On October 23, 2025, the University of Shizuoka, in collaboration with Mae Fah Luang University, successfully hosted the international seminar titled "Thai–Japan Tea Alliance for a Sustainable Future" This event was part of the World O-Cha Festival 2025 and took place at the GRANSHIP Convention and Arts Center, in Shizuoka City, Japan.
The seminar brought together approximately 40 participants, including experts, researchers, and industry leaders from both Japan and Thailand. Its main objectives were to promote the tea cultures of Japan and Thailand, strengthen academic and industry collaboration, and enhance global recognition of the tea businesses in both countries.
The program began with welcoming remarks from Prof. Dr. Kimiko Kobayashi, Vice President of the University of Shizuoka. Following this, six speakers addressed various topics related to tea, including global trends, scientific perspectives on health, destination branding, gastronomy, and tourism. The seminar concluded with a Thai Premium Tea Showcase Workshop, where distinguished Thai tea entrepreneurs provided participants with the opportunity to sample premium Thai teas. Featured offerings included coconut matcha from Team Lab Co., Ltd., heritage black tea from Mae Hang Community Enterprises, and tea from Wang Put Tan.
The seminar brought together approximately 40 participants, including experts, researchers, and industry leaders from both Japan and Thailand. Its main objectives were to promote the tea cultures of Japan and Thailand, strengthen academic and industry collaboration, and enhance global recognition of the tea businesses in both countries.
The program began with welcoming remarks from Prof. Dr. Kimiko Kobayashi, Vice President of the University of Shizuoka. Following this, six speakers addressed various topics related to tea, including global trends, scientific perspectives on health, destination branding, gastronomy, and tourism. The seminar concluded with a Thai Premium Tea Showcase Workshop, where distinguished Thai tea entrepreneurs provided participants with the opportunity to sample premium Thai teas. Featured offerings included coconut matcha from Team Lab Co., Ltd., heritage black tea from Mae Hang Community Enterprises, and tea from Wang Put Tan.
Welcoming remarks by Prof. Dr. Kimiko Kobayashi, Vice President of the University of Shizuoka
The atmosphere of the seminar
The presentation on gastronomy and tea tourism by Associate Prof. Dr. Amnaj Khaokhrueamuang from the University of Shizuoka
Thai Tea Entrepreneurs Alongside Guest Speakers
(12/1/2025)