Promoting Iced Tea as a summer beverage

Today, and June 10th annually, is Iced Tea Day アイスティーの日 in Japan. It was established by the Japan Tea Association, headquartered in Tokyo, to promote iced tea culture and encourage more people to enjoy tea in refreshing, chilled forms. The date follows the American “National Iced Tea Day,” which is also celebrated on June 10th.

The day highlights the history of iced tea, which became popular after being served at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, where a British tea merchant chilled unsold hot tea during a heatwave. By adopting the same date, Japan aims to connect with global tea culture while revitalizing domestic interest in iced tea. The anniversary was officially registered in 2025, reflecting the association’s ongoing efforts to expand tea education and appreciation.

Across Japan, some cafés and tea shops mark the day by offering limited‑edition iced teas or small promotional gifts. The Japan Tea Association also conducts seminars, cultural events, and training programs for tea instructors and advisors. Iced Tea Day encourages people to rediscover the pleasure of well‑brewed iced tea, made by preparing a strong hot tea and rapidly cooling it over ice, and to enjoy it as part of Japan’s summer beverage traditions.

Enjoying an iced tea at Crescent Cafe, with a view of "Little Edo", Kawagoe