Savoring Centuries of Tradition: A Journey into Mie Prefecture's Tea Culture

Through visits to an ancient tea shop and a family tea farm, we unraveled the captivating story of Mie's tea heritage, blending centuries of tradition, export history, and the exquisite flavors of its renowned green teas.

Written by Kelly Morita

-Table of Contents -

・Seki-juku – A Historical Post-town

・A Legacy of Tea

・Tasting Tea

・Exploring the History of Tea Farming

・Wrap-up

Seki-juku – A Historical Post-town

Seki-juku exudes history everywhere you go

Surrounded by the mountains of Mie prefecture, where time seems to have paused, lies Seki-juku—a town that whispers tales of old Japan along the Tokaido Highway. As I delved into its history, I discovered a Japanese tea business that took root here in 1865. Today, Seki-juku proudly stands as the most well-preserved post town from the Edo period (1603-1867), offering a captivating glimpse into a bygone era.

The center of Seki-juku's history with tea

The exterior of the tea shop

A Legacy of Tea

At the center of Seki-juku's tea legacy is an ancient tea shop that kickstarted the region's tea trade. Nestled within its historic walls, this shop is a custodian of Mie prefecture's tea heritage. Stepping inside, my eyes were drawn to a hanging scroll on the wall, vividly portraying the intricate manufacturing process of tea. The scroll painted a harmonious scene of men and women, young and old, working in unison—a testament to the enduring craftsmanship that defines Japanese tea culture.

Art showing the craftsmanship of tea

Mie prefecture has been cultivating tea for centuries, with its roots reaching back a staggering 1,000 years. Tea cultivation officially commenced around 800 years ago during the early Kamakura period. In the Edo period (1603 - 1867), tea from Mie was sold as "Ise-cha" and even found its way to the United States as a precious export at the end of this era.

Ms. Chinami readies the tea

Preparing for the tea tasting

Tasting Tea

Meeting Ms. Chinami, the gracious owner of the tea shop, was an honor. With her warm hospitality, she allowed us to embark on a flavorful journey through Mie's diverse green teas. Our tasting session featured three exquisite varieties: Kabusecha, a sweet tea from the northern part of the prefecture, delicately grown around May; Sencha, another sweet tea from the southern region, also flourishing in May; and Autumn Bancha, grown around September and October, boasting a wild taste reminiscent of teas found in the United States.

The first sip

Ms. Chinami explains the differences between teas

Exploring the History of Tea Farming

Ms. Chinami invited us to a private tea farm, not open to the public, where her tea is grown. There we met Kenji Fukushima, a dedicated fifth-generation tea farmer, who keeps the flame of the tea business alive. With over 100-year-old tea trees, Fukushima's family has crafted tea for generations. Surrounded by towering trees that shield the delicate tea leaves from excessive sunlight, the farm is a sanctuary of tradition and craftsmanship.

Beautiful autumn foliage

Standing amidst the ancient tea trees, I couldn't help but marvel at the meticulous care and respect Fukushima invests in his craft. The legacy of these time-honored trees and the traditions woven into the fabric of Mie prefecture's tea culture create a profound connection between the past and the present.

Mr. Fukushima, a fifth-generation farmer

Tea plants cultivated neatly in rows

This tea expedition reminded me of another captivating aspect of Japan—unique tea ceremonies that elevate the experience of savoring Mie's renowned green teas. These ceremonies, performed with meticulous precision and a sense of reverence, provide a deeper understanding of the intricate rituals associated with tea preparation and consumption in this region. Nestled within traditional tearooms adorned with elegant tatami mats, these ceremonies become a symphony of gestures, bringing to life the centuries-old traditions that have shaped Mie's tea culture. The graceful movements of tea masters, and the serene atmosphere of these gatherings add a profound dimension to the already rich tapestry of Mie's tea heritage, making each sip a journey through time and tradition.

If you ever have a chance to experience tea in Japan in whichever way possible, I promise you, you won’t be disappointed.

Sold in store, Hyakunen-no-cha

As we sipped the teas crafted by the skilled hands of Ms. Chinami and the Fukushima family, the flavors whispered stories of generations past. Mie Prefecture's tea culture is not merely a beverage; it is a living narrative, a blend of history, tradition, and the unyielding passion of those who continue to nurture this time-honored craft.

Wrap-up

In the quiet charm of Seki-juku and the flourishing tea fields, I found myself immersed in a timeless journey through the rich tapestry of Mie's tea culture—a journey that left me not only with a deeper appreciation for Japanese tea but also with a profound respect for the artisans who breathe life into this centuries-old tradition.

Information

Kaneki Tea Store

Address: 390 Nakamachi, Sekicho, Kameyama City, Mie Prefecture

Business hours: 10:00am-5:00pm

Closed: Wednesdays and Sundays

Official website: https://www.kaneki-isecha.com/ (Japanese)