Yamamotoyama U.S.A., based in Pomona, California, is the American subsidiary of Yamamotoyama Co., Ltd., a legendary Japanese tea and seaweed company founded in 1690. With over 330 years of heritage, Yamamotoyama continues to bring the highest quality Japanese green teas and seaweed products to North American consumers, retailers, and foodservice professionals through its U.S. operations.
Company Overview
Established in the U.S. in 1975, Yamamotoyama U.S.A. has been instrumental in introducing traditional Japanese tea and nori to mainstream and specialty markets across North America. Leveraging centuries-old expertise in tea blending and seaweed processing, the company offers a range of authentic, sustainably sourced products, meeting the evolving needs of health-conscious and culinary-driven customers.
Product Categories
Yamamotoyama U.S.A. offers a comprehensive product portfolio divided into the following key categories:
Green Tea
- Loose Leaf and Bagged Teas:
- Sencha
- Gyokuro
- Hojicha
- Genmaicha
- Matcha
- Shincha (First Flush)
Flavored Green Tea
- Matcha Apple
- Matcha Genmai
- Green Tea with Mint
- Green Tea with Peach Ginger
- Green Tea with Strawberry
Organic Teas
- Organic Sencha
- Organic Genmaicha
- Organic Hojicha
- Organic Jasmine Green Tea
- Organic Oolong Tea
Seaweed Products
- Roasted Sushi Nori Seaweed (Gold, Silver, Special Reserve grades)
- Hand Roll Nori
- Rice Ball Wraps
- Teriyaki Seaweed Snacks
Soy Wraps
- Available in full and half sheets in multiple natural colors and flavors
Iced Tea Line
- Iced Matcha Green Tea (Sweetened and Unsweetened options)
These products are distributed through major grocery chains, Asian supermarkets, natural product retailers, and online platforms across the U.S. and globally.
Manufacturing & Sourcing
Yamamotoyama’s U.S. operations source premium-grade ingredients directly from Japan and integrate them into production lines that comply with strict food safety standards. Key highlights include:
- JAS and USDA Organic Certifications for organic product lines
- Non-GMO and Allergen-Free Statements
- Responsibly harvested seaweed from sustainable marine sources
- Proprietary pyramid tea bag technology for optimal steeping and flavor extraction
The company also employs nitrogen flushing and foil-wrapped packaging to preserve freshness and extend shelf life.
Distribution & Market Reach
Yamamotoyama products are available in:
- Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Sprouts, H-E-B, and other leading U.S. retailers
- Online marketplaces such as Amazon, Walmart, and their DTC site
- Foodservice channels, including sushi bars, Japanese restaurants, and catering services
Yamamotoyama U.S.A. serves a customer base exceeding 10 million tea drinkers and food enthusiasts annually, bolstered by strategic distribution partnerships and retail expansion.
Sustainability & Social Impact
The brand emphasizes sustainability in all aspects of its operation:
- Sustainable seaweed harvesting practices
- Eco-friendly packaging solutions
- Partnership with clean ocean and marine life conservation efforts
- Emphasis on organic farming techniques for its tea plantations
As part of its global CSR policy, Yamamotoyama also supports community wellness programs and educational initiatives in both Japan and the U.S.
Certifications & Compliance
- USDA Organic
- JAS Organic
- Kosher Certified
- HACCP and GMP compliant facilities
- Third-party lab tested for safety, heavy metals, and pesticides
Brand Legacy & Recognition
Yamamotoyama is recognized for:
- Being the oldest tea company in the world (established in 1690 in Nihonbashi, Tokyo)
- Consistent innovation including flavored green teas and modern tea formats
- Deep loyalty among Asian-American consumers and growing appeal in mainstream wellness and gourmet markets
Their U.S. operations continue to build on this legacy with localized innovation while preserving the traditions that have defined the Yamamotoyama brand for centuries.
Digital Engagement
Yamamotoyama maintains an active online presence through:
- Direct eCommerce via yamamotoyama.com
- Social channels: Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter
- Recipe content, brewing tips, and tea education articles
- Engagement with wellness influencers and chefs to promote usage versatility
Core Brand
- Yamamotoyama – representing traditional and modern tea culture with a trusted name in premium Japanese tea and seaweed
Yamamotoyama U.S.A. continues to lead the American market in authentic Japanese tea and nori products, maintaining a commitment to quality, sustainability, and cultural heritage unmatched in the industry.
