Japanese tea is not merely just a beverage but the emblem and heart of Japanese culture, often known for its rich flavours and tons of health benefits. Tracing its roots back over a millennium, Buddhist monks introduced tea to Japan from China, which was quickly popularised amongst the Japanese elites of the time. Court nobility to the Samurai class was deeply enamoured by the aromatics and flavours of these delicious leaves that subsequently led to the birth of some of the most beautifully illustrious traditions known as “tea ceremonies.”
Now, bringing it back to the modern age, we’re going to use this opportunity to give you all a rundown on some of the most exquisite brews you’ll be able to find in everyday Japan! So, kick back, relax, and join us on our adventure with… Tea!
Matcha in field – Photo Credit: Jessica Iragne @Arigato Travel
Matcha
Starting off strong is none other than Matcha! A staple piece in Japanese tea culture, deeply rooted in everyday brews and confectionery! Matcha is a finely ground powdered tea, most notable for its richness in colour and hue as well as its divine sweet and bitter flavour. Besides contributing a role in traditional tea ceremonies, Matcha has also become a predominant flavouring of choice in everyday confectioneries such as ice creams, sweets, chocolates, and more! Definitely one of the more versatile blends!
Hojicha tea – Photo Credit: Hanasaki
Hojicha
Another staple in the Japanese tea catalogue, Hojicha is a seemingly delicious choice but has a slightly different approach in terms of how it is made. By roasting bancha leaves, it gives us a light golden appearance in contrast to the generally green colour we’re all used to seeing. Due to the roasting process of the leaves, the caffeine levels also deplete, which makes Hojicha an excellent choice for relaxation, and its soothing properties are definitely a recommended choice for the young and elderly!
Sencha – Photo Credit: Senchado Tokyo
Sencha
Believe it or not, Sencha is actually the most common and often used leaf in everyday Japan. You’ll often find Sencha to be the blend that the majority of restaurants and households tend to serve! In comparison to Matcha, where you’d have to whisk the finely ground powder, Sencha actually takes a more relaxed approach with an easy brew in hot water. Due to its myriad of health benefits in promoting heart health, lowering cholesterol, etc., we’d definitely suggest Sencha to be a top of the bucket list tea for all tea connoisseurs!
Mugicha – Photo Credit: Noriko
Mugicha
Embraced for its refreshing qualities, Mugicha is definitely a must during Japanese summers! Mugicha, made from roasted barley infused in water, is a beverage that can be enjoyed both hot and cold! Another common choice in households, it boasts a caffeine-free, rich, nutty, and slightly sweet flavour, and not to mention the plethora of health benefits that come from it too! We’re talking about digestive aid, enhancement of the immune system, and so forth!
Genmaicha – Photo Credit: Beantown Tea Spieces
Genmaicha
The best of both worlds, Genmaicha is a combination of green tea and roasted brown rice! Very unique, right? The toasted rice infuses the tea with a nutty flavour, balancing the grassy notes of the green tea. Genmaicha’s subtle taste and low caffeine content makes it another popular choice for everyday sipping and an excellent choice by all tea enthusiasts!
Bancha tea and leaves – Photo Credit: teegschwendner
Bancha
How can we forget about Bancha in the talks of tea?! Made from the matured leaves of the tea plant, Bancha offers a more down-to-earth experience, literally earth, as it gives off a more robust, earthy flavour that is sure to delight your palate! This is definitely one of the least expensive choices of tea, which makes it a common choice amongst avid drinkers! But don’t let that fool you into thinking less of Bancha!
Wakocha leaves and teapot – Photo Credit: freepik
Wakocha
Wakocha, or Japanese black tea, is an interesting blend of Japanese and Western tea traditions. Unlike its green tea counterparts, Wakocha undergoes oxidation, resulting in its luscious dark colour. Beyond its rich flavour, Wakocha also offers health benefits often found in black tea, being high in antioxidants. It’s bound to be a choice that would keep your heart and tummy a little happier!
Beautiful Japanese Tea Set – Photo Credit: Roman Odintsov
A Toast to Japanese Tea-ppreciation!
As we delved into the world of Japanese teas, we found that each blend offers a unique story, tradition, craftsmanship, and flavour! Yet, this exploration is just the beginning. Japan offers a vast catalogue of unique tea blends and experiences waiting to be discovered! We sincerely encourage everyone to embark on their very own tea adventures! Come visit Japan and taste the magic for yourself!
Featured Photo Credit: Elif Tekkaya
If you want to try some of these teas and have an amazing experience doing so, come join our Matcha Kyoto Green Tea Tour.
