Horii Shichimeien

Founded in 1879 during the Meiji era, Horii Shichimeien has been producing authentic Uji matcha for over 145 years. The name "Shichimeien" (Seven Famous Gardens) pays homage to the seven historic tea gardens designated by the Ashikaga Shogunate during the Muromachi period as producing Japan's finest tea. While Horii Shichimeien was established later, they honor this heritage by maintaining the traditional cultivation and production methods that made these gardens legendary. The company owns and operates its own tea gardens in Uji, giving them complete control over quality from plant to package. This vertical integration is rare among tea producers and ensures consistency and authenticity. Over five generations, the Horii family has refined their craft while preserving the traditional techniques that define true Uji matcha.

Horii Shichimeien matcha showcases the refined elegance of authentic Uji tea. The color is a brilliant jade-green with excellent vibrancy, indicating high chlorophyll content and proper cultivation. The aroma is sophisticated—sweet grass, umami-rich seaweed, and subtle floral notes that invite you to taste. On the palate, you experience a harmonious balance: natural sweetness emerges first, followed by deep umami that builds gradually, with gentle vegetal notes and minimal bitterness. The texture is silky smooth, creating a creamy mouthfeel without heaviness. Premium grades like Shichimei no Mukashi offer extraordinary depth, with umami that lingers for minutes and a sweetness that emerges in the finish. The overall experience is refined and contemplative, perfect for traditional tea ceremony or mindful daily practice.