Staff recommendations- A Deep Dive into Tea Culture in Sapporo

Hello! This is Jordan from All Hokkaido. Today I want to introduce you to one of my favorite places and activities in Sapporo- a local green tea cafe. In a cozy spot in the fashionable Maruyama Koen area, I love every time I get to visit here. I’ll introduce you to two of our programs so you can put it on your itinerary too, and see how great it is for yourself!

Finding Serenity in Maruyama

Maruyama is an interesting area- it’s the “cool” area of Sapporo with a humongous park in the center of it. This park is home to the Hokkaido Shrine, who actually gifted most of the park to Sapporo city. Along with a guide, you can go on a restorative stroll through the grounds before your guide will lead you to my favorite hidden nihoncha (Japanese tea) café tucked away in a quiet residential street. This is where you will meet a true tea master.

You won’t just drink tea; you will learn the art of Sencha. I discovered that the difference between a bitter cup and a perfect one is all in the water temperature and the “last drop.” You also get to pair your teas with wagashi (traditional sweets) that are almost too beautiful to eat—handmade by the owner’s family.

• Why I love it: It feels less like a “tour” and more like visiting a friend’s home. Plus, I now know how to brew a proper cup of Sencha! Getting to speak with the owner and feel the passion he does for his cafe, tea, and Japanese culture adds depth to this visit that you get far beyond just joining a tea ceremony class.

• Check it out: Maruyama Area Exploration & Tea Experience

My Deep Dive into “Tea Cuisine”

I’ve always loved green tea, but I had never seen it treated as a main ingredient until I booked the Tea & Health Lunch. This wasn’t your average café stop; it is also a masterclass in wellness.

I sat down to a meal where a professional chef had curated every dish to highlight the health benefits and earthy flavors of Japanese tea. It felt like a secret club for foodies—pairing the freshest Hokkaido produce with the antioxidant power of high-grade leaves. If you’re like me and want your vacation meals to leave you feeling energized rather than sluggish, this is the lunch you need.

• My Highlight: Learning how tea leaves can be used as a seasoning to bring out the sweetness in local vegetables.

• Check it out: The Art of Tea & Health Lunch