Pop Japan

The History of Tea in Japan can be traced back to 9th century. Envoys were sent to China to learn about the culture of tea and they went back carrying seeds to Japan that was said to be the origin of tea in the country.

Green Tea is the most popular and used tea in Japan. A number of name in this list came from Green Tea but it differs from the process of how it was made.

1. Ryokucha - It is translated as Green Tea which is made from Camellia Sinensis leaves that are steamed, dried but not fermented unlike the Black Tea and Oolong Tea. Ryokucha has a leafy taste.

2. Matcha - It is made up of fine ground green tea turned into powder. It is commonly used in Japanese tea ceremonies. There are also Matcha ice cream flavors, mochi and other confectioneries.

3. Konacha - It came from tea dust and small tea leaves. Konacha is classified as a low grade type of green tea but still has a strong flavor and taste. It is often paired with sushi and served in Japanese restaurants at a cheap price.

4. Hojicha - A classic type of green tea roasted under the charcoal in a high temperature making the tea reddish-brown in color. It contains low level of caffeine. Hojicha is sweeter in taste and has less astringent due to roasting.

5. Genmaicha - It is a combination of green tea mixed with roasted brown rice called Genmai. It is known as the “People’s Tea” as it is inexpensive and more available in the market. It is also referred as “Popcorn Tea” because the rice tends to pop out when roasting. Genmaicha has a grassy taste of green tea with the aroma of roasted brown rice.

6. Jasmine Cha - It is made up of green tea and Jasmine flower having a flowery scent and taste. Jasmine Cha is widely popular in Okinawa prefecture.

7. Kocha - Kocha means Red Tea in Japanese and Black Tea in English where its tea leaves are more oxidized than Oolong and is fermented for the longest time. It has a bitter and rich taste and a reddish-brown in color.

You can find these teas all over Japan from konbini to high-end restaurants. Hot, cold, bottled or in a cup, they’re all available within your reach. Whether you’re a tea lover or not, these beverages are a must try.