Opening the Legend of 3 Matcha Kings from Japan: Ippodo, Marukyu Koyamaen, Ito En

If wine has Bordeaux, Matcha has Uji and Nishio. And among these famous regions, there are “Brands” standing as pillars of Japanese tea industry inherited for centuries. For those wanting to touch the true spirit of Japanese tea, these are 3 brands you must know and (should) try once in life.

1. Marukyu Koyamaen (丸久小山園) - Uji, Kyoto

If asking matcha circle “Which brand is most standard?”, the answer is mostly Marukyu Koyamaen.

History: Founded since Genroku era (approx 1704) in Uji, the best tea region. Older than 300 years!
Taste Style: Famous for “Balance”. Perfect Clean Aroma and distinct Umami.
Hit Models:
- Isuzu (五十鈴): End game for Usucha. Good price, smooth taste.
- Aoarashi (青嵐): Starter model very worth it. Makes delicious Latte.
- Unkaku (雲鶴): Premium grade for Koicha. Intense, fragrant.
Where to buy: Easiest Japanese brand to find in Thailand (via importers).

2. Ippodo Tea (一保堂茶舗) - Kyoto

Old tea shop in heart of Kyoto. Like a tea institution everyone visiting Kyoto must upgrade.

History: Founded 1717. Famous for strict Leaf Selection.
Taste Style: Ippodo has “Robust & Deep” character, slightly more than Marukyu. Taste is clear and heavy.
Hit Models:
- Sayaka-no-mukashi (さやかの昔): Sweet aroma, easy to drink. Good for beginners.
- Ummon-no-mukashi (雲門の昔): Top tier Umami. Complex taste like seaweed soup.
Special: Beautiful magical packaging. Looks like old nobility. Good souvenir.

3. Ito En (伊藤園) - Tokyo (Global)

If first 2 are traditional, Ito En is “International and Innovation”. You might know this name from bottled tea in 7-11, but actually Ito En is the biggest tea trader in Japan.

History: Founded 1966 (Younger) but grew fast with modern production technology.
Taste Style: Focus on “Fresh and Accessible”. Taste is Modern, not as complex as above 2, but extremely Consistent.
Hit Models:
- Matcha Green Tea (Traditional): Ziplock bag sold worldwide. Good for simple sweets and drinks.
Highlight: Easiest to find. Sold in almost every Japanese supermarket worldwide.

🇯🇵 Other Interested Brands

Besides these 3 gods, there are many good brands:

Gion Tsujiri (祇園辻利): Famous for sweets and matcha parfait in Kyoto. Powder is also delicious.
Fukujuen (福寿園): Old brand with own tea research center.

Summary: Which to Try First?

Want Standard: Go Marukyu Koyamaen (Aoarashi)
Want Premium/Deep: Go Ippodo (Sayaka)
Want Simple Baking: Go Ito En

Tasting tea from legendary brands is time traveling through taste. If visiting Japan or finding importer, don’t hesitate to grab one!