🗾Japan: Life&Spirit#7│Discover 7 Must-Try Japanese Teas

🍵 Lead-In: A Taste of Japan Beyond Green Tea

When you think of Japanese tea, green tea probably comes to mind first. But Japan’s tea culture goes far beyond just one type. From roasted leaves to nutty beans and citrus infusions, each variety offers a unique flavor—and a glimpse into daily Japanese life.

Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan, learning the language, or simply curious about new tastes, these seven traditional Japanese teas offer an easy and enjoyable way to experience the spirit of Japan from anywhere in the world.

Some are refreshing, some relaxing, and all are deeply connected to Japanese culture and wellness.

Let’s explore the world of Japanese teas—one soothing sip at a time.

🍃 1. Green Tea – The Classic Foundation

① What Is Green Tea?

Green tea—called “ryokucha” in Japanese—is the most widely consumed tea in Japan. It’s not just popular; it’s familiar, comforting, and often the very first tea people grow up drinking.

Made from unfermented tea leaves that are steamed, rolled, and dried, green tea keeps its natural color and delicate aroma. The result is a clean, refreshing drink that’s enjoyed all year round.

Japan has many famous tea-growing regions, including Shizuoka, Uji in Kyoto, and Kagoshima. Each region has its own style and flavor. In spring, people look forward to shincha, or “new tea,” made from the first harvest of the season. It’s considered the freshest and most delicate form of green tea.

② What Does It Taste Like?

Green tea has a fresh, slightly grassy flavor, but the taste can vary depending on the type and how it’s made:

• Sencha is bright and balanced.
• Genmaicha is mixed with roasted rice, giving it a toasty, nutty flavor.
• Gyokuro is shaded before harvest, resulting in a deep umami taste with little bitterness.

Most Japanese people drink green tea without sugar, letting its natural bitterness and aroma shine。When I brought green tea as a gift to my American host family, my host mom reached for the sugar—but I gently told her that in Japan, we usually drink it plain. Of course, everyone’s free to enjoy tea however they like, but adding sugar is not the traditional way.

③ Health Benefits

Green tea is rich in antioxidants, especially catechins, which are believed to:

• Boost metabolism
• Support heart health
• Improve mental clarity
• Strengthen the immune system

It also contains a moderate amount of caffeine, making it a gentle pick-me-up. Some people, myself included, find that green tea helps settle the stomach, especially after a heavy meal or even when feeling carsick.

④ Best Ways to Enjoy It

Green tea is often served with meals in Japan, as it pairs naturally with rice and other savory dishes. You’ll also see it at restaurants, offices, and even convenience stores.

To brew it well, don’t use boiling water—70–80°C (158–176°F) is ideal to bring out the flavor without bitterness.

You can enjoy it hot or cold. In summer, cold-brewed green tea is refreshing and light. Look for Japanese green tea in tea bags, loose-leaf tins, or powder form at your local supermarket or Asian grocery store.

If you’re new to green tea, start with sencha or genmaicha—they’re both easy to drink and full of flavor.

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🗣️Comment from a green tea fan:
“I never thought of green tea as a ‘health drink’—for me, it’s the one tea that always makes me feel better, whether I’m tired, sick, or just need a break.”

🔥 2. Hojicha – The Toasted Comfort

① What Is Hojicha?

Hojicha is a type of Japanese green tea—but unlike others, it’s roasted over high heat, which gives it a distinct brown color and deep, nutty aroma. Though it begins as green tea (usually bancha or sencha), the roasting process removes bitterness and transforms the flavor.

It was first created in Kyoto around the 1920s as a way to use leftover tea leaves. Today, hojicha is enjoyed all over Japan in homes, cafes, and even trendy tea lattes. It’s a casual and cozy favorite, often chosen when you want something gentle and warm.

② What Does It Taste Like?

Hojicha has a toasty, smoky flavor that’s soft and soothing. It lacks the grassy or bitter notes of green tea, making it especially appealing to people who find regular green tea too strong.

Its roasted character makes it feel more like a relaxing treat than a caffeine jolt. The scent alone—warm, slightly sweet, and nutty—is enough to calm the senses. I personally love the smell of hojicha—it feels like stepping into a quiet, old-fashioned tea shop on a rainy day.

③ Health Benefits

Although it’s roasted, hojicha still offers various wellness perks, including:

• Low caffeine (perfect for evenings or children)
• Easy on the stomach
• Rich in antioxidants
• May support digestion and reduce stress

Because of its mildness, many people choose hojicha during recovery from illness, or simply when they want a non-stimulating, comforting drink.

④ Best Ways to Enjoy It

Unlike delicate green teas, hojicha is brewed with boiling water, making it easy to prepare. A typical cup steeps in just 30–60 seconds, and it’s forgiving—even if you leave the leaves in too long.

You can enjoy it:

• Hot in winter, or chilled during the summer heat
• Alongside traditional Japanese sweets
• As a hojicha latte—sweetened and mixed with milk, it’s rich, cozy, and now popular in cafes around the world
• In desserts like hojicha-flavored ice cream, puddings, and cakes

In Japan, we usually drink hojicha plain, without sugar. But hojicha lattes are a delicious modern twist—sweet, creamy, and perfect for treating yourself. Even if you’re not a tea person, you might fall in love with this dessert-like version.

You’ll find hojicha in tea bags, loose-leaf tins, and latte powders. It’s one of the most beginner-friendly Japanese teas—soft, fragrant, and very easy to love.

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🗣️Comment from a hojicha fan:
“Hojicha lattes are like dessert in a cup. I wouldn’t add sugar to the tea itself—but with milk and a little sweetness, it becomes a whole new treat.”

🌾 3. Mugicha – The Summer Favorite

① What Is Mugicha?

Mugicha is barley tea, made from roasted barley grains that are steeped in hot water. Although it’s not technically a “tea” (it contains no tea leaves), it’s widely recognized in Japan as one of the most common drinks—especially in the hot summer months.

Traditionally, people would brew mugicha in a large kettle, cool it down, and store it in the fridge to enjoy throughout the day. I remember my grandmother doing this in the summer—the sight of a big jug of mugicha in the fridge always meant it was truly summer.

These days, mugicha is also available in plastic bottles, and many people (including me!) don’t boil it at home anymore. Still, the nostalgic feeling and refreshing taste haven’t changed.

② What Does It Taste Like?

Mugicha has a toasty, nutty flavor that’s both bold and refreshing. Unlike green tea, it has zero bitterness, making it especially easy to drink, even for children.

It’s caffeine-free, which is one reason why it’s so popular for all ages. The flavor is strong enough to be satisfying, but gentle enough to drink all day. Many people describe the taste as earthy, comforting, and slightly sweet from the roasted barley.

③ Health Benefits

Mugicha offers more than just refreshment:

• It’s caffeine-free, so you can drink it anytime
• It may help cool the body naturally—perfect for Japan’s humid summers
• Roasted barley contains antioxidants that support overall wellness
• It can help hydrate and replenish minerals lost through sweating

Some studies even suggest that mugicha may support blood circulation and digestive health. No wonder it’s a summer staple.

④ Best Ways to Enjoy It

In summer, mugicha is most commonly served cold from the fridge. Just a glass of cold mugicha after coming home from the heat can feel like a reward. Many households used to make it by boiling roasted barley in a kettle, but these days, tea bags and bottled versions are everywhere—and very convenient.

Though often associated with summer, mugicha can also be enjoyed hot in winter, with a deeper roasted aroma that’s quite soothing.

You’ll find it in:

• Loose roasted barley
• Tea bags for hot or cold brewing
• Bottled drinks in convenience stores or supermarkets

Whether you brew it yourself or grab it on the go, mugicha remains a healthy, nostalgic, and truly Japanese drink.

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🗣️Comment from someone who grew up with mugicha:
“Just the smell of mugicha brings back summer memories—my grandma’s kitchen, hot afternoons, and cool sips straight from the fridge.”

🌰 4. Soba Tea – Nutty and Nourishing

① What Is Soba Tea?

Soba tea, or sobacha, is made from roasted buckwheat kernels—not tea leaves. Though it’s not as well-known outside Japan, it has a growing fanbase thanks to its unique nutty aroma and smooth, toasty flavor.

I first discovered soba tea at a soba noodle restaurant. As soon as I took a sip, I thought, “Wow, this is delicious!” It wasn’t something we drank often at home, but after that first taste, I couldn’t stop drinking it.

Now, it’s one of my favorite teas to keep in the kitchen.

② What Does It Taste Like?

Soba tea has a warm, toasty flavor that’s both gentle and satisfying. It’s not bitter, not sweet—just a clean, nutty taste that pairs beautifully with meals. It’s one of those teas you can drink without even thinking about it, especially during lunch or dinner.

Because of its roasted aroma, it gives a similar comforting feeling to hojicha or genmaicha. And like those teas, it’s caffeine-free, making it perfect for drinking all day long.

③ Health Benefits

Despite its simple ingredients, soba tea is surprisingly nutritious:

• It contains rutin, a natural antioxidant linked to heart health
• It’s caffeine-free, ideal for sensitive drinkers
• May help support circulation and digestion
• Buckwheat is rich in minerals and fiber

Some people even drink soba tea to help regulate blood pressure. It’s a good-for-you tea that feels like a treat.

④ Best Ways to Enjoy It

Soba tea is incredibly easy to prepare—just pour boiling water over the roasted buckwheat kernels or tea bag, steep for a couple of minutes, and you’re done. It has no bitterness, so it’s hard to mess up.

You can enjoy it:

• Hot in winter, for its warming aroma
• Chilled in summer, as a refreshing meal companion
• With rice-based meals or light Japanese dishes
• All day long, thanks to its gentle taste

Many brands offer soba tea in loose form or bags, and once you try it, you might find yourself drinking it more often than you expected.

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🗣️Comment from a soba tea fan:
“I never knew buckwheat could make such a comforting tea. It’s not something I grew up with, but now it’s a regular in my kitchen”

🧂 5. Kombu Tea – More Than Just Tea

① What Is Kombu Tea?

Kombu tea, or kombucha in Japanese (not to be confused with the Western fermented drink), is made from kelp seaweed. It’s a savory, salty tea that delivers a deep umami taste—completely different from traditional herbal or sweet teas.

In Japan, kombu has long been a symbol of good fortune, because the word “kombu” sounds like “yorokobu” (to be happy). As a result, kombu tea is often served at celebratory occasions, or simply as a way to make someone feel welcome and cared for.

It’s a warm, soothing drink—but also a little surprising for first-time tasters!

② What Does It Taste Like?

Kombu tea tastes like umami in liquid form—salty, slightly briny, and deeply savory. If you’re expecting something floral, fruity, or sweet like many herbal teas, it might surprise you at first.

Some compare it to a light broth, rather than a typical “tea.” But once you get used to it, it becomes incredibly comforting—especially when you’re tired or craving something salty and simple.

It’s also popular among those who love Japanese food, because it mirrors the flavor profile of dashi, the broth used in miso soup and other traditional dishes.

③ Health Benefits

Kombu is naturally rich in minerals like iodine, calcium, and iron, as well as umami-producing compounds like glutamic acid. Drinking kombu tea may:

• Support thyroid and bone health
• Aid digestion
• Help replenish minerals after sweating
• Provide a calming, satisfying feeling

It’s also low in calories and caffeine-free, making it suitable for many people, including those on low-sodium diets (if consumed moderately).

④ Best Ways to Enjoy It

Kombu tea is usually sold in granulated or powdered form—just mix it with hot water, and it’s ready to drink.

You can enjoy it:

• As a soothing, warm drink in place of broth
• In the morning or evening, especially when you’re feeling a bit sluggish
• As a base for soup, rice porridge, or light Japanese cooking
• As a clever seasoning—some people even add it to pasta or stir-fries!

Some people even use kombu tea as a substitute for dashi (Japanese soup stock). Just a spoonful of the powder can add umami to soups, rice dishes, or even pasta. It’s an easy shortcut to a traditional flavor.

Because of its savory profile and versatility, kombu tea is both a beverage and a cooking ingredient, making it unique among Japanese teas.

This brand is often seen in supermarkets, and it’s just an example of what kombu tea looks like.

In my case, we usually buy it from a tea shop that my mother has trusted for years.
She often orders her favorite ume kombu tea (plum-flavored) from there—tangy, warming, and so delicious.
Whether for seasoning or sipping, kombu tea has become a regular part of our home kitchen.

🗣️Comment from a curious tea drinker:
“I didn’t expect tea to taste like soup—but kombu tea totally changed how I think about Japanese flavor. Now I use it in my kitchen too!”

🖤 6. Kuromame Tea – The Black Bean Boost

① What Is Kuromame Tea?

Kuromame tea is made from roasted black soybeans, known as kuromame in Japanese. Though it might sound unusual, it’s a traditional tea that’s gaining popularity thanks to its deep flavor and health-boosting reputation.

The beans are roasted until fragrant and dark, then steeped in hot water to create a warm, amber-colored drink. Some people even eat the softened beans after brewing!

In Japanese culture, kuromame symbolizes health and perseverance, and is often eaten during New Year’s for good luck. Drinking it as tea brings those same feelings of nourishment and care.

② What Does It Taste Like?

Kuromame tea has a mild, roasted, slightly sweet flavor. It’s richer and deeper than soba or barley tea, and carries a pleasant aroma that’s hard to describe—but instantly comforting.

Some say it reminds them of roasted chestnuts or baked grains. It’s a tea that feels grounding, warming, and perfect for winding down.

If you love the toasty notes of hojicha or genmaicha, you’ll likely find kuromame tea equally soothing.

③ Health Benefits

Black soybeans are a powerhouse of nutrition. Kuromame tea is:

• Caffeine-free, making it ideal for nighttime or sensitive drinkers
• Rich in anthocyanins, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-aging effects
• Thought to help with blood sugar balance and circulation
• A gentle, hydrating option for people avoiding strong teas

Some people choose kuromame tea as part of their daily wellness routine, especially in colder months when they want something warming and health-conscious.

④ Best Ways to Enjoy It

Kuromame tea is most commonly found in loose form—whole roasted black beans that you steep in hot water. You can also find it in tea bags, which make preparation easy.

Enjoy it:

• Hot in the evening as a caffeine-free relaxer
• With simple meals—its flavor won’t overpower food
• As a health-boosting daily drink, especially in colder seasons
• By eating the softened beans after brewing!

Some versions have a slightly sweet taste without any added sugar, which makes it feel almost like a treat—but still healthy and natural.

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🗣️Comment from a kuromame tea fan:
“I once gave kuromame tea as a gift, and the person absolutely loved it. They had never tried it before, but now they keep asking where to buy more. It’s a unique and thoughtful present—especially for friends who enjoy healthy or traditional Japanese flavors.”

🍋 7. Yuzu Tea – The Citrus Hug

① What Is Yuzu Tea?

Yuzu tea—known in Japanese as yuzu cha—is made from candied yuzu peel mixed with honey or sugar, creating a thick, fragrant syrup. Just a spoonful stirred into hot water creates an instant, warming drink with a bright citrus aroma.

Yuzu is a unique Japanese citrus fruit with a flavor somewhere between lemon and mandarin orange. It’s not eaten raw but is loved for its bold fragrance and refreshing acidity.

Though not technically a “tea” made from leaves, yuzu tea is a beloved drink in Japan, especially in colder seasons.

② What Does It Taste Like?

Yuzu tea has a gentle sweetness, paired with the zesty kick of citrus. It’s soothing, but not heavy. The balance of sweet and tangy makes it feel more like a cozy treat than a daily staple.

You can even enjoy small pieces of candied peel at the bottom of the cup, adding a bit of texture and surprise.

For those who enjoy lemon or honey drinks when feeling under the weather, yuzu tea is a next-level version with a distinct Japanese twist.

③ Health Benefits

Yuzu is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. Yuzu tea is often used as a natural remedy for:

• Soothing sore throats
• Boosting immunity
• Relieving stress with its calming aroma
• Warming the body during cold weather

It’s also caffeine-free, making it a gentle and comforting choice before bed.

④ Best Ways to Enjoy It

Yuzu tea is incredibly simple to prepare:
Just take a spoonful of the yuzu mixture, add hot water, stir, and sip. It’s perfect for:

• Cold winter nights
• Taking a break during busy afternoons
• Winding down before bed
• Treating guests to something a little special

Many people also enjoy yuzu tea when they’re feeling under the weather—the aroma and warmth offer gentle comfort.

You can find jars of yuzu tea mix in Asian markets or online, and they make excellent gifts too. I once gave a jar to a friend going through a rough week, and she told me it was the most comforting thing she’d had in days.

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🗣️Comment from a yuzu tea fan:
“Whenever I’m stressed or feeling cold, yuzu tea is my go-to. Just the smell alone lifts my mood.”

🍵 My Favorite Tea Shop: Mikuniya Zengoro

As I explored different types of Japanese tea, I discovered a tea shop that quickly became one of my all-time favorites—Mikuniya Zengoro.

This shop offers a rich selection of teas from Japan and around the world:
Japanese green teas, Chinese teas, Korean corn tea, Indian black teas, and a variety of herbal blends. Each type is neatly displayed by category, making it easy to find something new to try.

When you walk in, you’re often greeted with a complimentary cup of tea—like the cold-brew genmaicha with Uji matcha I tasted during my last visit. The flavor was so refreshing, I bought a bag on the spot.

They also carry tea-making tools, like matcha whisks and teapots, and offer beautiful gift wrapping that makes any tea feel extra special.

Whether you’re looking for a familiar favorite or something unexpected, this shop has something for everyone.

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The welcoming entrance to a tea shop that celebrates tea from all over the world.

Cold-brew genmaicha with Uji matcha—offered as a free tasting to visitors.

A full wall of Japanese teas, clearly organized with flavor guides and handwritten signs.

Health teas and blend teas like corn tea, soba tea, and deep sleep tea. Each tea section is neatly categorized: Japanese, Chinese, herbal, and more.

🎌 Kaha’s Note: There’s More to Discover

Japanese tea is much more than just green tea. As we’ve seen, from the roasted richness of hojicha to the nutty comfort of soba tea, each variety carries its own flavor, feeling, and story.

Some teas refresh you in the summer, like mugicha. Others warm you in the winter, like yuzu tea. Some bring back memories, like a jar of kuromame tea on the shelf or a grandmother boiling barley in a kettle. And some, like kombu tea, even step outside the usual idea of “tea” and bring umami to both cup and kitchen.

Whether you’re sipping for health, for calm, or for curiosity, Japanese teas offer something for every mood, season, and moment.

🌿 So why not try one you’ve never had before?

And while we’ve explored these easy-to-enjoy teas, there’s still one very traditional tea we haven’t touched on—matcha.

With its bright green color, bold taste, and deep connection to Japanese tea ceremony, matcha deserves a spotlight of its own. In our next article, we’ll dive into this powdered green tea’s history, ritual, and how to enjoy it both traditionally and in modern ways.

Stay tuned for a dedicated journey into the world of matcha.

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