Ocha no Kanbayashi

Ocha no Kanbayashi (お茶のかんばやし) was founded in 1558 and has been producing tea in Uji for over 450 years.

The main branch of the tea shop is located on Uji-bashi Dori, at the end of the block and a few doors down from the Kanbayashi Kinenkan tea museum and Kanbayashi Shunsho Honten tea shop (owned by a brother).  Another branch of the tea shop is located on Byodoin Omotesando near Byodoin Temple and the factory is located at the south end of Agata Dori.

Visitors to Ocha no Kanbayashi receive a friendly greeting from the street and a freshly prepared sample of tea inside the shop.

Among the variety of traditionally produced Japanese teas available for purchase are several that have won prestigious awards at the Uji Tea Festival.  The staff, including the owner, are very helpful in selecting the best tea to suit your tastes and customers not living in Japan can present their passport to make duty free purchases.

Address: 〒611-0021 京都府宇治市宇治妙楽43
Myoraku-43 Uji, Kyoto Prefecture 611-0021

Hours:
9:00am to 6:00pm

Tea Review: Kamigokoro (Ocha no Kanbayashi)

Advent Tea Calendar Day 5

Kamigokoro Gyokuro
Ocha no Kanbayashi/お茶のかんばやし
Type: Green
Origin: Japan, Uji
Product Description: Not Provided.

Temperature: 140°F
Amount: 3 grams
Steeping Time: 1 minute

The dry leaves have a fresh green, lightly salty marine aroma with notes of sunflower seeds and seasoned wood.

The infusion is clear and green with a light green, buttery, nutty aroma.  The flavor is smooth, nutty, savory, and sweet with a mouthwatering finish.

While this is marketed as a gyokuro, it was recommended to me by Kanbayashi's owner when I asked about kabusecha.  The umami is definitely present, though milder than I would expect with gyokuro.  As a kabusecha, it's excellent and I would recommend steeping it at a slightly higher temperature (150°F) to bring out the full flavor and aroma.