#4138

Authentic Ceylon Tea in Yokohama, Japan

Sinha Ceylon Tea House

Iced Masala chai

Leaf teas for sale

One of the many things I love about Yokohama is its number of fantastic cafes. a particularly unique one I enjoy going to is Sinha Ceylon Tea House, located near Bashamichi Station, who specializes in leaf teas imported from several regions in Sri Lanka.

They offer over thirty varieties of hot and iced teas from ¥550-¥750, as well as coffee (¥550) and Chinese oolong tea sets (¥700). In addition to straight black tea, you can also choose from spiced and herb teas. I usually ask for their iced Masala chai (¥550), which is a delicious way to cool off from the day’s searing temperatures. The drinks are beautifully presented and can arrive in simple tea vessels or elegant tray platters, depending on what you order.

Sinha also serves an impressive selection of food. From curries to hot sandwiches, cakes and scones, you can enjoy your beverage with a hearty meal. Their main lunch set goes for ¥800, but you can spend as little as ¥450 or as much as ¥1300 depending on how hungry you are. Mind you, if you go to eat, get there before the lunch crowd does. Sinha is a popular noontime destination, especially with local female office workers.

Even with two floors and table seating, the shop is small (another reason to get there as soon as you can), but its size suits its exotic interior decor, which will quickly make you forget you’re in Japan and are instead hidden away at some cozy tropical resort. And when you’re through and ready to head back to reality, you can purchase take away tea and cake items as well as other Ceylon-related souvenirs.

If you're in the area and wish to take a break from your day, Sinha Ceylon Tea House is a wonderful place to do just that!