Where To Buy Matcha Tea Set In Tokyo: Discover Authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony Gear In 2024

Prof. Rickie Hammes II 15 Aug 2025

Thinking about bringing a piece of Japanese tradition home? Maybe you're looking for a special gift, or perhaps you want to start making that vibrant green tea yourself. Finding the perfect matcha tea set in Tokyo can feel a bit like a treasure hunt, yet it's truly a rewarding experience. This bustling city holds many spots where you can pick up everything you need to begin your own tea ritual, or simply add a beautiful item to your collection.

Tokyo, a city where ancient customs meet modern life, offers countless opportunities to connect with Japanese culture. For anyone hoping to get a matcha tea set, the options are pretty varied. You can find simple starter kits or very detailed, handcrafted pieces. It just depends on what you're hoping to find, you know, and what kind of budget you have in mind.

Whether you're a tea enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of matcha, getting your own set is a wonderful step. It's more than just buying some kitchen items; it's about connecting with a long-standing tradition. We'll show you some of the best spots to find what you're looking for, so you can pick up that perfect matcha tea set in Tokyo.

Understanding Your Matcha Tea Set Needs
- What Makes a Complete Set?
- Things to Think About Before You Buy
Top Spots to Find Your Matcha Tea Set in Tokyo
Tips for a Good Purchase
Frequently Asked Questions About Matcha Sets
Conclusion

Understanding Your Matcha Tea Set Needs

Before you start looking to where to buy matcha tea set in Tokyo, it helps to know a little about what you're after. Matcha tea sets come in all sorts of styles and sizes, you see. Some are for daily use, while others are truly works of art meant for special occasions. Knowing the difference can really help you make a good choice when you're out shopping.

What Makes a Complete Set?

A basic matcha tea set typically includes a few key items. First, there's the chawan, which is the tea bowl. These bowls are quite special, often handmade, and vary a lot in shape and design. Then, you'll want a chasen, or bamboo whisk. This tool is pretty essential for getting that smooth, frothy matcha. It's almost, you know, impossible to make good matcha without one.

Next, a chashaku, a bamboo scoop, helps you measure the matcha powder. You'll also often find a kusenaoshi, a whisk holder, which helps keep the chasen in good shape after you wash it. Some sets might include a natsume, a small container for the matcha powder itself, or even a tea cloth. It just depends on how complete you want your setup to be, really.

Things to Think About Before You Buy

When you're trying to figure out where to buy matcha tea set in Tokyo, consider a few things. Think about how often you'll use it. If it's for daily enjoyment, you might want something sturdy and easy to clean. If it's more for display or occasional use, you could go for something more delicate and decorative. The material of the chawan is also something to look at; ceramic, stoneware, or even porcelain are common.

Also, think about the size of the chawan. Some are wider for whisking, while others are deeper. The design is a big part of it too. You might like something very traditional, with muted colors and natural textures, or something more modern and colorful. Your personal taste matters a lot here, you know, as this set will be yours to use and enjoy.

Top Spots to Find Your Matcha Tea Set in Tokyo

Tokyo has a truly incredible selection of places to find just about anything, and matcha tea sets are no exception. From bustling markets to quiet, specialized shops, there's a spot for every kind of shopper. Knowing these places will certainly help you figure out where to buy matcha tea set in Tokyo, making your search much easier.

Specialty Tea Shops

These shops are often the best bet for quality and expertise. They specialize in all things tea, so you'll find a wide range of matcha powders, and naturally, the tools to prepare them. Staff members at these places are usually very knowledgeable and can offer great advice. You might even find some rare or unique pieces here, which is pretty neat.

Ippodo Tea Co. (Marunouchi, Tokyo Store): This Kyoto-based tea shop has a branch in Tokyo. They've been around for a very long time, offering top-notch teas and tea ceremony tools. You can find high-quality chawans, chasens, and full sets here. It's a rather trusted name, so you know the quality will be good.
When you visit, take your time to look at the different kinds of bamboo whisks, for instance. They have whisks with different numbers of prongs, each designed for a slightly different whisking experience. You can also often sample some of their teas, which is a lovely way to decide on your purchase.
Cha Ginza: Located in the Ginza area, this shop offers a modern take on Japanese tea. While they focus on tea, they also carry a selection of tea ware. It’s a good place if you're looking for something that blends tradition with a more contemporary feel. The atmosphere is quite refined, and the items are beautifully presented.
You might find unique chawan designs here that you wouldn't see in more traditional stores. They sometimes have items from newer artisans, which offers a fresh perspective on tea ceremony tools. It's a very pleasant shopping experience, too, for those who appreciate design.
Other Local Tea Houses: Many smaller, local tea houses throughout Tokyo also sell tea sets. These might be a bit harder to find, but they often offer a more personal shopping experience. You could stumble upon a hidden gem, perhaps a unique, handcrafted bowl made by a local potter. These smaller places often have a very special charm.
Exploring neighborhoods like Yanaka or Kagurazaka might lead you to such spots. It's a bit like a treasure hunt, actually, but the rewards can be truly wonderful. Just keep your eyes open for signs that say "お茶" (ocha, meaning tea) or "茶道具" (chadogu, meaning tea ceremony tools).

Traditional Craft Stores and Department Stores

These places offer a wider range of items, often including beautiful Japanese crafts. Department stores, especially, have dedicated sections for traditional goods and kitchenware, which are excellent places to find your matcha tea set in Tokyo. They tend to have a good mix of price points and styles.

Mitsukoshi, Isetan, Takashimaya (Department Stores): Major department stores like these, found in areas like Shinjuku, Ginza, and Nihonbashi, have extensive housewares and traditional crafts sections. They usually carry a selection of matcha bowls, whisks, and other tea ceremony items. The quality is generally very high, and the presentation is top-notch.
You'll find items from well-known pottery regions across Japan, so you can pick a chawan with a specific regional style, for instance. The staff are usually very helpful, and the shopping environment is comfortable. It's a good place to compare different styles and prices all in one spot, which is pretty convenient.
Oriental Bazaar (Harajuku): While it's more of a souvenir shop, Oriental Bazaar has a decent selection of Japanese crafts, including some basic matcha tea sets and individual pieces. It's a popular spot for tourists, so the prices might be a bit higher, but it's convenient if you're in the Harajuku area. You can find some decent starter sets here, too.
It's a good place if you're looking for something quick and easy, or if you just want a simple set to get started. They have a lot of other Japanese items, so you can do all your souvenir shopping at once, which is rather efficient. Just be sure to check the quality of the items you pick up.
Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square: This place in Aoyama showcases traditional Japanese crafts from all over the country. You can find truly exquisite pottery, including chawans, that are works of art. While it might not have full "sets" in the pre-packaged sense, you can certainly put together a very high-quality set by choosing individual pieces. It's a very special place to visit.
The items here are often handcrafted by master artisans, so they carry a certain weight and history. If you're looking for something truly unique and of very fine craftsmanship, this is a spot you should definitely consider. It's a bit like an art gallery, actually, but everything is for sale.

Kitchenware Districts and Marketplaces

For a truly immersive shopping experience, and often better prices, head to areas that specialize in kitchen goods. This is where many restaurants and cafes buy their supplies, so you know the selection will be extensive. This is arguably one of the best places to find where to buy matcha tea set in Tokyo, especially if you want variety.

Kappabashi Street (Kitchen Town): Located between Ueno and Asakusa, Kappabashi Street is famous for selling everything related to restaurants and kitchens. You'll find countless shops selling tableware, pottery, and cooking utensils. Many stores here carry a wide array of chawans, chasens, and other tea ceremony tools at various price points.
It's a fantastic place to browse, you know, and really compare different styles and qualities. You can buy individual pieces to build your own custom set, which is pretty cool. Prices here can be quite reasonable, especially compared to department stores, as it's a wholesale district. It's a fun place to just walk around, too, even if you're not buying anything specific.
You'll see shops dedicated just to pottery, some with rows and rows of different bowls. It's a bit overwhelming in the best possible way. You might find a chawan that speaks to you, something with a unique glaze or shape. And you can get all the other little tools, like the scoop and whisk, at very good prices here. It's truly a paradise for anyone interested in kitchen items.
Ameyoko Market (Ueno): While more known for food and general goods, you can sometimes find smaller stalls or shops within Ameyoko that sell ceramics and household items. It's a bit more hit-or-miss for a complete matcha set, but you might find individual pieces at very competitive prices. It's a lively, bustling market, so it's an experience in itself.
It's worth a look if you're in the area, but don't go there expecting to find a dedicated matcha tea set shop. It's more about stumbling upon a good deal, which can be quite satisfying. You might find a simple chawan or a bamboo whisk among other household goods, you know, at a bargain price.

Souvenir Shops and Tourist Areas

For convenience, especially if you're pressed for time, souvenir shops in major tourist spots can offer basic matcha sets. These are often more geared towards tourists, so the quality might vary, but they are easy to find. This is where to buy matcha tea set in Tokyo if you just need something quick and easy.

Asakusa (Nakamise-dori): The street leading up to Senso-ji Temple is lined with souvenir shops. Many of these shops sell basic matcha tea sets, often packaged as gifts. They are convenient and easy to find, though the quality might not be as high as in specialty stores. It's a good option for a quick pick-up.
You'll find plenty of options here, from simple bowls to full sets with a whisk and scoop. They are typically quite affordable, which is a plus if you're on a budget. Just be aware that these are generally mass-produced items, not unique artisan pieces. Still, they make for a nice memento of your trip, you know.
Tokyo Skytree Town / Tokyo Tower: These major tourist attractions often have large gift shops that carry a range of Japanese souvenirs, including basic tea sets. Similar to Asakusa, these are convenient but might not offer the highest quality or most unique items. They are good for a last-minute purchase.
You can find pre-packaged sets that are ready to go, which is super convenient if you're in a hurry. They might also have some novelty items or sets with famous Tokyo landmarks on them. It's an easy way to get a set without having to search too widely, which is rather helpful for busy travelers.
Airport Shops (Narita/Haneda): If you truly run out of time, the duty-free and souvenir shops at Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports often have a selection of matcha tea sets. These are usually basic, pre-packaged sets, but they are a lifesaver if you forgot to buy one during your trip. The prices might be a bit higher, as you might expect.
It's definitely a last resort, but it's good to know the option is there. You can pick up a simple set, you know, right before you fly home. They usually have a decent range of matcha powders too, so you can get everything you need in one go. It's pretty convenient for those final moments.

Online Options for Later

While you're in Tokyo, the real joy is finding something in person. But if you can't find exactly what you want, or if you want to add to your collection later, there are online options. Many Japanese retailers ship internationally. You can, for instance, find a lot of items that are similar to what you might see in Tokyo's physical stores. Learn more about buying unique items on our site, and link to this page for more Japanese crafts.

Websites like Etsy, for instance, feature many independent sellers who create or source beautiful Japanese pottery and tea tools. You might find unique, handcrafted chawans there that are just as special as something you'd find in a Tokyo shop. It's a good way to support small creators, too. Similarly to how you might shop for electronics or household goods online, you can certainly find tea sets.

Some Japanese tea companies also have their own international online stores. This can be a good way to buy high-quality matcha and corresponding tools directly. It's worth checking their official websites. You might find exclusive items or special promotions that aren't available elsewhere, which is pretty neat. It's a good alternative if you want to buy more items after your trip.

Tips for a Good Purchase

When you're out looking to where to buy matcha tea set in Tokyo, keep these tips in mind to make sure you get something you'll truly love and use. It's not just about the price, but also about the quality and how it feels to you. You want something that feels right, you know, something you'll enjoy using for a long time.

Check the Whisk (Chasen) Quality: A good bamboo whisk is essential. Look for one with many fine prongs (around 80-100 prongs is common for good matcha). The prongs should be flexible and not easily breakable. A well-made chasen will last longer and make better matcha foam. This is, arguably, the most important tool in the set.
Feel the Bowl (Chawan): Hold the chawan in your hands. Does it feel comfortable? Is the weight right for you? Some people prefer heavier bowls, while others like lighter ones. The texture inside the bowl can also affect whisking, so feel that too. It's a very personal choice, really.
Consider a Starter Set: If you're new to matcha, a pre-packaged starter set can be a good idea. These usually include the basic items you need and are often more affordable. You can always upgrade individual pieces later as you get more into it. It's a simple way to begin, you know, without too much fuss.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask: In specialty shops, ask the staff for recommendations. They are usually very happy to help and can explain the differences between various items. This is especially true if you're looking for specific materials or regional styles. They can offer insights you wouldn't get just by looking.
Compare Prices: If you have time, visit a few different places before making a final decision. Prices for similar items can vary, especially between department stores and wholesale districts like Kappabashi. A little comparison shopping can save you some money, which is always a good thing, you know.
Look for "Made in Japan": While not every item needs to be strictly made in Japan, especially for basic tools, for higher quality or traditional pieces, look for items that specify their origin. This usually indicates better craftsmanship and authenticity. It gives you a bit more confidence in your purchase, too.

Frequently Asked Questions About Matcha Sets

People often have a few common questions when they're thinking about getting a matcha tea set. Here are some answers to things you might be wondering about, helping you figure out where to buy matcha tea set in Tokyo and what to expect.

How much does a matcha tea set cost in Tokyo?

The cost really varies a lot, you know. A basic starter set in a souvenir shop might be around 3,000 to 5,000 JPY. Mid-range sets from department stores or larger tea shops could be anywhere from 8,000 to 15,000 JPY. If you're looking for very high-quality, handcrafted pieces from specialty craft stores, individual chawans alone can easily go for 10,000 JPY or much, much more, depending on the artist and materials. It just depends on what you're looking for, actually.

What should be included in a basic matcha tea set?

A very basic set typically includes a chawan (tea bowl), a chasen (bamboo whisk), and a chashaku (bamboo scoop). Some starter sets might also come with a kusenaoshi (whisk holder) and a small amount of matcha powder to get you started. These items are pretty essential for making matcha properly, you know, so look for them.

Can I buy individual pieces to build my own set?

Absolutely! Many stores, especially in places like Kappabashi Street and specialty tea shops, sell individual components. This is actually a great way to customize your set and pick out pieces that you truly love. You can choose a chawan that speaks to you, then select a chasen and chashaku that fit your needs. It's a really good way to make your set unique, you see, and tailored to your preferences.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect matcha tea set in Tokyo is truly a memorable part of visiting this amazing city. From the detailed craftsmanship you'll find in specialty tea shops to the wide selection in places like Kappabashi Street, there's a set for every taste and budget. You can explore the various neighborhoods, picking up unique items that will bring a piece of Japanese culture right into your home.

Whether you're after a simple starter kit or a truly artistic chawan, Tokyo has a place for you. So, take your time, enjoy the search, and pick out something that feels just right. You'll be whisking up your own delicious matcha in no time, and it'll be a little piece of your Tokyo adventure. It's pretty exciting, you know, to have such a special item.

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