The Hayashi Tea Garden in Kirishima

Traditional Cultivation

In harmony with nature

At the foot of the picturesque Kirishima Mountains lies a place where tea is not only grown, but lived: the Hayashi family tea garden. Founded in 1897, this tea garden is more than just a plantation; it is the heart of a family that has perfected the art of tea cultivation over generations.

The Hayashi family tea field.

Perfection in Tea Cultivation

Shutaro Hayashi, a member of the fifth generation, continues the legacy with a mix of tradition and innovation. The story begins with his father Osamu's decision to turn away from pesticides and return to organic farming. This philosophy of respecting nature forms the basis for the unique quality of their teas.

Hayashi family on their tea field.

A tea garden full of diversity

The Hayashi family tea garden is characterized by an impressive variety of tea bush varieties, including Asatsuyu, Yabukita, Kanaya Midori and Zairaishu. This diversity enables a diverse range of teas, ranging from the natural sweetness of Asatsuyu to the complex flavors of Zairaishu grown from seed.

The short distances from harvest to processing allow the freshness and purity of each leaf to be preserved. By combining traditional methods with Shutaro Hayashi's scientifically based approach, teas are created that are appreciated both in Japan and internationally.

The tea field of the Hayashi family from Kirishima. Information about the teas is displayed in the lower part of the picture.