---
title: "Ito En: Japanese Tea Giant from Shizuoka Since 1966"
description: "Ito En offers organic ceremonial matcha, sweetened latte mixes, and single-serve unsweetened matcha made from Japanese green tea leaves."
image: "https://best-matcha.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Logo_25e1d1bc-1d01-442b-8d97-87cef00d11b2.png"
---
# Ito En: Japanese Tea Giant from Shizuoka Since 1966

> Ito En offers organic ceremonial matcha, sweetened latte mixes, and single-serve unsweetened matcha made from Japanese green tea leaves.

Source: https://best-matcha.com/shop/ito-en
Created: 2025-06-21T17:01:06+00:00
Modified: 2026-08-05T13:42:52+00:00
Author: Emilie Schol

Since 1966, **Ito En** has defined what authentic Japanese tea means to the world. Founded by the Honjo brothers in Shizuoka Prefecture—the birthplace of Japanese tea cultivation—the company pioneered the first ready-to-drink green tea beverage and grew to become Japan’s fourth-largest soft drink producer. Their dedication to *traditional tea-making methods* combined with forward-thinking distribution has made premium Japanese tea accessible globally.

### Rooted in Tea Country Heritage

Shizuoka Prefecture produces over 40% of Japan’s tea, and **Ito En** built its reputation in this epicenter of tea culture. The company maintains direct relationships with tea farmers, ensuring every leaf meets exacting standards before reaching consumers. This connection to origin isn’t just about geography—it represents a commitment to preserving centuries-old cultivation techniques while supporting sustainable farming practices.

Their approach extends beyond sourcing. Ito En operates its own research facilities dedicated to understanding tea’s health properties and refining processing methods that maximize flavor and nutritional benefits.

### The Matcha Selection

**Ito En’s matcha** offerings reflect their position as one of Japan’s largest green tea distributors. Their range includes ceremonial-grade matcha for traditional preparation and culinary-grade options for cooking and beverages. Each product undergoes rigorous quality control, with tea leaves stone-ground using traditional methods to preserve the delicate flavor compounds and vibrant green color that distinguish premium matcha.

The brand’s matcha products feature:

- High-grade tea leaves sourced from *first-harvest spring picking*

- Traditional stone-grinding techniques that maintain powder texture and nutritional integrity

- Multiple grade options suited for different preparation methods and applications

- Transparent sourcing information connecting products to specific growing regions

### Beyond the Cup

**Ito En** views tea as more than a beverage—it’s a cultural practice worth protecting. The company invests in tea education programs and supports farming communities to ensure traditional knowledge passes to future generations. Their product line extends from loose-leaf teas and matcha to sencha and hojicha, offering consumers a comprehensive introduction to Japanese tea culture.

This depth of experience, spanning nearly six decades, positions Ito En as a trusted authority in the matcha marketplace. Their products represent a direct link to Japan’s tea heritage, backed by *quality assurance systems* that few competitors can match.

---

## 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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