Japan’s most respected tea houses, bringing nearly 300 years of Kyoto tradition to matcha enthusiasts worldwide. Founded in 1717 by Rihei Watanabe in the cultural heart of Japan, this historic brand has perfected the art of selecting, blending, and crafting premium Japanese green teas across generations. Their deep-rooted expertise makes them a trusted name for anyone seeking *authentic matcha experience* grounded in centuries of refinement.

### A Legacy Rooted in Kyoto’s Tea Culture

Kyoto’s tea heritage flows through every aspect of Ippodo’s approach. The brand has maintained its commitment to aromatic, well-balanced teas by honoring traditional methods while ensuring accessibility for modern tea drinkers. This isn’t a company chasing trends—it’s a tea house that has witnessed and shaped Japanese tea culture for three centuries.

Their location in Kyoto, Japan’s historic tea capital, provides direct access to the finest tea-growing regions and the knowledge passed down through master blenders. This geographical and cultural advantage translates into *exceptional quality control* at every stage.

### Comprehensive Matcha Selection and Beyond

**Ippodo Tea** offers over 40 carefully curated tea varieties, giving matcha lovers genuine choice based on taste preferences and intended use. Their matcha range includes everything from daily drinking grades to ceremonial options, plus special seasonal releases like Tsukikage Special Autumn Matcha.

Beyond matcha, their portfolio encompasses:

- **Gyokuro** – premium shaded green tea for refined palates

- **Sencha** – Japan’s most popular steamed green tea

- Bancha varieties including hojicha and genmaicha

- Convenient teabags without quality compromise

- Essential tea utensils and preparation tools

### Accessible Expertise for Every Tea Journey

Ippodo bridges the gap between traditional tea ceremony and everyday enjoyment. Their global online shop ships internationally, with dedicated USA and Canada stores for faster delivery. More importantly, they provide educational resources covering preparation techniques, food pairings, and cultural context.

This combination of *historical credibility* and modern accessibility makes Ippodo an ideal choice for both matcha newcomers exploring quality options and experienced practitioners seeking reliable, time-tested sources. Their balanced approach respects tradition while welcoming all who appreciate fine Japanese tea.

---

## Site identity

- Organization: Best Matcha (Emilie Schol)
- Description: Best Matcha is a specialized marketplace and educational platform for comparing Japanese matcha brands, products, grades, prices, and preparation guidance. It connects tea enthusiasts with producers and provides source-conscious guides for making informed choices.
- Website: https://best-matcha.com


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