#Japan #Shizuoka #Tea Experience #Shizuoka Tea #Suruga Region

Shizuoka's Tea Day: A Celebration of Tradition and Taste

Every year on November 1st, Shizuoka City commemorates its rich tea culture with the special designation of "Tea Day." This celebration aims to deepen local and tourist engagement with the city's tea heritage, moving beyond just the new tea season.

Known as one of Japan's foremost tea production areas, Shizuoka City invites residents and visitors alike to discover the history and culture of tea, connecting with local producers and artisans. Around this day, various events unfold, including unique initiatives like a tea-receiving taxi wrapped in tea-themed designs and an afternoon tea pairing featuring Shizuoka tea and exquisite sweets.

The Significance of November 1st

November 1st marks the birthday of Shichi Kokushi, regarded as the progenitor of Shizuoka tea, who is known for bringing tea seeds from Song Dynasty China to Japan. This historical connection provides a meaningful backdrop for the city's festive events and community activities aimed at promoting the culture and appreciation for Shizuoka's unique teas.

Events to Experience Tea in Shizuoka

Throughout the week surrounding Tea Day, a variety of events are organized:

1. Tea Day Poster Contest

Themed "The Perfect Tea Time," students from local elementary, middle, and special needs schools are invited to participate in a poster contest. Winning pieces will be showcased at the World Tea Festival in Fall 2025.

• - Date: October 23-26
• - Location: Granship 3rd Floor Lobby

2. Tea Gift from Wrapped Taxis

In collaboration with the Shizuoka City Taxi Association, passengers who ride on a branded taxi will receive a tea bag, creating a delightful surprise during their commute.

• - Date: November 1
• - Location: Throughout Shizuoka City

3. Sunpu Honmatsu Autumn Tea Festival

At the Sunpu Honmatsu Tea Festival, visitors can taste aged Honmatsu tea stored at an elevation of 1,200 meters and purchase specialty Shizuoka tea.

• - Date: November 1-3
• - Location: Outdoor space at Shizuoka City Museum of History

4. Sunpu Daigoshou Grand Tea Ceremony

Hosted at the historic Sunpu Castle Park, attendees can purchase fine teas and participate in tea preparation demonstrations, including traditional hand-rolled tea and matcha grinding experiences.

• - Date: November 22-23
• - Location: Central Square at Sunpu Castle Park

Introducing the Suruga Noon Tea Project

From November 1st, the "Suruga Noon Tea" initiative will be launched to showcase the diverse flavors of Shizuoka tea. This unique afternoon tea experience allows participants to enjoy tea paired with handcrafted sweets and food from local cafes and tea farms in the Suruga region.

Featured Offerings:

1. Tea Harmony Afternoon Tea - ¥3,500
Guests will enjoy a welcoming bitter matcha, exquisite traditional cakes, and modern sweet creations that complement Shizuoka's lightly steamed tea.
Location: Nakajimaya Grand Hotel, Dining Lounge & Bar Arbor
Date: November 1 - February 28

2. Suruga Tea Palette - ¥3,850
Experience a journey through tea, food, and art, culminating in a tea-infused crepe Suzette prepared on the spot.
Location: Steak & European Cuisine Le Monde Fujigaya
Date: November 1 - Late February

3. Five Styles of Shizuoka Tea with French Pastry - ¥2,500
Indulge in a selection of five types of Shizuoka tea paired with refined French pastries.
Location: Misérable (Palais 4th Building, 1st Floor)
Date: November 1 - February 28

Shizuoka City: A Global Tea Hub

Shizuoka's tea tourism allows visitors to engage with local tea farmers and merchants, offering hands-on experiences while exploring the unique flavors of tea cultivated in the region's trellised mountains. Visitors can learn about the history of tea in Japan and the legacy left by Tokugawa Ieyasu, who greatly contributed to the development of premium tea, famously guarding the flavor integrity of his prized teas.

Conclusion

The celebration of Shizuoka's Tea Day not only cherishes the cultural significance of tea but also bridges the past and present by inviting the community and visitors to experience the uniqueness of Shizuoka tea through engaging and delightful events. Join in the festivities every November 1st and immerse yourself in the warmth of Shizuoka’s tea culture.

For more information, visit Shizuoka Tea Tourism.