It's All About Tea — japanese tea

Ah, Sencha. Japan's most beloved tea. Found in nearly every household, every vending machine, and in every convenience store in Japan. Chances are you've had it too! As sencha is served in most Japanese restaurants and sushi bars. Often free of charge. 

Was it always this way? Nope. (Read more)

We couldn’t think of a better time to introduce this post to you. With the chilly weather outside, there’s nothing lovelier than the smell of roasted tea spreading throughout our lodgings. In a few simple steps, you can have your own roasted green tea — Hojicha at home, plus enjoy the wonderful scent of the tea. (Read more)

In Japan, gyokuro is synonymous with the best tea. It is the tea that is reserved for special occasions or for serving guests. While sencha is enjoyed daily at home or in numerous Japanese eateries, gyokuro is undoubtedly more prized. One thing is true — while almost every single person in Japan has tried sencha (even if just from vending machines), gyokuro is more of a tea for enthusiasts or connoisseurs. (Read more)

Japanese black tea is referred to as koucha in Japan. Like hong cha, koucha translates as red tea and is red tea and not black tea. Wakoucha refers specifically to black tea produced in Japan. "Wa" referring to Japan in this context. The properties of Japanese black tea are the same as those of hong cha — it is a fully oxidized tea made from the leaves of camellia sinensis.

In a country that predominantly drinks green tea, black tea production has always taken up a tiny part of the Japanese tea production industry. (Read more) 

Unlike many Chinese teas that can generally withstand harsher conditions, Japanese teas are well known for their fine qualities. Using water that is too hot can ruin the entire brew. Many people don't take into account how the quality of the water itself can also harshen the final taste of Japanese tea. (Read more)