茶葉販売店 SABOE TOKYO

At SABOE TOKYO, a paper tea container performs three jobs: it holds the leaves, helps you brew them and becomes the cup. Made from plant-based materials, it is a neat expression of designer Shinichiro Ogata's thinking. Japanese tea, in his view, should have a place in ordinary life, not only on special occasions. Tea specialist Shinya Sakurai brings the knowledge of leaves, roasting and blending.

At their shop in Azabudai Hills, the T., Collection offers ten blends, moving from familiar green and roasted teas to combinations with fruit, grains and herbs. Regional teas and matcha sit alongside Japanese teapots and cups from Sゝゝ (Es), the design label associated with Ogata, and confectionery from HIGASHIYA. The selection is considered, but it is made to be used.

The stone counter towards the back is the place to start. Made from Isahaya stone from Nagasaki, it is where staff brew tea and explain what sets one variety apart from another. A freshly prepared cup is available to take away, and some visitors will find that choosing their next packet of leaves takes longer than drinking it.

This is a specialist shop, with takeaway drinks rather than a full tearoom or a formal tea ceremony. Try a blend, ask how to prepare it at home and have a look at the utensils. You need no prior knowledge of Japanese tea to get something out of a visit.