#Japan #Tokyo #Yamamotoyama #Uji Ogura #Gyokuro Tea

Introduction

Yamamotoyama, a renowned Japanese tea company, is set to introduce a remarkable product—a limited edition of Uji Ogura handpicked Gyokuro tea. Scheduled for release on January 27, 2026, only 800 limited units will be made available. This premium tea is crafted exclusively from the rare leaves of Uji Ogura, the birthplace of Gyokuro, in Kyoto, promising a luxurious tea experience.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

The story behind this unique tea dates back to 1835 when Yamamotoyama's sixth-generation founder, Yoshimune Yamamoto, invented Gyokuro in the serene landscapes of Uji Ogura. In today's fast-paced world, where the art of brewing tea has somewhat faded, Yamamotoyama has made a conscious decision to revive tradition by offering the most labor-intensive high-grade Gyokuro. This new product encourages consumers to embrace the leisurely moments spent steeping this exceptional tea in warm water, redefined as a luxurious experience.

Commitment to Rarity and Quality

1. Exclusivity: With only two farms remaining in Uji Ogura that cultivate Gyokuro, the tea is incredibly rare. Historically, this area thrived due to its advantageous location near Lake Ougura, producing premium tea through rich fertilization. Currently, only a little over one ton of the remarkably rare leaves is harvested each May.

2. Natural Handpicking: Unlike standard tea fields designed for high efficiency, Uji Ogura tea is cultivated using a traditional 'natural' method of growth, allowing branches to extend freely. Experienced tea pickers hand-select the tender 'one bud, two leaves' shoots delicately. This natural harvesting method avoids damaging the leaves, eliminating off-flavors caused by oxidation, thus enhancing the tea's original, translucent richness.

3. Aged to Perfection: Rather than the typical aging period concluding in autumn, this Gyokuro undergoes maturation through winter. The absence of off-flavors from handpicking, combined with the enhanced depth of taste and aristocratic aroma developed during aging, results in a truly sophisticated tea experience.

Flavor and Aroma Profile

• - Taste: A rich and refined umami taste devoid of bitterness, providing a refreshing profile.
• - Aroma: Unique and luxurious, reminiscent of high-quality seaweed, known as "Ooi-kou," lending a distinctive fragrance to the tea.
• - Pairing: This exceptional tea pairs well with light and not overly sweet Japanese confections, allowing the tea’s distinctive character to shine through.

Product Details

• - Name: Uji Ogura Handpicked Gyokuro (GR-UT)
• - Content: 30g of tea leaves
• - Price: 10,800 yen (including tax)
• - Expiration Date: 240 days (if unopened)
• - Release Date: January 27, 2026
• - Units Available: 800 limited pieces
• - Packaging: Beautifully presented in a wooden box, original tin, and furoshiki wrapping.
• - Where to Buy: Available through Yamamotoyama stores nationwide and the official online shop.

Product Details Link

About Yamamotoyama

Founded in 1690, Yamamotoyama began with the vision of founder Yoshimune Yamamoto to offer the delicious tea of Uji to a broader audience. Recognized as a leading tea merchant in Edo after introducing the first 'blue-produced sencha,' Yamamotoyama has evolved, introducing Gyokuro in 1835 and starting its seaweed sales during the Showa era. Today, it continues to provide innovative value through tea and seaweed both domestically and internationally.

Company Overview

• - Name: Yamamotoyama Co., Ltd.
• - Headquarters: 11F Mitsui Building, Nihonbashi Takashimaya, 2-5-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
• - Founded: 1690 (Genroku 3)
• - CEO: Nami Yamamoto (11th generation)
• - Operations: Planning and selling processed products using Japanese tea and seaweed, dining business.
• - Website: Yamamotoyama
• - Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, X