Over the past few decades, Japanese tea has faced numerous challenges. Within Japan, it is often seen as too ordinary and outdated, leading to a decline in both domestic interest and production. Yet, there are individuals working with passion and creativity to shape a new future for Japanese tea. To highlight these efforts, we launched the Japanese Tea Conference in 2023. This event aims to bring attention to inspiring tea-related initiatives and to provide a space for tea-minded individuals to connect. The next conference will be held in Tokyo on November 15th 2026. We warmly invite you to join us.
Tokyo, November 15th 2026
| Shinagawa Season Terrace
Hall 1-2-70 Konan, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0075, Japan
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Program Overview
The 2026 Japanese Tea Conference will showcase innovative tea projects from Japan and offer international perspectives on the future of Japanese tea. The program includes presentations by:
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Japanese Tea Innovators – individuals in Japan leading inspiring and forward-thinking tea initiatives
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Japanese Tea Catalysts – educators and advocates promoting Japanese tea in various parts of the world
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Japanese Tea Students – active young people who are learning about and promoting Japanese tea culture
In addition to the presentation, a tea party will provide an opportunity to enjoy delicious teas from across Japan while engaging in conversation with speakers and fellow attendees.
*Online participation will also be available, for those who cannot attend it at the venue.
Japanese Tea Innovators
At the this year’s conference, Daisuke Horiguchi from the Horiguchi Seicha will explore how robotic and mechanization is changing Japanese tea production. Ken Miura from Chabakka Tea Parks will introduce the concept of nitrogen infused draft tea. Masayuki Inaida will speak about how a portable tea space can define tea experience.
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| Daisuke Horiguchi | Ken Miura | Masayuki Inaida |
| Horiguchi Seicha | Chabakka Tea Parks | Kian |
Japanese Tea Catalysts
Marjolein Raijmakers will share her observations on the Japanese tea landscape in various countries of Europe. Han Le from Thés Guru will explore how Japanese tea trends have been changing in Canada. Steen Pipper from the Tea Road will offer insights into how Japanese tea is perceived in Denmark.
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| Marjolein Raijmakers | Han Le | Steen Pipper |
| Nagasaki Ikedoki Tea in Japan | Thés Guru in Canada | Tea Road in Denmark |
Japanese Tea Students
We will also hear from Japanese Tea Students – university students from Japan who, after learning about tea, participated in study abroad programs and introduced Japanese tea in their host countries. In the past year, 30 Tea Evangelists traveled to 15 countries and will share their experiences and activities from abroad.
Schedule
12:30pm Registration opens
1pm Welcome speech
1:30pm Presentations by Japanese Tea Innovators
3:10pm Tea party
4:30pm Presentations by Japanese Tea Catalysts
5:30pm Speeches by Japanese Tea Students
5:50pm Closing speech
6pm End of the conference
Admission Fee
TBD
Registration
Registration for Japanese Tea Conferences 2026 will open soon.