Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo, located in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, is set to launch a special afternoon tea experience called "Uji Tea Afternoon Tea with Tsujirihei" starting April 13, 2026. This collaboration with the traditional Uji tea establishment, Tsujirihei, promises a unique fusion of Uji tea and chocolate flavors, bringing together rich heritage and modern culinary trends.
The afternoon tea will be available in two distinct periods: from April 13 to May 14, guests can enjoy the pairing of Uji tea with milk chocolate, while from May 15 to June 30, the delightful combination of Uji tea and white chocolate will be offered. This year marks the 11th celebration of this innovative concept, which began in 2016 with the aim of preserving and passing down the rich traditions of Uji tea culture.
A Thoughtful Culinary Journey
The afternoon tea experience is designed to not only please the palate but also to delight the eyes. Each dish has been meticulously crafted to highlight the beautiful contrast between the flavors and colors of Uji tea and chocolate. Guests can look forward to an amuse-bouche featuring "New Onion Potage with Petit Pois Puree"—a warm, comforting dish that combines the sweetness of fresh onions with the freshness of green peas, complemented by a matcha sauce that adds an interesting twist.
The upper tier of the afternoon tea tray features a selection of sweets inspired by the Uji tea and chocolate pairing. Highlighted treats include a "Matcha and Chocolate Mousse" adorned with delightful textures of mochi and black beans; a "Hojicha Cake" that marries the nutty essence of roasted green tea with tangy raspberry; and a "Matcha Terrine" subtly infused with grapefruit and yuzu peel compote. Completing the platter is a crunchy "Chocolate Bar" coated with rich chocolate and enhanced by three varieties of crumble and almonds. Each tasting journey changes with the chocolate type; either milk or white will grace the desserts based on the season.
On the middle tier, guests will find tradition garden scones—both plain and matcha-flavored—accompanied by the usual clotted cream along with chocolate-infused clotted cream and sweet red bean paste to customize their cream tea experience.
The lower tier of savory offerings boasts four distinct presentations, each crafted to play with flavors and textures. Guests can enjoy the "Hamo and Tai Rilette on Crostini," which smoothly combines the umami of eel and sea bream with a rich béchamel, adorned with fragrant ginger confit. Another enticing option is the "Pastrami, Shrimp, and Broad Bean Sandwich" sandwiching prawns with seasonal ingredients like broad beans in healthy sprouted grain bread. For something more luxurious, the "Kinoko-Tama" features a delightful representation of chicken breast and foie gras, while the "Hojicha Royale with Scallops and Grilled Bamboo Shoots" introduces a delightful umami element.
In addition to the dine-in experience, the hotel's shop, "Selections," will offer the highly popular take-out version of their moss ball sweets in collaboration with Tsujirihei. Perfect for home enjoyment or as thoughtful gifts.
Practical Details and Reservations
Event Duration: April 13 - June 30, 2026
Timing: Reservations available from 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM (two hour limits with slots at 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM, 3:00 PM, and 3:30 PM)
Location: Lobby Lounge, "Le Jardin"
Pricing: Online Reservations: 8,000 yen, Phone Reservations: 9,000 yen (including tax; service charge extra)
Booking & Inquiries: 03-3943-5489 (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM)
Website URL: Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo Afternoon Tea
This delightful afternoon tea experience not only promises luscious flavors but is also a celebration of tradition and creativity in dining, making it a must-visit for tea lovers and gourmet food enthusiasts alike.