Best Shade-Grown Green Tea of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Shade-grown green tea, also known as matcha, is a high-quality tea that is grown in the shade to increase chlorophyll production, resulting in a vibrant green color and rich flavor. The shade also slows down the growth of the tea leaves, allowing them to develop a more complex taste profile. Shade-grown green tea is known for its health benefits, including high levels of antioxidants and amino acids that can boost metabolism and promote relaxation. It is a popular choice among tea enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers alike, and can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of recipes.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Ocha & Co. Organic Kabusecha Green Tea Cover #TOP 1
Ocha & Co. Organic Kabusecha Green Tea
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Otsuka Green Tea - Organic Gyokuro Cover #TOP 2
Otsuka Green Tea - Organic Gyokuro
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Greenhilltea Gyokuro Green Tea - 4 OZ Cover #TOP 3
Greenhilltea Gyokuro Green Tea - 4 OZ
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Shade-Grown Green Tea

#TOP 1

Ocha & Co. Organic Kabusecha Green Tea

Ocha & Co.
Organic Kabusecha
Ocha & Co. Organic Kabusecha Green Tea Cover
Ocha & Co. Organic Kabusecha – Japanese Loose Leaf Green Tea - Umami - Shade Grown Green Tea – Milder and Sweeter than Loose Leaf Sencha, 100g/3.5oz.

Ocha & Co. Organic Kabusecha Green Tea is shade-grown green tea that is smoother and sweeter than regular organic Japanese Sencha green teas, with a pleasing light green color. The tea plants are grown in natural shade for 10 days to increase the amino acid content of the green tea leaves, resulting in a slightly sweet taste. This organic green tea is grown in an award-winning mountainous plantation in Shizuoka, with ideal climatic conditions for organic Japanese tea cultivation. The tea is vacuum-sealed to retain optimal freshness and ordered weekly to ensure a long shelf-life. Ocha & Co. works with top blenders in the country to produce the finest organic green and black teas, offering a variety of Japanese teas for different tastes, moods, or occasions.

What We Like
Shade-grown
Slightly sweet
Organic
Freshness retention
High-quality blending
#TOP 2

Otsuka Green Tea - Organic Gyokuro

Otsuka Green Tea - Organic Gyokuro Cover
Otsuka Green Tea Co - Organic Gyokuro, Japanese Shade Grown Green Tea 50g - Imperial Loose Leaf Green Tea from kakegawa city shizuoka prefecture japan

Otsuka Green Tea Gyokuro is a premium shade-grown Japanese green tea that offers an irresistible charm with its high concentration of rich umami flavor. Unlike sencha, which is grown under full sun, Gyokuro is shielded from the sun for 20 days, resulting in long perfectly shaped needles when rolled. The leaves of Gyokuro are a deeper green than those of sencha due to the chlorophyll produced as they try to photosynthesize efficiently in the shade. With its authentic Japanese packaging, this tea is not only visually appealing but also a perfect choice for tea connoisseurs. In addition to its exquisite taste, Gyokuro is also rich in antioxidants and contains amino acids and other beneficial compounds that can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. By choosing Otsuka Green Tea Gyokuro, you are not only enjoying a delightful tea experience but also supporting a small business and making a positive impact on the environment and communities.

What We Like
Premium quality
Authentic Japanese packaging
Rich in antioxidants
#TOP 3

Greenhilltea Gyokuro Green Tea - 4 OZ

Green Tea
4 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Greenhilltea Gyokuro Green Tea - 4 OZ Cover
Greenhilltea Premium Gyokuro Japanese Green Tea finest green tea loose leave tea - 4 OZ Tea Bag.

Greenhilltea Gyokuro Tea is a premium Japanese green tea known for its rich flavor and unique characteristics. This tea is grown in the shade, which enhances its sweet taste and gives it a vibrant green color. You’ll appreciate its elegant aroma, making each cup an enjoyable experience. With low caffeine levels and no additives, this tea is a healthy choice for your daily routine. Simply brew one teaspoon in hot water, and in just a few minutes, you can savor a delightful cup that promotes wellness and relaxation.

What We Like
Rich flavor
Shade-grown for sweetness
Low caffeine content
No additives

Ujido Japanese Matcha Green Tea Powder - Ceremonial Blend

1027830
2 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Ujido Japanese Matcha Green Tea Powder - Ceremonial Blend Cover
Ujido The Path of Zen Japanese Matcha Green Tea Powder Ceremonial Blend (2 oz)

Ujido Matcha Powder is a Japanese culinary grade tea powder sourced and packed in Uji, Japan. It is supplied from Tune-emon Takizo's family farm where Matcha has been produced for over 180 years. Grown under shade, hand-picked, and stone-ground, this Matcha powder is great for cooking and drinking. Its high antioxidant properties can help with natural energy, boost metabolism, and supply L-Theanine, which can help restore your body's well-being and balance. The rich and delicate flavor of Ujido Matcha Powder comes from the Chlorophyll, natural amino acids, Catechin, EGCg, and has a smooth, mellow, and soothing taste. It can fortify and strengthen your immune system, allowing you to detox. If you're not satisfied, Ujido provides a refund. For continued freshness, refrigerate after opening.

What We Like
Japanese heritage
Culinary grade
High antioxidant
Rich and delicate flavor
Guaranteed satisfaction
#TOP 5

Wild Matcha Green Tea Powder

4 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Wild Matcha Green Tea Powder Cover
Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder, Ceremonial Grade, Authentic Japanese Matcha Grown In Japan, JAS Certified Organic (4 oz)

Introducing Wild Matcha Powder, an authentic Japanese matcha made from high-quality shade-grown green tea leaves. This ceremonial grade matcha is sourced from small family farmers who have been growing matcha for generations in a climate renowned for producing the best matcha in the world. By choosing Wild Matcha Powder, you are opting for the original and highest quality matcha available. The small batch production ensures premium ingredients that are beneficial for your body. Plus, with the Wild guarantee, you can enjoy a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Experience the rich flavor and numerous health benefits of Wild Matcha Powder today!

What We Like
Authentic Japanese matcha
Shade-grown and stone ground
Small batch production
#TOP 6

Tealyra Handmade Premium 1st Flush Gyokuro Green Tea

Tealyra Handmade Premium 1st Flush Gyokuro Green Tea Cover
Tealyra - Handmade Premium First Flush - Gyokuro Green Tea - Grown in Yame Japan - Loose Leaf Tea - Caffeine Medium - 100g (3.5-ounce)

Tealyra's Handmade Premium 1st Flush Gyokuro Green Tea is a luxurious loose tea that is organically grown in Yame, Japan. It is unflavored, contains no fillers, and is rich in antioxidants. Yame Gyokuro Grade 1 is the highest quality shade grown Gyokuro from Yame, Japan, producing a uniquely sweet and delicate flavor with no astringency. Studies have shown that green tea is beneficial for lowering bad cholesterol and burning fat in the body.

What We Like
Organically grown in Yame, Japan
Uniquely sweet and delicate flavor with no astringency
Rich in antioxidants
#TOP 7

Ocha & Co. Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder

Ocha & Co.
Organic Matcha
Ocha & Co. Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder Cover
Ocha & Co. Japanese Tea - Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder - Traditional Stone Milled Japanese Matcha, 100g/3.5oz.

Ocha & Co.'s Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder is made from 100% natural, shade-grown leaves that are steamed to seal in the goodness and then turned into Matcha powder using a traditional grindstone. The tea has a smooth and balanced taste, low in bitterness, and the color is rich and vibrant. This organic matcha green tea powder is grown in some of the highest plantations in Japan, ensuring the perfect environment for organic Japanese tea cultivation. The tea is ordered weekly in small batches to ensure a long shelf-life, and comes in a zip-sealed packet to retain the freshness.

What We Like
100% natural, shade-grown leaves
Smooth and balanced flavor
Fresh and organic
#TOP 8

Japan's Finest Organic Nishio Matcha

にほんのごはん
Japan's Finest Organic Nishio Matcha Cover
Japan’s Finest 100% Organic Nishio Ceremonial Grade Matcha Green Tea Powder (有機抹茶) – Shade-Grown First Flush, Rich in Catechins, Deep Green Color, Intense Umami and Full-Bodied Flavor, Exquisite Aroma, Ideal for Cooking and Baking, USDA & JAS Certified, Made in Japan (60g / 2.12oz)

Nihon NO GOHAN Matcha is a premium ceremonial grade green tea powder sourced from Nishio, Japan. It’s made from first flush tea leaves that are shade-grown, giving it a rich green color and full-bodied flavor. This matcha is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, thanks to its high levels of catechins and vitamins. You can enjoy its exquisite aroma while preparing traditional matcha tea or using it in various recipes, from lattes to pastries. With USDA and JAS organic certifications, you can trust that you’re getting a pure product free from harmful chemicals.

What We Like
Rich in antioxidants
Versatile culinary uses
Sourced from premium region
Organic certifications
#TOP 9

MEGAPLANTS Matcha Magic

MEGAPLANTS Matcha Magic Cover
MEGAPLANTS Matcha Magic (50 Servings) | Superfood 5 Mushroom Powder Blend for Focus, Clarity & Energy | USDA Organic | Japanese Ceremonial Grade Matcha | Shade Grown

MEGAPLANTS Matcha Magic is a powerful superfood powder blend that combines 5 organic mushrooms with Japanese ceremonial grade matcha. This blend is designed to enhance focus, mental clarity, and energy. The 5 mushrooms in Matcha Magic have been carefully selected for their ability to improve energy, mood, and vitality. The blend includes adaptogens like reishi, which supports stress response and recovery, and lion's mane, known for its memory and focus-boosting properties. Cordyceps provides energy and endurance, while chaga and turkey tail offer antioxidant benefits and immune support. Made from 100% natural and organic ingredients, Matcha Magic is vegan, plant-based, and free from artificial sweeteners or fillers. With 50 servings per pouch, it is a convenient and easy way to enjoy the rich taste and nutritional benefits of matcha and functional mushrooms.

What We Like
Powerful superfood blend
Enhances focus and energy
100% natural and organic ingredients
#TOP 10

Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend

O4-JD03-P0NA
Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend Cover
Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend – Authentic Japanese First Harvest Ceremonial Grade Matcha Green Tea Powder from Uji, Kyoto (40g / 1.4oz)

Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend is an authentic Japanese First Harvest Ceremonial Grade Matcha Green Tea Powder from Uji, Kyoto. It is made from shade grown, First Harvest tea leaves from Uji Kyoto, and is ground into powder right before it leaves Japan for the USA. This matcha is smooth, creamy and versatile, making it ideal for matcha beginners. It provides a steady boost of energy for up to 6 hours, and is a healthy source of antioxidants. Naoki Matcha provides full guidance through directions for use, recipes and tips for enjoying it.

What We Like
Deep flavor
Freshness
Great taste
Health benefits
Energetic boost
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our shade-grown green tea research, we found 24 shade-grown green tea products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 45,431 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shade-grown green tea list. We found that most customers choose shade-grown green tea with an average price of $21.98.

The shade-grown green tea are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shade-grown green tea, including Ocha & Co., Otsuka Green Tea Co, Greenhilltea, Ujido The Path of Zen, Wild Foods. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 70 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!