Unique Aspects of Japanese Green Tea

What makes Japanese green tea unique? Which prefecture is known for the most famous green tea? Which variety of green tea is the rarest in Hong Kong? In this article, we will explore various aspects of Japanese green tea, including its different types and origins.

Shizuoka's Green Tea: A Gastronomic Gem from Japan

Green tea is well-known for its healthy nature because it is rich in catechins and is unfermented, which means the tea has a high concentration of antioxidants.

Green tea has a light green to yellow tone of colour after being steeped in hot water. Upon sipping, it will exude a sweet grassy fragrance, like nectar after rain.

Japanese Green Tea is quite different compared to Chinese Green Tea. Difference rely on tea making process, Japanese style majorly focus on long-period of “tea-steaming” technique to process tea, and thus will enhance the tea flavour and healthy benefits.

Shizuoka in Japan is a major attraction for tea enthusiasts because it covers 40% of Japan's tea plantation area and sales. Shizuoka's unique geographical location, with mountains and seas, gives it a distinct advantage in tea production. Their tea-making techniques are among the best in the world, especially for Sencha. While Sencha can be modified into a diverse range of tea types, such as Hojicha, Genmaicha, Matcha Genmaicha, and Kukicha.

Shizuoka's tea are all came from the same tea farm directly from Shizuoka for consistency, and better quality control purposes. Uji tea, on the other hand, uses tea leaves from multiple prefectures, which can make it difficult for quality control.

The Charm of Japan' Tea Farms

Tea gardens in Shizuoka, known for their high altitude, ensure that their lands are free from chemicals like pesticides and artificial fertilizers for at least three years. They do not contain genetically modified organisms and take measures to prevent contamination from neighboring farms.

These gardens maintain detailed records of their farming operations and undergo annual audits and inspections.

High-quality sencha, which produces a refreshing and less bitter pure Japanese green tea, possesses the following characteristics:

- The tea leaves are thick and of moderate size.

- The color of the tea leaves is vibrant green.

- The tea leaves exhibit uniformity in size.

Embark on a Journey to Shizuoka, Japan with these 5 Green Tea Varieties

Shizuoka Sencha | Slow living | Tea-riffic Tins | 50g

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Shizuoka Sencha | Slow living | Tea-riffic Tins | 50g

HK$60.00

Shizuoka Sencha

Shizuoka Sencha shares a light-steamed characteristic. It is harvested between April and early May. Its natural vegetal flavour is brought out using steaming method, resulting in a refreshing and well-rounded taste.

Shizuoka Sencha is rich in "catechins," which have antibacterial and cholesterol-lowering effects. As one of the most popular types of green tea in Japan, Sencha accounts for over 70% of the country's total green tea production.

Shizuoka Sencha is particularly favoured in Hong Kong's green tea market. Our Sencha has a superior taste compared to other grades.

Stay Healthy with Sencha!

Shizuoka Hojicha | Slow living | Tea-riffic Tins | 20g

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Shizuoka Hojicha | Slow living | Tea-riffic Tins | 20g

HK$60.00

Shizuoka Hojicha

Shizuoka Hojicha is a Japanese roasted green tea that is brown due to the high-temperature roasting process. As the moisture decreases over time, the flavour of the tea becomes smoky and has a caramelized aroma. Making it a popular choice for after-dinner relaxation.

Hojicha requires high-temperature roasting process, and thus also reduces the caffeine content, making it a great choice for children and the elderly who are sensitive to caffeine. It can help to relax the mind and relieve tension.

Hojicha is a popular choice for Omakase, and is also used to make desserts and lattes because of its refreshing taste, which pairs well with sushi and sashimi.

Stay Relaxed with Hojicha!

Genmaicha | Slow living | Tea-riffic Tins | 50g

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Genmaicha | Slow living | Tea-riffic Tins | 50g

HK$60.00

Shizuoka Genmaicha

Legend has it that an elderly couple faced dwindling tea leaves in their home. Resourcefully, they decided to roast and blend leftover rice cakes with green tea, resulting in a surprisingly delicious concoction. This serendipitous creation spread far and wide, undergoing refinement over time to become the beloved Genmaicha we enjoy today.

With its distinctive flavour profile and added skincare benefits from the inclusion of matcha, it has captured the hearts of tea enthusiasts.

Known for its ability to aid in detoxification and weight loss, promote healthy blood circulation, and support digestive health.

Stay Fit with Genmaicha!

Shizuoka Kukicha | Slow living | Tea-riffic Tins | 50g

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Shizuoka Kukicha | Slow living | Tea-riffic Tins | 50g

HK$90.00

Shizuoka Kukicha

Experience the essence of "Umami" with a subtle yet invigorating finish. Shizuoka Kukicha, a premium Japanese green tea crafted from the tea plant's stems, embodies exceptional quality. Kukicha's unique flavor profile stems from its incorporation of the tea plant's stems.

Tea plant's stems transport vital plant nutrients to the leaves, Kukicha becomes a nutrient-rich infusion, abundant in amino acids. These amino acids are crucial for the body's synthesis of proteins and must be obtained through dietary sources.

Insufficient intake of amino acids can result in fatigue, and decreased reaction times. Shizuoka Kukicha is rare in HK, and we take pride in offering this delectable tea to you.

Taste "Umami" with Kukicha!

Matcha Genmaicha | Slow living | Tea-riffic Tins | 50g

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Matcha Genmaicha | Slow living | Tea-riffic Tins | 50g

HK$60.00

Matcha Genmaicha

Shizuoka Matcha Genmaicha, a delightful blend of roasted brown rice green tea and high-quality Matcha, originates from Shizuoka and offers a unique and flavorful experience.

When brewed, this tea unveils a distinct flavor profile. The initial sip delights with the rich and earthy taste of Matcha, followed by the nutty and fragrant aroma of Genmaicha upon the second sip.

Each cup of Matcha Genmaicha presents a delightful and aromatic journey, complemented by the subtle and elegant taste of Sencha green tea, adding another layer of flavor to this exquisite tea.

Begin Journey with Matcha Genmaicha!