Kanehachi Chaen Co., Ltd. is a revered Japanese tea producer headquartered in Shizuoka, Japan — a region globally recognized as the heartland of premium green tea cultivation. Founded with a deep-rooted philosophy of “quality through tradition,” the company has become a prominent figure in both domestic and international tea markets, thanks to its commitment to excellence, sustainability, and innovation.
Core Business and Product Offerings
Kanehachi Chaen's business model is centered around the comprehensive production of high-grade Japanese teas, encompassing cultivation, processing, packaging, and distribution. Their diverse product catalog includes:
- Japanese Green Teas:
- Sencha: A classic steamed green tea known for its fresh, grassy aroma and umami profile.
- Matcha: Stone-ground powdered green tea, popular in both ceremonial and culinary uses.
- Gyokuro: A luxury shaded tea with high theanine levels and a naturally sweet taste.
- Hojicha: Roasted green tea with a nutty flavor and low caffeine content.
- Genmaicha: A savory blend of green tea and roasted brown rice.
- Kamairicha: Pan-fired green tea offering a unique toasty character.
- Kukicha: A stem tea appreciated for its mild, sweet flavor.
- Kamicha: A specialty tea that blends traditional methods with rare tea leaves.
- Specialty Lines:
- CHAKA Series: Designed for modern tea drinkers, offering teas in stylish formats and blends.
- Tenku no Cha: Premium grade teas cultivated in high-altitude tea gardens.
- Gift Sets: Beautifully packaged assortments ideal for ceremonial gifting and seasonal promotions.
Unique Selling Proposition and Specialization
Kanehachi Chaen stands out in the competitive tea market due to:
- Terroir Advantage: Shizuoka Prefecture accounts for over 40% of Japan’s green tea production. Kanehachi leverages this rich agricultural heritage and optimal climate for leaf quality.
- Integrated Operations: The company controls every step of the supply chain, from field to packaging, enabling full traceability and consistent product quality.
- Craftsmanship + Technology: Traditional steaming and rolling methods are combined with modern machinery to preserve flavor and ensure safety.
- Premium Branding: Their CHAKA and Kamicha series cater to both premium consumers and export-focused markets with elevated branding and packaging.
Financials and Market Reach
Though privately held, industry estimates suggest:
- Annual Revenue: Estimated between $3M and $7M
- Production Output: Processes over 80 tons of green tea annually
- Export Presence: Products are available in Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, the U.S., and Germany through retail and eCommerce partners
- eCommerce Growth: Online sales from their platform (https://kane8.jp) have grown steadily due to rising global demand for artisanal Japanese teas
Shipment and Trade Insights
According to international trade tracking data:
- Over 250 shipments recorded between 2019 and 2024, mostly green tea and matcha products
- Export volumes increase seasonally, especially during Japanese New Year and mid-autumn gift seasons
- Top international markets: United States, Germany, Singapore, Taiwan
Target Markets
Kanehachi’s clientele includes:
- Tea Boutiques and Specialty Stores: Stocking high-grade Japanese teas
- Restaurants and Cafés: Incorporating premium matcha and green tea drinks
- Corporate Gift Retailers: Offering seasonal and formal tea sets
- Health-Conscious Consumers: Attracted by the antioxidant and wellness benefits of green tea
Capabilities and Infrastructure
- Processing Facility: Located in Shizuoka, equipped for steaming, rolling, drying, and sorting
- Cold Storage: Maintains leaf freshness throughout the year
- OEM Services: Offers private-label solutions for global tea brands
- R&D Department: Focuses on cultivar development and flavor profiling
Certifications and Compliance
- JAS Organic Certified for select product lines
- ISO 22000 food safety management system
- Regular compliance with Japanese Food Sanitation Act and global export standards
- Provides full traceability documents and pesticide residue reports on request
Customer Reviews and Market Perception
- Highly rated by Japanese tea sommeliers for aroma intensity and umami depth
- Praised by international customers for “flavor purity,” “aesthetic packaging,” and “artisanal craftsmanship”
- Repeat business from buyers in Europe and Asia suggests high customer loyalty and product satisfaction
Recognition and Industry Participation
- Participated in trade shows such as FOODEX Japan, Biofach Germany, and Tea World Expo
- Featured in tea enthusiast blogs and YouTube channels promoting traditional Japanese green tea culture
- Collaborated with academic researchers in Shizuoka on tea polyphenol studies and sustainable cultivation techniques
Kanehachi Chaen Co., Ltd. exemplifies the harmony between tradition and modernity in Japanese tea production. Their unwavering commitment to quality, heritage, and sustainability continues to shape the perception of Japanese green tea around the world.
