1. 1844 Birth of Riemon Tsuji

    Born in Ujigō, Yamashiro Province (current Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture).

  2. 1860 Founding

    During the turbulent end of the Edo period, Uji’s tea gardens fell into decline after losing the Tokugawa Shogunate’s protection. Concerned about this, Riemon Tsuji (then 17 years old) purchased 3,000 m2 of tea fields and land, devoted himself to the tea industry, and establishing the Tsuji brand.

  3. Around 1871 The Rise of New Gyokuro “Daimon”

    Riemon Tsuji focused on a method using soft tencha buds, creating a tea called “gyokuro.” Although gyokuro was known, its color, aroma, and flavor were poor. By improving this, Riemon Tsuji increased the demand for Uji’s gyokuro. He named the new tea ‘Daimon,’ after a tea garden of the same name, and personally promoted its excellence, enhancing its reputation.

  4. 1889 Invention of the Tea Chest (Chabitsu)

    To improve tea transport and storage, Riemon Tsuji invented a tin-lined wooden box, replacing the traditional tea jars from the Tokugawa era. This invention revolutionized the tea industry, providing better moisture protection and ease of transport. It became widely used by tea merchants across Japan.

  5. 1897 Prosperity of Tsuji Store

    At 54 years old, Riemon Tsuji led a team of 40 employees, with distribution networks reaching from Tohoku to Hokkaido in the north and Kyushu in the south.

  6. 1927 Awarded the Green Ribbon Medal

    Riemon Tsuji was honored for his contributions to Uji tea.

  7. 1933 Statue of Riemon Tsuji Erected in Byodo-in Temple Grounds
  8. 1935 Third Generation: Riichi Tsuji Succeeds

  9. 1951 Riichi Tsuji Briefs Emperor Showa on Uji Tea Industry
  10. 1955 Fourth Generation: Toshio Tsuji Succeeds

    Riichi Tsuji was honored for his lifelong achievements.

  11. 1991 New Factory in Ujitawara Established

  12. 1998 Fifth Generation: Toshihiro Tsuji Succeeds

  13. 2016 Opening of Uji Main Store

    The Uji Main Store opened at the birthplace in Uji, offering customers a place to enjoy tea.

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