Brand Story
Timeless Innovation.
Kagoshima, located at the southernmost tip of mainland Japan, has long been a hub for international exchange, serving as a gateway to foreign cultures. With numerous opportunities to learn and adopt advanced techniques and new cultural practices, Kagoshima has always embraced cutting-edge innovations. The Meiji-era industrial revolution heritage, now a World Heritage Site, is a testament to this legacy.
Similarly, the world of tea is steeped in history. Once cherished as a luxury item, tea was even used as currency in ancient times. Kagoshima, with its vast natural resources and favorable climate, excels in tea production, ranking among Japan’s top producers. This success is owed to generations of dedicated tea farmers who have carefully cultivated tea leaves over time.
In Kagoshima, a place that has continuously embraced new ideas, the tea industry carries forward a rich legacy. It embodies a culture that feels both timeless and innovative, blending the old and the new in harmonious succession.
The character “Sen” in "Ikeda Senchado" signifies both the discerning eye of a tea master in selecting the finest teas and the commitment to continually exploring the balance between tradition and innovation. We pour our hearts into crafting teas that bring a fresh essence to familiar favorites.
The Story Behind Our Logo and Illustrations
Ikeda Senchado is a brand dedicated to bringing the joy of tea to life by learning from tradition and reinterpreting it in new ways.
By encapsulating the essence of Ikeda Seicha—Buying, Blending, and Roasting—the logo and naming were designed to visually represent the foresight and expertise of a seasoned tea connoisseur, which lies at the heart of the brand.
Inspired by the efforts and philosophy of Kenta Ikeda, a 10th-Dan Tea Master, we realized that Kagoshima has always been at the forefront of innovation. The symbolic logo imagines a tea master in Tenmonkan long ago, delighting in their original blend under the starry skies. It represents a forward-looking, ever-evolving Ikeda Senchado.
[ Designer, Aobato Principal ] Seiichi Maezaki
“The Role of the Seed”
Capturing emotions yet to be expressed, establishing a concept, and bringing forth the ideal vision through design—this is how we sow the seeds of awareness and foster meaningful connections.