SHIZUOKA –
Shizuoka Prefecture has regained its place as Japan’s main producer of first-flush tea, overtaking Kagoshima Prefecture for the primary time in two years as favorable climate and rising demand for matcha helped increase manufacturing.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Shizuoka produced 10,700 tons of aracha, or unrefined tea, from this 12 months’s first harvest, up 32% from 2025 and the very best quantity amongst Japan’s prefectures.
Kagoshima ranked second with manufacturing of 9,610 tons, a rise of 14% from 2025.
Shizuoka had suffered decrease manufacturing in 2025 as low temperatures hampered tea progress, however the ministry stated climate situations have been favorable all through this 12 months’s rising season, leading to stronger growth of the crop.
Production was additionally boosted by efforts to capitalize on the latest matcha increase. Tea growers prolonged the harvesting interval and elevated manufacturing of tencha, the tea leaves used because the uncooked materials for matcha.
Commenting on Shizuoka’s return to the highest place, Governor Yasutomo Suzuki stated, “This is the result of producers working enthusiastically to cultivate tea, and I would like to express my sincere respect for their efforts.”
Source: SBSnews6