May in Japan heralds the arrival of Ichibancha, the first tea harvest, making spring an exceptional time to discover Japanese tea culture. This season sees the production of premium green teas like matcha, sencha, gyokuro, and shincha, celebrated for their rich flavors and numerous health benefits.
The Japanese tea ceremony, chanoyu or chakai, takes on deeper significance in spring as it aligns with the theme of renewal. From Kyoto and Shizuoka to local tea farms, spring provides the perfect opportunity to engage with this revered tradition and appreciate the essence of Japanese tea.
Health Benefits of Japanese tea
Japanese green teas are more than just flavourful—they’re packed with health-enhancing properties. Discover the following health benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants: Japanese tea contains nutrients like catechins and vitamins that boost one's immune system, prevent chronic diseases, and slow aging.
- Stress relief: Its rich nutrients alleviate stress by managing blood pressure and relaxing the body's muscles.
- Dental health: This tea protects the teeth from acquiring acids that may lead to tooth decay.
- Supports weight loss: Green tea, as a natural diuretic and metabolism booster, can aid in healthy weight management.
Must-try seasonal teas in spring
Here are some of the must-try seasonal teas during spring, which will elevate your Japanese cultural experience to a new level.
- Matcha tea
- This finely ground powdered tea is a staple in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. Spring-harvested matcha offers the freshest and most vibrant taste.
- Sencha tea
- One of Japan's popular teas, this bitter tea with bitter umami notes is made with whole leaves infused in hot water during spring.
- Sakura tea
- Also known as sakurayu, this tea is made with cherry blossoms and is often enjoyed during hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and spring festivals. It offers a unique combination of sweet, salty, and floral notes.
- Amacha tea
- Deeply rooted in Japanese Buddhism, matcha is a sweet herbal tea with natural sweeteners rather than sugar. It's used during ceremonial celebrations of Buddha's birthday.
- Shincha tea
- Shincha, derived from the first sencha harvest during the Ichibancha season, is highly prized in Japan, particularly during springtime. Its flavor profile is more delicate and sweeter than that of sencha, making it a superior tea throughout the country.
- Genmaicha tea
- A unique green tea mixed with roasted brown rice, giving a rich, nutty taste.
Imagine waking up to fresh mountain air and the calming scent of green tea leaves. We can help you find a property that brings you closer to Japan’s timeless culture.
