With Japan's consumption of green tea in steady decline, a new breed of casual cafe specializing in the traditional brew aims to reverse the trend by introducing customers to a wide variety of brands, as well as unconventional serving methods.

Customers including visitors from overseas and young Japanese are able to learn about green tea and perhaps find a new favorite variety at such cafes.

Tokyo Saryo opened in January in the Sangenjaya district of the capital's Setagaya Ward. Part of the cafe's appeal is that customers can not only drink tea but also discuss it with staff.