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Japan

# Nakamura Tokichi – Premier Matcha Experience in Uji, Japan
Nakamura Tokichi, a renowned restaurant in Uji, Shiga, specializes in matcha and hojicha, offering a unique culinary experience. Established with a vision to promote traditional Japanese tea culture, it has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists. The restaurant features a serene ambiance, highlighted by a beautiful garden that enhances the dining experience. Visitors rave about the extensive variety of matcha products available, from traditional teas to innovative desserts. With its rich history and commitment to quality, Nakamura Tokichi stands out as a must-visit spot in Uji.

## History
### The story of Nakamura Tokichi
Nakamura Tokichi was founded with the vision of preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Japanese tea culture. The establishment aims to provide an authentic experience that showcases the depth and variety of matcha and hojicha, two quintessential Japanese teas. The founders believed in the importance of quality and tradition, ensuring that every product reflects the essence of Uji's tea legacy.

### Milestones and growth
- Established in Uji, a city known for its high-quality tea.
- Expanded its offerings to include a diverse range of matcha products.
- Gained recognition as a top destination for matcha enthusiasts.
- Opened additional locations to cater to growing demand.
- Continues to innovate with new menu items while respecting traditional methods.

### Cultural and local influence
Nakamura Tokichi has significantly influenced the local culture by promoting Uji's tea heritage. The restaurant serves as a cultural hub, attracting visitors who wish to learn about and experience traditional Japanese tea practices. Its commitment to quality has inspired other local businesses to uphold similar standards, fostering a community that values craftsmanship and tradition.

### Continuing the tradition
The restaurant remains dedicated to continuing the tradition of Japanese tea culture. By sourcing high-quality ingredients and employing skilled artisans, Nakamura Tokichi ensures that each product is crafted with care. The establishment also engages in educational initiatives, sharing knowledge about tea preparation and the cultural significance of matcha and hojicha with its patrons.

## Community
### Community involvement
Nakamura Tokichi actively participates in community events and initiatives that promote local culture and sustainability. The restaurant collaborates with local farmers and artisans to source its ingredients, thereby supporting the local economy. Additionally, it hosts workshops and events that educate the community about the art of tea-making and the importance of preserving traditional practices.

### Community notion about the place
The local community holds Nakamura Tokichi in high regard, viewing it as a symbol of Uji's rich tea heritage. Many residents appreciate the restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition, often recommending it to visitors as a must-visit destination. The establishment is seen as a gathering place where locals and tourists alike can enjoy the beauty of Uji's tea culture.

### Events and gatherings
Nakamura Tokichi hosts various events throughout the year, including tea tastings, workshops, and seasonal celebrations. These events provide opportunities for community members and visitors to engage with Japanese tea culture and learn more about the intricacies of matcha and hojicha. The restaurant's serene setting makes it an ideal venue for gatherings, fostering a sense of community among tea enthusiasts.

## Offerings
### What Nakamura Tokichi offers
Nakamura Tokichi offers a diverse range of products and experiences centered around matcha and hojicha. The restaurant features a menu that includes traditional tea ceremonies, innovative desserts, and savory dishes infused with matcha. Visitors can also explore the retail section, which offers a variety of tea-related merchandise, including high-quality matcha and hojicha for home preparation.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Nakamura Tokichi is designed to immerse guests in the world of Japanese tea. The menu features items such as matcha soba, matcha parfaits, and hojicha desserts, all crafted with precision and care. The serene atmosphere, complemented by views of the garden, enhances the overall experience, making each visit memorable. Guests often highlight the quality of the ingredients and the artistry involved in the presentation of each dish.

### Events and packages
Nakamura Tokichi offers various event packages that cater to different occasions, from private tea ceremonies to group workshops. These packages provide an opportunity for guests to engage with Japanese tea culture in a more personalized setting. The restaurant also accommodates special events, allowing guests to celebrate milestones while enjoying the unique offerings of Nakamura Tokichi.

### Facilities and features
- Serene garden view
- Traditional tea ceremony space
- Retail section with tea products
- QR code ordering system for convenience
- Outdoor seating area for a tranquil dining experience

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Nakamura Tokichi often highlight the exceptional quality of matcha and hojicha, as well as the serene ambiance of the restaurant. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to sample various teas before making a purchase, enhancing their overall experience. However, some reviewers note that the wait times can be lengthy, especially during peak tourist seasons.

### Compliments and strengths
- High-quality matcha and hojicha products
- Beautiful and tranquil setting
- Knowledgeable and friendly staff
- Variety of menu options catering to different tastes
- Opportunity to sample teas before purchasing

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While many guests rave about the food quality, some have expressed that the wait times can detract from the experience. Additionally, a few reviews mention that certain dishes may not meet the high expectations set by the restaurant's reputation. Despite these contrasts, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many visitors eager to return.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Nakamura Tokichi is celebrated for its dedication to quality and tradition. While the wait times may pose a challenge, the exceptional matcha and hojicha offerings, coupled with the serene atmosphere, make it a worthwhile destination for tea enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Nakamura Tokichi is located in Uji, Shiga, Japan, a city renowned for its rich tea culture and history. The restaurant is situated near Uji Station, making it easily accessible for visitors traveling from Kyoto. The surrounding area is dotted with cultural landmarks, including Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the picturesque Uji River. Visitors can explore the charming streets of Uji, filled with shops offering various matcha products and traditional sweets, enhancing their overall experience in this beautiful city.

## FAQs
**What type of cuisine does Nakamura Tokichi serve** The restaurant specializes in matcha and hojicha dishes and desserts.
**Is there a wait time to dine at Nakamura Tokichi** Yes, wait times can vary, especially during peak hours.
**Can I purchase matcha products to take home** Yes, the retail section offers a variety of matcha and hojicha products.
**Are there vegetarian options available** Yes, the menu includes vegetarian-friendly dishes.
**Is Nakamura Tokichi family-friendly** Yes, the restaurant welcomes families and offers a variety of menu options for all ages.

## Visit Nakamura Tokichi Today
Experience the rich heritage of Japanese tea culture at Nakamura Tokichi in Uji, Shiga. With its exceptional offerings of matcha and hojicha, serene ambiance, and community involvement, it stands as a testament to the beauty of traditional Japanese dining. Whether you're a tea enthusiast or a casual visitor, Nakamura Tokichi promises a memorable experience that celebrates the essence of Uji's tea legacy.

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The place for matcha... Let me just say that I've never had this much variety of Matcha and Hojicha in such a luxurious ways and here at Nakamura Tokichi located in Uji Kyoto but I was in complete bliss as soon as I got here. Located just across the street from Uji Station which all you need to do is take the JR Nara like from Kyoto Station it was an easy ride and didn't even realize how easy it was to get here and just couldn't believe it once I saw the famous noren and to walk into the shop. The whole vibe is what you'd expect visiting Kyoto the calmness and character of it all was very zen like as the garden that separates the shop and restaurant had me in disbelief I have arrived! I knew exactly what I was looking for and was lucky to have a couple tins of matcha left, candies and chocolates that alone I was in complete bliss I was happy to have the two tins as there was a delay in train service due to a security incident we got there very late but made up in time as I was happy to see the items that I wanted. They also had samples of various teas that they sell so you can try beforehand if you're unsure of what type you're looking for. We later signed up for soba at the restaurant and was happy to see it was less than a ten minutes wait and was lucky to have a seat in the lanai area to overlook the garden and what a service we had, nothing like it and was just worth every effort to get here as the whole experience was perfect. どうもありがとうございます！

12edd53a-1ad8-4973-ae9e-7ec6c204c17b

I'm no matcha expert but this seems like THE place to go for matcha and matcha related snacks and desserts. Staff here is pretty helpful and friendly. The shop itself was pretty big compared to the other ones we saw and had all the matcha stuff you could imagine. We bought plenty of matcha and sencha as well as some intense matcha and hojicha chocolate. As for the cafe, like the other reviews mention, the wait was a little long so we were able to go to the Kyoto Station location with no wait at all (though it was a little hard to locate at first). Great stop while in Uji though if you're just shopping.

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This place was a highlight of our trip. I didn't really do much research on which tea shops to go to in Uji, but I knew this was the big one so we came here at around 10:30am and were 80th in line already for the cafe. We shopped while we waited, and you can sample their teas in the shop. They were all delicious but I really liked the nakamura blend and the hojicha. We grabbed some loose leaf teas and tea bags. The tea chocolates were also really strong and tasty, and I wish I had bought more of the madeleines. The cookies we tried later were a bit too dry and strongly tasted of tea. After we went somewhere else for lunch, we checked our place in line and were finally ready to be seated around 12:30 so we ran back. We were able to get one of only 3 outdoor tables overlooking the garden. Which had an interesting tree that was shaped to grow in grid-like pattern with wires, kind of like a bonsai but not small. They give you a free serving of shincha which is the freshest batch of green tea of the season, and you order via QR code menu. They have interesting things like matcha soba but we were already kind of full so we got two desserts, the hojicha tea jelly and matcha shiratama zenzai. I honestly wanted to try so many other things, but didn't want to overdo it. Both desserts were fantastic. The hojicha one had hojicha tea jelly, hojicha ice cream, red bean, and mochi balls. The matcha one came with hot or cold matcha soup kind of thing (we got cold) with mochi and red bean in it. I want to go again. I do know they have other locations for their store and cafe but I think some of the menu items are specific to the main store we were at.

afebad22-49b5-4b38-9c37-f834d5ba64bc

Woww incredible matcha, just incredible! We went to uji as a day trip and saw locals and tourists crowding around this spot. Went to check in and was placed on the waitlist with 270 parties ahead of us. It wasn't an issue because we walk around the streets of uji and was buying matcha. 2 hours later we were let in and ordered the matcha parfait and uji kin cold zenzai. You order by scanning a QR code on the table. Both were similar because it had red bean, rice ball, and matcha ice cream. It was so delicious!! Packed with rich matcha, so it was worth the wait. They also give complimentary sencha as you're waiting for your order. Inside the restaurant was super cute. They had lots of art on the walls and plenty of tables. There is definitely tables outside with a nice view, but we didn't want to during this humid heat. Will definitely come back when I am in Uji.

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Once you get inside the store, I highly recommend getting on the waiting list for the matcha cafe. Wait time was pretty long, but it gave us a good amount of time to venture around the neighborhood and in the Nakamura Tokichi storefront. The store had a bunch of merchandise to look through and all the staff I encountered were nice. After we took our time perusing and got in line to pay for our things, we still waited for a while. I believe when we got on the waiting list we were #63? Somewhere around there in the 60's. Wait time felt like two hours. We ventured off into the neighborhood and nearby stores in the area until our number started to get closer to #1. After a long wait, we finally got seated inside the cafe. The cafe was really nice inside. It had large windows for natural lighting, dark wood, and had a pretty overall aesthetic. We ordered the Matcha Tea Jelly, the Hojicha Uji Kin Cold Zenzai, and the Matcha Maruto Parfait. Everything we tasted was absolutely fantastic and we didn't care about how much time we spent waiting. The Matcha Tea Jelly and the Hojicha Uji Kin Cold Zenzai were pretty similar, they just differed in flavor. Both desserts had fun textures and it was very flavorful. There was ice cream, mochi balls, and also red bean paste in the Matcha Tea jelly. I loved the richness in flavor in both sweets, and I especially loved how rich and nutty the Hojicha one was. But for us, the star of the show was the Matcha Parfait. This dessert had so many diverse parts and textures that made up the whole. There was the tea jelly, the classic matcha ice cream, and it even had lemon jam, berries, and red beans inside too. It's actually quite impressive how much they put inside and layered everything. And the matcha desserts was served in this cute little bamboo-structure like bowl. Every bite in the Matcha Parfait was different but complemented the whole matcha theme. One bite of this bad boy and my friends and I looked at each other sharing the same sentiment: "Worth it". Nakamura Tokichi was very easy to find after arriving from the station, and also the crowd was very helpful to follow lol. I will always remember my time in Uji and the incredible desserts I ate here. I look forward to returning.

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I didn't get to try their dessert or matcha. Saw a lot of people buying packages to take home. Bought matcha tea set. There are 2 locations in Uji.

cb4f8d59-1a89-471b-8d52-4f2b09cc55cf

Nakamura Tokichi's cha-colate cookies are some of the best tea-flavored sandwich cookies that I've tasted in Kyoto, but I was less impressed with the main store's cafe's more substantive offerings, including matcha soba and parfaits, when taking into consideration the lengthy wait for a table. When you first arrive at JR Uji Station, I recommend adding your name to the waitlist at Nakamura Tokichi before checking out the rest of the city. If you're traveling during the busy tourist season (spring or fall), you should have ample time to explore Uji before your number is called, and you can check your place on the waitlist via a QR code/website. Although there were only 38 parties in front of us when we checked in at 10:45am, it took nearly 3 hours for our number to be called. If you arrive in the afternoon, the cafe may be sold out of certain dishes. (They sold out of soba shortly after we placed our orders, so we lucked out.) I'm not sure the food was worth the wait, even if it was satisfying in terms of taste and visuals. The matcha soba was similar to other matcha-infused dishes I had previously sampled in Uji and beyond, but the warm, miso-infused broth was nevertheless welcome on a cold day. The parfait was more impressive, as it featured layers of tea-infused cream, fruit, and jelly served in a hollowed-out bamboo "bowl." It was indulgent and expensive, but those seemed like lesser concerns given the wait. Note that there are alternatives to dining at the store's main branch. If you're not interested in matcha soba or special parfaits, there is a smaller branch serving limited drinks and desserts closer to Byodo-in with lighter crowds. Additionally, there are at least two stores in Tokyo (Ginza and Azabudai) with cafes that serve limited menus. So, unless you're dying for Nakamura Tokichi's version of matcha soba and indulgent parfaits, you can still get a taste for matcha and hojicha sweets.

52613b52-2d00-4cf1-a460-5880622b0c5d

Probably one of the most popular matcha destinations when visiting Uji. Long line at the door when we arrived, about an hour wait. Opted to go for it. When it was our turn, opted for a classic matcha and as well as a matcha parfait dessert. The matcha was superior quality and we ended up getting a tin from the retail store to take back home. The parfait was also quite good and not overly sweet. Balanced by the more bitter flavors in the matcha. This location is a main branch but we actually found a smaller branch about 15 min away focusing more on desserts and drinks (main branch also has more entree driven items). A bit on the pricier end but still very good.

3884c912-888d-4a9c-999e-f8c8c1c82ef4

Let me set the scene: I arrived in Uji, matcha capital of Japan, ready to ascend to green tea enlightenment. My destination? Nakamura Tokichi, the Beyoncé of matcha spots. I got off the train in Kyoto and power-walked my way to the main store, only to find 30 matcha disciples already in line before me. It's not a pilgrimage if you don't suffer, right? Wait time: 1 hour My place in line: 31 Spiritual test: passed While waiting, I wandered into the attached gift shop, lured by dreams of buying every tea I've never heard of. Sadly, the service there felt...how do I put this...like I was a ghost haunting their day. I tried to sample teas, and the staff tried to pretend I did not exist. One star off for making me feel like a matcha-thirsty phantom with no yen to spend. (Plot twist: I had plenty.) Tea Tasting: Expectation: "Let me guide you through a sensory journey of tea." Reality: "Oh, you again?" Anyway, the dining experience was a redemption arc. I over-ordered like a true tourist on a matcha bender and have no regrets. I went full matcha monster and got: Tencha Buckwheat Noodle Set w/ Matcha Jelly Maruto Parfait + Sweetened Matcha Float Set Total Damage: Around $30 USD (4,500 yen) Instagram Damage: Immeasurable Let's break it down: Tencha Soba Set: Came with cute little picture cards telling me how to eat it like I didn't already Google it in line (but yes, I still read it). The soba was fine; slightly nutty, slightly earthy but the matcha flavor... Missing. Like a soft-spoken guest at a loud party. The broth also needed a confidence boost. Thankfully, the condiments saved the day: usucha oil, shiitake mushroom, and yuzu zest turned it from "meh" to "huh, okay!" Matcha Jelly: Visually cute. Emotionally bland. It whispered matcha notes when I needed it to scream. Sweetened Matcha Float: Now this was decadent. Rich, creamy, the kind of thing that makes you pause mid-sip and go "damn." But paired with the parfait... It was like ordering two full green tea desserts and realizing you are, in fact, human. Maruto Parfait: THE star. I snagged one of the last six of the day at 11AM (they open at 10). It's got more layers than your ex's emotional baggage. Over 10 elements: tea jelly, ice cream, fluffy matcha sponge, crispy bits, lemon jam, chewy dango, salt from okoshidane. It was a textural fever dream. Every spoonful had something new, and yes, it was EXTRA. But if you're going to do a matcha parfait, why not do it like it's auditioning for the Met Gala. Final Review: Gift Shop: Casper treatment (2/5 if you're feeling polite) Noodles + Jelly: Aesthetic but underwhelming (3/5) Float: A rich queen, but overshadowed (4/5) Parfait: The hype is real. Bow down. (5/5) Overall: 4/5 with room for dramatic flair Would I return? Yes--but just for the parfait. And maybe to haunt the gift shop in return. Uji, you got me. Matcha'd, stuffed, and spiritually cleansed.

5116587b-e930-4e81-833c-b05d65f36673

Very beautiful place, calm and and peaceful but since its tourist area, it gets so crowded. Super long waiting time. Food was good to enjoyed on the hot weather..I only get to try matcha float and the tea jelly. The whole area around it sell more matcha desserts too..

Discover Nakamura Toji in Uji City, Japan, a renowned restaurant offering authentic Japanese cuisine. Experience unique flavors and cultural ambiance today.

Nakamura Toji Restaurant in Uji City, Japan - Authentic Japanese Cuisine

Uji City

中村藤吉

Explore the full menu at 中村藤吉 in Shiga. Discover signature dishes, drinks & must-try items. Visit us at 宇治壱番10, 本店, 宇治市.

中村藤吉 Menu – Food & Drinks in Shiga

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