The Great Osaka Tea Gathering, known as Dai Osaka Ochakai, was held on 24th and 25th January, marking its 7th edition. Organized by an online-based community of tea enthusiasts, the event is built around a clear philosophy: enjoying tea, learning from what others are drinking, and expanding one’s world through tea centered exchange. The gathering is operated entirely by volunteer staff, all of whom are tea lovers supporting the event as a cultural activity rather than a commercial enterprise.
On the 24th, our team members, Machi and Simona visited the event together with Diana, a fellow member of the tea community. Although the official start time was 1:00 p.m., the level of interest was evident almost immediately. Long lines formed at the reception area, and an additional room was required to manage the crowd shortly after opening.
Approximately 50 booths filled the venue. Tea producers, tea shops, and independent vendors gathered to offer tastings and sales of a wide range of teas, including Japanese green teas, black teas, Chinese teas, and teas from Vietnam. Beyond tea itself, visitors could also find teaware, sweets, small goods, and self published books, reflecting the broader cultural ecosystem that surrounds tea.
Admission was set at 1,000 yen. Visitors arrived with their own small tea cups and moved through the venue from booth to booth, tasting, asking questions, and exchanging impressions. During the first two hours in particular, the space was densely crowded. Tea lovers of all generations were present, creating an atmosphere that was lively, focused, and distinctly communal.
One of the most valuable aspects of the Great Osaka Tea Gathering is the opportunity to speak directly with producers. Machi took advantage of this setting to ask questions and deepen their understanding through conversation. Events of this kind are supported by a very limited number of producers who are willing to travel with their tea, teaware, and equipment. Many operate on a small scale, yet share a strong desire to sell their products personally, along with a clear pride and confidence in their work. Among the exhibitors were tea farmers whose teas are regularly used as teaching materials by GJTea courses.
One particularly meaningful exchange took place with a tea farmer dedicated to preserving traditional Mandokoro tea production. This producer had previously launched a crowdfunding campaign to sustain their work, a project that GJTea had also supported. During the event, conversation revealed that the campaign had exceeded expectations and continued to generate strong interest afterward. As a result, the producer has been able to pursue new activities with increased momentum. Our team members, Matsu and Anna, visited the farmer the previous year.
Across many booths, a shared spirit of experimentation was evident. Japanese tea was not confined to conventional categories. Several producers are actively developing new styles, sometimes drawing inspiration from Chinese tea making techniques. This approach suggests a tea culture that remains grounded in tradition while continuing to evolve through creative exploration.
Pricing was another notable point. Teas that are often sold at relatively high prices in department stores were available here at significantly more accessible rates. Direct sales by producers, without intermediaries, allowed visitors to purchase high quality tea under conditions that felt both transparent and fair.
Over both days, seminars and workshops were also offered, including activities such as tea scoop making. Participation fees were relatively high, but the content appeared highly professional and designed for those seeking in depth and specialized knowledge.
The Dai Osaka Ochakai offers a rare opportunity to encounter an exceptionally broad range of teas and the people behind them in a single setting. The event is typically held once a year, most often in January or February. For tea enthusiasts planning a visit to Japan during this period, checking the event’s Instagram account in advance is strongly recommended.