May and June mark the start of shincha season in Japan—the first tea harvest of the year. This fresh, vibrant green tea is highly prized for its sweetness, low bitterness, and rich umami. In Kyoto, Japan’s matcha capital, many cafes celebrate this season by creating limited-time desserts and drinks using freshly ground seasonal matcha.
It’s not just about the flavor—it’s about celebrating nature, craftsmanship, and tradition. If you’re visiting Kyoto in early summer, this is one of the most authentic and delicious experiences you can enjoy.
If you’re visiting Kyoto in early summer, tasting freshly harvested matcha is one of the most authentic and delicious experiences you can enjoy.
Here’s Where to Try Seasonal Matcha:
1. Tsujiri Gion – A Kyoto Classic with Seasonal Flair
📍 Gion, Kyoto
Founded over 150 years ago, Tsujiri is a household name in Kyoto’s matcha scene. During May and June, they roll out seasonal parfaits and soft-serves crafted with freshly harvested Uji matcha. Their famous multi-layered matcha parfait includes warabi mochi, azuki beans, matcha jelly, chestnut cream, and a swirl of shincha soft cream—a textural and flavorful delight that truly captures the essence of Kyoto spring.
Insider Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays.
2. Saryo Tsujiri Kyoto Isetan – Matcha with a View
📍 Kyoto Station
Inside Kyoto Isetan, with a panoramic view of Kyoto Tower, Saryo Tsujiri offers a limited-edition shincha menu featuring seasonal matcha desserts. Think matcha roll cakes, iced lattes, and luscious matcha soft cream. It’s the perfect relaxing stop whether you’re arriving, departing, or just sightseeing near Kyoto Station.
Try: The Shincha Iced Latte with Matcha Jelly—refreshing, aromatic, and perfect for early summer afternoons.
3. Itohkyuemon – Matcha Heaven in Uji
📍 Uji, Kyoto
Uji is Japan’s most famous matcha-growing region, and Itohkyuemon is a historic tea company that brings this “green gold” to your plate. Their spring menu features beautifully crafted treats like matcha mont blanc, matcha tiramisu, and chilled matcha soba—all made from freshly harvested leaves.
Don’t Miss: Their Seasonal Matcha Shaved Ice (Kakigori)—generously topped with rich Uji matcha syrup, sweet red beans, and mochi. It’s the ultimate way to cool down while savoring fresh spring flavors.
Bonus: The Uji main store features a peaceful Japanese garden view from the cafe seats.
4. Nakamura Tokichi – Tea Culture Meets Innovation
📍 Uji & Kyoto Station
Blending tradition with a touch of innovation, Nakamura Tokichi offers shincha tasting sets paired with seasonal sweets. The matcha-infused chiffon cake, silky matcha jelly, and freshly whisked tea capture the spirit of the harvest.
Bonus: Their Uji Honten (main store) has a lovely Japanese garden you can view while enjoying your tea and sweets, offering a serene break from sightseeing. Their Kyoto Station location is convenient if you’re short on time but still want a proper taste of seasonal matcha culture.
5. Gion Kinana – Homemade Ice Cream, Kyoto Style
📍 Gion, Kyoto
Gion Kinana is famous for its handmade ice cream with a Kyoto twist. In spring, they offer a Shincha Kinako Parfait featuring seasonal matcha ice cream, fresh fruit, kinako mochi, and a touch of syrup. Their desserts are light but full of flavor—ideal for a sunny Kyoto afternoon.
Local Tip: Their seasonal matcha ice cream is only available until mid-June, so don’t miss your chance!
How to Enjoy the Seasonal Matcha Trail in Comfort
Kyoto’s famous tea houses are often nestled in historic districts with narrow lanes and crowded streets. Booking a private Kyoto tour with Hire Taxi Japan lets you enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned ride between each stop, without the stress of public transport or long walks.
✔️ Travel between tea houses easily
✔️ Avoid waiting in long lines or missing out on limited menu items
✔️ Create your own matcha-focused itinerary with sightseeing stops along the way
Our English-speaking drivers know the best routes and can recommend the perfect spots based on your cravings and time schedule.
Final Sip: Taste Seasonal Matcha in Every Cup
Seasonal matcha isn’t just a flavor—it’s a fleeting moment that embodies the heart of Japanese tradition. By sampling freshly harvested matcha in Kyoto during May and June, you’re not only tasting incredible tea—you’re connecting with centuries of craftsmanship and cultural pride.
Whether you’re a lifelong matcha lover or simply curious to try, these handpicked cafes will offer you a springtime memory you’ll never forget.
🍵 Book your Kyoto private tour with Hire Taxi Japan and savor every sip, stress-free!
