When we think of tea, many of us picture comfort, stillness, and ritual. In Japan, tea has embodied these values for more than 1,200 years. What began as a luxury for monks and nobility has become a daily source of wellness and connection, shaping both tradition and modern lifestyles.

This October, Singaporeans will have the rare opportunity to immerse themselves in this heritage at the Japan Tea Festival 2025, held on 10 October at the Jubilee Ballroom, Four Points Hotel.

A Journey Through Japan’s Tea Regions

Japan’s unique geography—stretching from snowy Hokkaido in the north to subtropical Okinawa in the south—creates a mosaic of climates that nurture distinctive teas. Regions like Uji in Kyoto, Shizuoka, and Kagoshima are renowned for their elegant sencha, gyokuro, and matcha. But the festival also shines a spotlight on lesser-known gems, such as kama-iri cha, a pan-fired tea that represents less than 0.3% of Japanese green tea production, or the earthy Mimasaka bancha from Okayama, steeped in centuries-old preparation techniques.

Wellness in Every Sip

Japanese tea is more than flavour—it is philosophy. Matcha, now a global café staple, delivers antioxidants and calm alertness, while sencha offers balance and gentle energy. Rare varieties like Saemidori from Nagasaki bring a smooth, natural sweetness, turning the simple act of brewing tea into a mindful ritual that slows us down and reconnects us with the present moment.

As Mr. Toshiaki Kirishima, President of the Japan Tea Exporter’s Association, explains: “Japanese tea represents not only refinement and tradition but also wellness, mindfulness, and the joy of shared moments.”

Culture Beyond the Cup

The Japan Tea Festival is not only about tasting tea but also about experiencing its role in Japanese life. Visitors can witness a live Obaku Baisa-ryu Sencha Ceremony performed by Professor Sosen Nakai—a rare glimpse into the refined artistry of sencha-do. Culinary pairings by ABC Cooking Studio Singapore highlight how Japanese teas elevate flavours when combined with delicate sweets. Collaborations with cultural partners such as Fukujuen Singapore, Japan Rail Café, and JTB Singapore add further layers of heritage and lifestyle connection.

A Shared Moment of Harmony

As Sher-li Torrey, Founder of Mums@Work Singapore, reflected on last year’s festival: “The festival was a celebration of taste, tradition, and craftsmanship…a reminder of how food and culture connect us across borders.” This year promises the same—an opportunity for both tea lovers and the curious to pause, sip, and savour the mindful connections that tea inspires.

Whether you are an F&B professional seeking inspiration, a wellness enthusiast looking to embrace mindfulness, or simply someone who enjoys a comforting cup, the Japan Tea Festival invites you to discover how tea can be more than a drink—it can be a way of life.

Event Details:
📅 Date: 10 October 2025
🕛 Time: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
📍 Venue: Jubilee Ballroom, Four Points Hotel Singapore
💰 Admission: Free, with walk-in or on-site registration

Follow updates on JETRO Singapore’s Facebook page.

Interested attendees are strongly encouraged to RSVP for the festival here.

To speak to distributors, please register your interest here.

Images: JETRO Singapore