EJIMA is famous for their beautiful building that has been around since their early beginnings. Surviving battles and earthquakes, it is an important monumental building in Odawara, perfectly matching their long family history and dedication to authenthic Japanese teas and crafts.
EJIMA's unique history
The company history can be traced back to Mr. Ejima Gonbei, who established the business in 1661 and ran a salt business. Generations later, near the 18th century, the Ejima family decided to focus on Japanese paper used for screen doors and sliding panels. During this time, one of their merchants came across an exceptional tea product in Shizuoka, and the company decided to start dealing in tea.
This great insight has immensely grown their business and tea from Shizuoka tea is now even considered the best tea in Japan.
EJIMA's relationships to tea gardens in Shizuoka and Uji last since generations, which allows them to get high quality teas at attractive prices. Ken Ejima - the 17th(!) generation of the family business keep in close contact with the farmers.
In 1923 the Great Kanto Earthquake hit with the epicenter in Odawara, causing incredible damage to the building and business. With the help of local craftsmen, builders and volunteers EJIMA managed to recover and grow to be the culturally rich local business it is today.
EJIMA TIMELINE
