Experience Authentic Tea Moments in the Tea Paradise of Wazuka
Wazuka Town, Kyoto Prefecture — known as one of the main production areas of Uji tea — is home to a local teahouse run by Yamajin, a long-established tea producer. On the way to the shop, gentle hills covered with tea fields stretch endlessly, unfolding the serene scenery unique to Wazuka, often called the “Tea Paradise.” Nestled within this landscape, “Wazuka Chaya Yamajin” welcomes visitors with the aroma of tea and the warmth of people, offering a truly soothing experience. Here, you can enjoy a rich moment that engages all five senses to appreciate the charm of “Wazuka Tea,” nurtured by both nature and human hands.
Pure Flavor Crafted from 100% Wazuka Tea
Yamajin’s philosophy centers on one clear belief — “100% Wazuka Tea.” Driven by the desire to convey the true taste of tea, only tea leaves grown locally in Wazuka are carefully selected. The freshly picked leaves are delicately processed to preserve their aroma and freshness. All the sweets and light meals served at the café are homemade, designed to let you savor the natural umami of tea itself. Every dish reflects the sincere craftsmanship of artisans and their deep respect for tea.
Preserving Tradition Through the Quiet Art of Stone Milling
Even in today’s age of efficiency, Yamajin continues to uphold the traditional technique of “stone milling.” Inside the shop, a stone mill gently grinds tencha (tea leaves with stems and veins removed) at a slow pace of just 40 grams per hour. From this quiet rotation emerges a delicate aroma and flavor that no machine can replicate. Each cup made using this age-old method captures the pure essence of Wazuka’s natural environment, delivering a soft and refined taste.
A Calming Space Wrapped in the Warmth of Wood
The interior, filled with the warmth of wood, exudes a tranquil atmosphere that naturally soothes the mind. Soft light gently fills the room, with both table seating and counter seats available for solo visitors. Reaching this spot after passing through Wazuka’s tea fields feels like discovering a peaceful rest stop in the middle of a journey. Surrounded by the aroma of tea, you’ll find yourself breathing deeply, immersed in a sense of relaxation.
A Hands-On Experience of Brewing Tea
The café offers a wide variety of drinks, sweets, and desserts made with Wazuka Tea. Among them, the most popular is the experience of brewing your own tea. By experimenting with different types of tea leaves and water temperatures, guests can explore the depth of tea’s flavor. Pouring hot water into the teapot and pausing for a brief moment releases a soft, enveloping aroma — a peaceful stillness that feels like savoring “the very essence of tea time.”
A New Challenge for the Teahouse — “Hifumiyoi”
In one corner of the shop, you’ll find an assortment of Wazuka teas and baked goods perfect for gifts. The highlight is the “Hifumiyoi” Baumkuchen — each piece carefully baked in the workshop. The name comes from the old Japanese counting words “Hi-Fu-Mi-Yo-I” (one-two-three-four-five), symbolizing the care put into each step of the process, layer by layer, like the tree rings it represents. Infused with the blessings of Wazuka and the spirit of the teahouse, this delicacy makes a perfect gift for loved ones or a well-deserved treat for yourself.
Unwind Your Heart with the Fragrance of Tea
Time spent at Wazuka Chaya Yamajin is more than just drinking tea — it’s an experience of “living with tea.” Through each cup born from Wazuka’s wind, aroma, light, and the touch of human hands, guests can immerse themselves in the essence of tea culture. As you sit quietly, surrounded by the breathing landscape of tea fields, it feels like a small journey away from the bustle of everyday life. Here, in harmony with nature, you can slowly feel the gentleness and depth that tea brings to the soul.