A Swiss national with a background in law and years of experience with international export.

I used to be more of a coffee than a tea person. Take me to Italy and you will find me at the nearest café for my espresso shot!

However, in my daily life, things have changed when I discovered the pleasure of authentic Japanese green tea. It's not just about the amazing balance of delicate and complex fragrances, or the health benefits of green tea.

I have fallen in love with the steady yet powerful feeling of increased focus and constant energy that comes with each single cup. Whether I am working, chilling out with friends or practicing aikido, I can't do without green tea anymore!

American national with MA in Japanese Cultural studies, focusing on US client accounts

I joined Ikkyu quite recently, but I have lived in Japan for the past decade. From dancing Yosakoi at festivals in Toyama to practicing Aikido at the dojo in Fukuoka, I am a passionate learner of all things Japan—including tea.

Through research on Japanese tea families, tea ceremony, and experience with a global clientele in my previous work, I’m excited to blend the rich history of tea enjoyment with the everyday needs of modern matcha enthusiasts stateside.

Additionally, I’m interested in tying together the strong tradition of Kyushu pottery, visible in Karatsu and Arita ware, with its equally splendid tea. To me, Kyushu tea is summed up as luxury with a lineage—a lineage that the Ikkyu team is devoted to preserving and sharing with the world

An Italian and Swiss national who speaks French, Italian, English, German and a little Japanese, Aldo does the majority of photography and design for all IKKYU products.

I started drinking green tea back in Switzerland more than 12 years ago as a way to relax. I enjoy the preparing time of a good matcha while listening old records.

Thanks to my deep interest and love of green tea, I have been able to visit all the main production areas on Kyushu island. It has been a privilege to talk and work directly with city and government officials, and most importantly, build strong connections with the many producers and their families.

It took several years to build a network covering all of Kyushu. I have been blessed by the richness of encounters, friendship and discoveries of the Green Tea universe.