Founded over 300 years ago in Uji, Kyoto — the birthplace of Japanese matcha — Marukyu Koyamaen (丸久小山園) is one of the most respected names in premium green tea. The brand is trusted by tea masters, cafés, and serious home brewers for its consistent, high-grade quality.
But with dozens of grades, wide price ranges, and frequent sell-outs, choosing the right tin can be confusing.
This guide breaks down the Marukyu Koyamaen matcha grade chart, explains the differences between popular blends like Isuzu and Wako, covers pricing, store locations, and how to avoid fakes — so you can confidently pick the right matcha for your needs.
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TL;DR: Marukyu Koyamaen Matcha at a Glance| Question | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| What is Marukyu Koyamaen? | One of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious matcha producers, based in Uji, Kyoto |
| Best entry-level grade | Isuzu (ceremonial, affordable) |
| Best premium grade | Wako or Aoarashi |
| Price range | ~1,000–10,000+ JPY per 20–40g tin (~S$8.11-$81) |
| Why always sold out? | Limited production, global demand, seasonal harvests |
| Where to buy | Official website, Kyoto/Tokyo/Osaka flagship stores, select overseas retailers |
| How to spot fakes | Buy from official channels; verify packaging holograms and Japanese labelling |
Table of ContentsImage Credits: 丸久小山園
Marukyu Koyamaen (丸久小山園) is far more than a single-product brand. Their catalogue includes:
While international buyers often focus on ceremonial matcha, in Japan, Marukyu Koyamaen is also highly respected as a supplier to formal chado (茶道) schools, including some of Kyoto’s most prestigious iemoto (tea ceremony houses).
Why Marukyu Koyamaen Matcha Stands Out:
Whether you’re buying in Kyoto, Tokyo, or online, Marukyu Koyamaen matcha is recognised worldwide as a benchmark for premium Japanese green tea.
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Image Credits: The KANSAI Guide
Uji, Kyoro isn’t just a place on the map – it’s the spiritual and agricultural heart of Japanese matcha culture. Nestled between Kyoto and Nara, Uji has been producing premium tea since the 13th century, where the monk Myoe Shonin first planted tea seeds boughtfrom China.
Today, Uji matcha carries Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, meaning authentic Uji matcha must meet strict regional and production standards – much like champagne in France.
Why visit Marukyu Koyamaen in Uji:
For anyone exploring the Kansai region, a stop at Marukyu Koyamaen in Uji is essential — a true pilgrimage for matcha enthusiasts.
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One of the most exciting — and sometimes overwhelming — aspects of Marukyu Koyamaen matcha is the sheer variety of grades. From everyday culinary matcha to ultra-premium ceremonial grades for formal chado (tea ceremony), there’s a lot to navigate. Here’s a simplified overview:
| Grade Tier | Examples | Best For | Approx. Price (40g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Ceremonial | Isuzu, Kiyo no Mori | Daily drinking, beginner matcha | 1,000–1,800 JPY (~S$8-15) |
| Mid Ceremonial | Yugen, Horai | Enthusiasts, regular koicha/usucha | 2,000–3,500 JPY (~S$16-28) |
| Premium Ceremonial | Aoarashi, Unkaku | Serious drinkers, tea ceremony | 4,000–6,000 JPY (~S$32-49) |
| Ultra-Premium | Wako, Tenju | Tea masters, gifting, special occasions | 7,000–12,000 JPY (~S$57-97) |
| Culinary | Various | Baking, lattes, cooking | 800–1,500 JPY (~S$6-12) |
How the Matcha Grade Chart Works:
Tip: Focus on which grades are recommended for usucha (most home drinkers) versus koicha (thick tea for formal ceremony). This helps you choose the perfect Marukyu Koyamaen matcha for your taste, brewing style, and occasion.
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With dozens of grades available, these eight are the ones most worth knowing — arranged from the most accessible to the most exclusive, so you can find exactly where to enter the range.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on origin
Image Credits: Sazen Tea
Kiyo no Mori (霧の森) — meaning “forest of mist,” a nod to Uji’s misty river valleys — is one of Marukyu Koyamaen’s most approachable ceremonial matcha in terms of price. Sitting just above the culinary tier and alongside Isuzu as an entry-level option, it’s perfect for buyers who want genuine Uji ceremonial matcha without stretching the budget.
Kiri no Mori is a practical, high-quality introduction to Marukyu Koyamaen matcha for those who want authentic Uji flavour on a budget.
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Best for: Daily drinkers and first-time buyers
Image Credits: Etsy
Isuzu (五十鈴) is the ideal entry point into Marukyu Koyamaen’s ceremonial matcha. Named after the sacred Isuzu River at the Ise Grand Shrine, it sits in the accessible ceremonial tier and is primarily intended for usucha (thin tea) — the style most people prepare at home.
While not as complex or creamy as higher-end grades like Wako or Aoarashi, Isuzu provides a reliable, high-quality ceremonial matcha experience — perfect for beginners and everyday enjoyment.
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Best for: Regular drinkers ready to move beyond entry-level
Image Credits: Midori Matcha PH
Yugen (幽玄) — inspired by the Japanese aesthetic of “profound, mysterious beauty” — is the natural next step after Isuzu. It sits in the mid-ceremonial tier, offering a fuller body and more developed umami than entry-level grades, without the price of Aoarashi or Wako.
Yugen is a dependable choice for those ready to appreciate the depth and nuance of Marukyu Koyamaen matchawithout jumping straight to the top-tier ceremonial grades.
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Best for: Mid-range drinkers wanting a reliable, well-rounded ceremonial grade
Image Credits: Marukyu Koyamaen
Horai (蓬莱) — named after the mythical isle of immortality — sits in the mid-ceremonial tier, between Yugen and Aoarashi. It’s a top choice for enthusiasts who drink matcha seriously but want a daily-grade option.
Horai is perfect for those who want a smooth, well-rounded matcha experience that rewards regular drinking, while hinting at the more complex flavours of higher-tier grades.
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Best for: Intermediate to experienced drinkers ready to step up
Image Credits: Midori Matcha PH
Aoarashi (青嵐) — meaning “green storm” or “fresh green wind” — hits the sweet spot for serious matcha enthusiasts. It is more refined than entry-level grades like Isuzu, yet more accessible in price than the ultra-premium Wako.
Aoarashi is perfect for those looking to step up from beginner grades while still enjoying approachable preparation and flavour.
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Best for: Enthusiasts seeking a step below Wako without the price
Image Credits: Marukyu Koyamaen
Unkaku (雲鶴) — meaning “crane in the clouds,” a classical motif in Japanese art — sits just below Wako in Marukyu Koyamaen’s matcha hierarchy. It’s often recommended as the most accessible entry into the ultra-premium tier.
Unkaku is perfect for enthusiasts who want ultra-premium ceremonial matcha without the extreme price or limited availability of Wako, delivering a luxurious, full-flavoured experience every time.
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Best for: Serious practitioners, special occasions, and gifting
Image Credits: Midori Matcha PH
Wako (和光) sits at the very top of the Marukyu Koyamaen matcha hierarchy. This flagship ultra-premium ceremonial matcha is the grade that has earned the brand its legendary status worldwide.
Tip: Don’t start with Wako if you’re new to ceremonial matcha. Your palate will appreciate its full depth more after experiencing the lower grades — making your first bowl truly transcendent.
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Best for: The ultimate expression of Marukyu Koyamaen matcha
Image Credits: Marukyu Koyamaen
Tenju (天授) — meaning “gift from heaven” — is the most exclusive ceremonial grade from Marukyu Koyamaen, often sitting at or above Wako depending on the harvest. Produced in extremely limited quantities from the best-performing tencha leaves of the season, Tenju is rarer and harder to find than even Wako.
Tenju represents the ultimate expression of Uji matcha craftsmanship, highlighting the full depth, complexity, and elegance that Marukyu Koyamaen matcha can achieve.
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Marukyu Koyamaen matcha is globally respected for centuries of craftsmanship, not marketing. Here’s why:
Marukyu Koyamaen is the go-to choice for serious matcha drinkers who want authentic, premium Japanese matcha.
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Many Marukyu Koyamaen matcha grades sell out quickly — and it’s not hype. Here’s why:
Tips to secure your matcha: Sign up for restock notifications on the official site, follow Marukyu Koyamaen on social media, or buy in person at their Kyoto, Tokyo, or Osaka stores.
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Marukyu Koyamaen matcha is priced above commodity brands, reflecting its authentic Uji quality and meticulous production. Prices are based on official retail in Japan:
| Product | Weight | Approx. Price (JPY) | Approx. Price (SGD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Isuzu | 40g | 1,400–1,700 JPY | ~S$11-$14 |
| Kiri no Mori | 40g | 1,600–1,900 JPY | ~S$13–$15 |
| Yugen | 40g | 2,200–2,800 JPY | ~S$18–$23 |
| Aoarashi | 40g | 4,500–5,500 JPY | ~S$36–$45 |
| Unkaku | 40g | 5,500–6,500 JPY | ~S$45–$53 |
| Wako | 20g | 7,000–9,000 JPY | ~S$57-$73 |
| Tenju | 20g | 9,000–12,000+ JPY | ~S$73–$97 |
Notes:
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Image Credits: Marukyu Koymaen
Kyoto hosts several Marukyu Koyamaen locations, including the original Uji flagship. Key stores:
Kyoto stores typically stock the widest range, including grades that sell out online.
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Image Credits: Mindtrip
Marukyu Koyamaen is available at department store food halls and speciality tea retailers:
Stock is often limited; ultra-premium grades like Wako sell out quickly. Visit early or shortly after restocks.
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Image Credits: DMO Osaka Umeda
Select department stores and premium food halls carry Marukyu Koyamaen:
Osaka selections are smaller than Kyoto’s, but still a reliable source for popular grades.
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Image Credits: Marukyu Koyamaen
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As Marukyu Koyamaen matcha gains global popularity, counterfeit and mislabelled products have increased. Protect yourself with these tips:
Pro tip: For guaranteed authenticity, stick to official stores or authorised retailers — especially for ultra-premium grades like Wako or Tenju.
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Q: Is Marukyu Koyamaen the best matcha?
Consistently ranked among the finest Uji matcha producers (alongside Ippodo and Horii Shichimeien), it’s a reference standard for serious enthusiasts, though “best” is subjective.
Q: What is Uji matcha?
Grown in Uji, Kyoto, a region with centuries of cultivation expertise and a unique microclimate. Uji matcha is prized for umami, vibrant colour, and complexity.
Q: How should I store it?
Keep opened tins refrigerated and use within 4–8 weeks. Unopened tins: store cool and dark. Avoid strong odours.
Q: Can I use it in lattes or baking?
Use culinary grades for cooking and lattes. Premium grades (Wako, Tenju) are best savoured on their own.
Q: Usucha vs. Koicha — which grade?
Q: Can I buy it outside Japan?
Yes — through authorised international retailers or select items via the official website. Avoid unknown resellers.
Q: Why are English labels sometimes different?
Romanisation varies. Verify Japanese characters (e.g., 五十鈴 = Isuzu, 和光 = Wako) to ensure authenticity.
Q: How to prepare it properly?
Sift 1.5–2g matcha into a warmed bowl, add 70–80ml water at 70–80°C, whisk in a W or M motion until frothy. For koicha, use less water and fold gently.
Image Credits: Dragon Tea House
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