The Art of Japanese Tea: A Connoisseur's Guide to Green Tea, Gyokuro, and More | Understanding Temperature, Taste, and Tradition

The Fascinating World of Japanese Tea: A Tradition Rooted in Science and Culture

Japanese tea has been an integral part of Japanese culture for over a thousand years. Introduced from China during the Nara period, it became a cherished beverage among the nobility in the Heian period before gradually spreading to the common people.

Many people search online for the different types of Japanese tea, especially wanting to understand the differences between Sencha and Gyokuro, as well as the characteristics of Hojicha and Matcha. Additionally, there is growing interest in health-related queries like “Which tea contains the most catechins?” or “Which tea is low in caffeine?”

While most people associate Japanese tea with Sencha or Gyokuro, there are actually many varieties available. Some are steamed, while others are post-fermented or processed using unique techniques, offering a wide range of flavors and aromas.

Japanese tea is also recognized for its health benefits. It contains catechins, which have antioxidant properties that support immune function and fat metabolism, and theanine, which is known for its relaxing effects.

In this article, we will provide a clear and concise overview of the different types of Japanese tea, highlighting their unique characteristics and main production regions. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which tea best suits your taste preferences.

Types of Japanese Tea – Understanding the Basics in Four Categories

Japanese tea can be broadly classified into the following four categories:

1. Green Tea (Unfermented Tea): Tea that is steamed to prevent oxidation (e.g., Sencha, Gyokuro)
2. Semi-Fermented Tea: Tea that is partially fermented (e.g., Kamairicha)
3. Post-Fermented Tea: Tea that is fully fermented (e.g., Awa Bancha, Goishicha)
4. Specially Processed Tea: Tea processed using unique methods (e.g., Matcha, Powdered Tea, Cold Brew Tea)

Let’s take a closer look at each type!

1. Green Tea (Unfermented Tea) – The Most Commonly Enjoyed Japanese Tea

Green tea is the most widely consumed type of Japanese tea, enjoyed daily in many households. The steaming process prevents oxidation, preserving its vibrant green color and distinct flavors. Depending on the variety, the balance of sweetness, astringency, and aroma differs, offering various ways to enjoy it.

Types of green tea include Gyokuro, Sencha, Fukamushi Sencha, Tamaryokucha, and Kariganecha, each with its own unique processing method and taste profile. The cultivation and processing techniques also influence the flavor and aroma, making it enjoyable to experiment with different food pairings.

Gyokuro (玉露)

Gyokuro is a premium tea cultivated under shade before harvesting, enhancing its umami (amino acids). Uji Gyokuro from Kyoto is especially famous for its luxurious, rich taste and sweetness.

Processing Method

Developed in Uji during the late Edo period. The tea plants are shaded for over 20 days using straw or synthetic covers to block direct sunlight, reducing catechin (astringency) and increasing theanine (umami).

Main Production Areas

Kyoto (Uji), Fukuoka (Yame)

Tea Varieties

Saemidori: Strong sweetness and rich taste. Gokou: Rich aroma and umami.

Flavor and Aroma

Extremely umami-rich, mellow, and sweet. Minimal astringency with a smooth mouthfeel. Unique seaweed-like aroma.

Nutritional Benefits

High in theanine for relaxation. Contains caffeine, making it ideal for an energy boost. Strong antioxidant properties beneficial for beauty and health.

Brewing Tips

Use low temperatures (50°C) for a slow extraction to highlight sweetness and umami. For the second infusion, increase to around 60°C to enjoy the change in flavor.

Recommended Drinking Style

To savor its luxurious umami, pour small amounts into small cups and drink slowly. Pairs well with traditional Japanese sweets (yokan, nerikiri) to enhance the flavor.

Best Pairings

Japanese sweets (yokan, nerikiri), delicate Japanese cuisine (kaiseki, sushi)

Kabusecha (冠茶)

Source: Murozono Meicha (Yame, Fukuoka)

Kabusecha is a tea shaded for a shorter period than Gyokuro, offering a balance between Gyokuro’s umami and Sencha’s astringency.

Processing Method

The tea plants are shaded for 7–10 days before harvesting to reduce catechin (astringency) while increasing theanine (umami). Less sweet than Gyokuro but mellower than Sencha.

Main Production Areas

Mie, Kyoto, Kagoshima

Tea Varieties

Okumidori: Low astringency and high sweetness. Yabukita: A well-balanced standard variety.

Flavor and Aroma

Well-balanced umami and astringency. Sweeter than Sencha but lighter than Gyokuro. Refreshing, slightly grassy aroma.

Nutritional Benefits

Balanced catechin and theanine content, promoting relaxation. High in antioxidants.

Brewing Tips

Use 60–70°C water to bring out the sweetness and aroma. Increase the temperature slightly for the second infusion for a crisper taste.

Recommended Drinking Style

Its moderate sweetness and lightness make it ideal for pairing with meals. Complements grilled fish and simmered Japanese dishes.

Best Pairings

Lightly sweet Japanese sweets (dorayaki, monaka). Pairs well with grilled fish and simmered dishes.

Sencha (煎茶)

Sencha is the most commonly consumed Japanese tea, grown under sunlight, offering a balanced blend of astringency and umami.

Processing Method

Established in the Edo period as the mainstream Japanese tea. Steaming prevents oxidation, preserving its vibrant green color.

Main Production Areas

Shizuoka (about 40% of national production), Kagoshima, Mie

Flavor and Aroma

Balanced astringency and umami. Refreshing grassy aroma.

Brewing Tips

Use 70–80°C water to extract a well-balanced flavor.

Recommended Drinking Style

Excellent with Japanese meals, especially sushi and tempura. When chilled, it becomes refreshingly crisp, making it perfect for summer. Ideal as a daily tea.

Best Pairings

Japanese cuisine (sushi, tempura), Western desserts (cheesecake, cookies)

Fukamushi Sencha (深蒸し煎茶)

Fukamushi Sencha is a deep-steamed version of Sencha, giving it a richer flavor with reduced astringency.

Processing Method

Developed in Shizuoka during the Showa era. Steamed for 2–3 times longer than regular Sencha, resulting in a mellow taste.

Main Production Areas

Shizuoka, Kagoshima

Flavor and Aroma

Rich and full-bodied, with minimal astringency. Smooth, easy to drink. Deep green infusion color.

Brewing Tips

Use water around 70°C to bring out its sweetness and robust flavor.

Recommended Drinking Style

With its strong flavor and reduced astringency, it’s ideal for a morning pick-me-up or relaxation. Pairs well with creamy desserts like custard tarts and pudding.

Best Pairings

Rich Japanese sweets (daifuku, yokan), creamy Western pastries (custard tart)

Tamaryokucha (玉緑茶)

Source: Sansuien Tea (Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto)

Tamaryokucha is a unique green tea produced in Kyushu, characterized by its curled leaves and mild, sweet taste.

Processing Method

Originated in Nagasaki and Kumamoto during the Meiji period. Unlike standard Sencha, it skips the final rolling process, resulting in rounder tea leaves.

Main Production Areas

Nagasaki, Kumamoto

Flavor and Aroma

Mellow, slightly sweet, with minimal astringency. Light, refreshing citrusy aroma.

Brewing Tips

Use water around 70°C to enhance its natural sweetness.

Recommended Drinking Style

With its citrus-like aroma, adding lemon or orange enhances its flavor. When served iced with lemon slices, it becomes an invigorating summer drink.

Best Pairings

Citrus-flavored Japanese sweets (yuzu yokan, kumquat daifuku), light Japanese dishes (chazuke, somen)

Kariganecha (雁ヶ音茶)

Source: Shouhoku - en (Uji, Kyoto)

Kariganecha is a high-quality stem tea made from the stems of Gyokuro or premium Sencha, offering a refreshing aroma and mild umami.

Processing Method

Known as “stem tea” since the Edo period, originally consumed as a byproduct of high-grade teas.

Main Production Areas

Kyoto (Uji), Fukuoka (Yame)

Flavor and Aroma

Less astringent, with a refined umami. Refreshing fragrance. Light and easy to drink.

Brewing Tips

Use water at 70°C for a more pronounced umami taste.

Recommended Drinking Style

With its light body, it pairs well with slightly salty snacks like salted daifuku or rice crackers. In summer, cold brewing brings out its refreshing qualities.

Best Pairings

Salty Japanese sweets (shio-daifuku, senbei), simple Japanese dishes (whitefish sashimi, yudofu)

2. Semi-Fermented Tea – The Unique Appeal of Japan’s Kamairicha

Semi-fermented tea is tea that has undergone partial oxidation, creating a flavor profile between green tea and oolong tea. In Japan, the most well-known semi-fermented tea is Kamairicha, which is pan-fired rather than steamed, giving it a distinct toasty aroma and a crisp aftertaste.

Unlike Chinese oolong tea, Japanese Kamairicha is not steamed but instead roasted in a pan, resulting in a unique character.

Kamairicha (釜炒り茶)

Source: Setoya Megumi Tea Garden (Fujieda, Shizuoka)

Kamairicha is a unique Japanese semi-fermented tea made by roasting freshly picked tea leaves in a pan instead of steaming them. This process prevents oxidation while enhancing its distinctively nutty aroma and refreshing taste.

Processing Method

Instead of steaming, the leaves are roasted directly in an iron pan, reducing oxidation and creating a distinct toasted aroma. Compared to Chinese oolong tea, it has a lower fermentation level, making it closer in taste to green tea.

Main Production Areas

Kumamoto, Miyazaki

Flavor and Aroma

Low astringency with a signature nutty, toasty fragrance. Light and crisp aftertaste.

Nutritional Benefits

Contains catechins, which provide antioxidant benefits. Lower in caffeine than regular green tea, making it gentler on the stomach.

Brewing Tips

Use water around 80°C to bring out its toasty aroma. Avoid using excessively hot water, as it may become too astringent.

Recommended Drinking Style

The nutty aroma pairs excellently with baked goods such as biscotti or castella. It also acts as a great palate cleanser after oily foods.

Best Pairings

Lightly salted Japanese sweets (rice crackers, shio daifuku), simple Japanese dishes (grilled fish, ohitashi)

3. Post-Fermented Tea – Unique Flavors Created Through Fermentation

Post-fermented teas undergo a fermentation process that enhances their distinctive flavors and deep complexity. The fermentation process results in a unique acidity and rich depth of taste, making these teas stand out from other Japanese teas.

Like Pu-erh tea from China, these fermented teas continue to develop in flavor over time. Some varieties, such as Awa Bancha and Goishicha, have been produced using traditional fermentation techniques that have been preserved for generations. Due to their strong acidity, they are sometimes blended with other teas to balance the taste.

Hojicha (ほうじ茶)

Hojicha is a roasted green tea made by toasting Sencha or Bancha leaves at high temperatures. This process gives it a deep toasty aroma and significantly reduces caffeine content, making it a great tea for relaxation.

Processing Method

Sencha or Bancha leaves are roasted at high temperatures, giving the tea a rich amber color and smoky aroma. The degree of roasting affects the flavor intensity.

Main Production Areas

Kyoto, Shizuoka, Kagoshima

Flavor and Aroma

Rich, nutty aroma with a naturally sweet and smooth taste. Very low bitterness and astringency, making it easy to drink.

Nutritional Benefits

Low in caffeine, making it suitable for drinking before bed. Contains pyrazines, which have a calming effect.

Brewing Tips

Use 90°C or higher hot water to bring out its deep roasted aroma.

Recommended Drinking Style

Its toasty flavor makes it perfect for pairing with chocolates and nuts. When served chilled, it has a refreshing, crisp aftertaste that pairs well with meals.

Best Pairings

Japanese sweets (senbei, dorayaki), Western sweets (biscotti, chocolate)

Kyobancha (京番茶)

Source: Obubu Tea Farm (Wazuka, Kyoto)

Kyobancha is a unique post-fermented tea from Kyoto, known for its smoky aroma and light-bodied taste.

Processing Method

Leaves and stems of Sencha or Bancha are roasted over high heat, creating a distinct smoky aroma. Traditionally consumed in Kyoto, it is also used in dishes such as tea porridge (Ochazuke).

Main Production Areas

Kyoto

Flavor and Aroma

Smoky, roasted aroma with little astringency. Mild and easy to drink.

Nutritional Benefits

Low in caffeine, making it gentle on the stomach. Pairs well with meals due to its refreshing taste.

Brewing Tips

Use 90°C or higher hot water to highlight the smoky flavor.

Recommended Drinking Style

Due to its smoky notes, it pairs well with smoked cheese and smoked salmon. In Kyoto, it is commonly enjoyed as tea porridge (Ochazuke), a traditional breakfast dish.

Best Pairings

Grilled fish, simmered Japanese dishes, smoked foods (smoked cheese, bacon)

Awa Bancha (阿波番茶)

Source: Maebara Farm (Katsuura, Tokushima)

Awa Bancha is a fermented tea from Tokushima Prefecture, known for its lactic acid fermentation, which gives it a distinct mild acidity and deep umami flavor.

Processing Method

Freshly harvested tea leaves are steamed, then placed in wooden barrels to undergo lactic acid fermentation for over a month, developing its signature acidity.

Main Production Areas

Tokushima

Flavor and Aroma

Unique mild acidity with a subtle sweetness. Refreshing aftertaste.

Nutritional Benefits

Rich in probiotics that support gut health. Fermentation alters catechins, reducing bitterness.

Brewing Tips

Use 80°C water to balance its acidity and umami.

Recommended Drinking Style

Its natural acidity pairs well with fermented foods like pickles and cheese. When served cold, the acidity becomes milder, making it a refreshing drink.

Best Pairings

Fermented foods (pickles, cheese), light Japanese dishes (cold tofu, sunomono)

Goishicha (碁石茶)

Goishicha is Japan’s only “double-fermented” tea, produced in Kochi Prefecture. This complex fermentation process creates a deep umami and unique acidity, making it one of Japan’s most distinctive teas.

Processing Method

The leaves are steamed, then first fermented using mold cultures, followed by a second lactic acid fermentation. After fermentation, they are hand-cut into small “go” (stone) shaped pieces and dried.

Main Production Areas

Kochi

Flavor and Aroma

Rich umami with a complex acidity. Deep, layered flavor profile.

Nutritional Benefits

High in probiotics for gut health. Rich in polyphenols, providing strong antioxidant benefits.

Brewing Tips

Use 90°C or higher hot water for a strong, well-extracted taste.

Recommended Drinking Style

Its acidic, umami-rich taste pairs well with miso-based dishes and vinegared foods. It also complements yogurt due to its probiotic content.

Best Pairings

Fermented foods (miso, yogurt), acidic dishes (nanbanzuke, sweet and sour pork)

4. Specially Processed Tea – Unique Japanese Tea Creations

Specially processed teas are crafted using unique production techniques that differ from conventional tea processing. Examples include Matcha, which is ground into a fine powder and consumed whole, and Cold Brew Tea, which is extracted using cold water to produce a naturally sweet flavor.

These teas offer distinctive aromas, flavors, and drinking styles, allowing for diverse ways to enjoy them depending on the occasion.

Matcha is commonly used in traditional tea ceremonies, but today, it is also widely incorporated into desserts and beverages. Cold Brew Tea, on the other hand, is especially popular during hot seasons for its refreshing and smooth taste, with Gyokuro and Sencha being particularly well-suited for this method.

Matcha (抹茶)

Matcha is made by grinding shade-grown tea leaves (Tencha) into a fine powder using a stone mill. Uji Matcha from Kyoto is especially renowned for its vivid green color and deep umami.

Processing Method

Grown under shade before harvest to reduce bitterness and enhance umami, then processed into Tencha and ground into a fine powder using a traditional stone mill.

Main Production Areas

Kyoto (Uji), Aichi (Nishio)

Flavor and Aroma

Rich umami and sweetness, with a hint of astringency. Creamy texture when whisked properly.

Nutritional Benefits

High in theanine for relaxation. Contains catechins with strong antioxidant properties, beneficial for beauty and health.

Brewing Tips

Use water at around 80°C and whisk well with a chasen (bamboo whisk) for a smooth and frothy consistency.

Recommended Drinking Style

Matcha’s deep umami pairs exceptionally well with traditional Japanese sweets like yokan and dorayaki. It can also be mixed with milk or ice cream to create Matcha Lattes.

Best Pairings

Japanese sweets (yokan, dorayaki), Matcha-based desserts (Matcha cake, Matcha chocolate)

Powdered Tea (粉末茶)

Powdered Tea is finely ground Sencha, allowing you to consume the entire tea leaf in a convenient, easy-to-drink format. It has a stronger astringency compared to Matcha.

Processing Method

Regular Sencha leaves are ground into a fine powder, allowing the entire leaf to be consumed. Unlike Matcha, it retains the natural astringency of Sencha.

Main Production Areas

Various regions

Flavor and Aroma

Stronger astringency with a bold green tea flavor. Easily dissolves in hot or cold water.

Nutritional Benefits

High in catechins, providing antioxidant benefits. Since the whole leaf is consumed, it also contains fiber and vitamins.

Brewing Tips

Simply dissolve in hot or cold water. Mix well to avoid clumping.

Recommended Drinking Style

Its quick preparation makes it ideal for busy mornings or office breaks. It can also be blended into smoothies, yogurt, or shakes for added nutrition.

Best Pairings

Lightly sweet Japanese sweets (monaka, senbei), everyday meals (onigiri, grilled fish)

Cold Brew Tea (水出し茶)

Source: Seikoen Tea (Kumamoto)

Cold Brew Tea is a slowly steeped tea extracted using cold water, which results in a naturally sweeter and smoother taste with reduced bitterness.

Processing Method

Brewing at a low temperature over several hours prevents excessive catechin extraction, reducing astringency and enhancing theanine-derived sweetness.

Main Production Areas

Various regions

Flavor and Aroma

Mild and naturally sweet, with little bitterness. Refreshing and smooth taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Lower in caffeine, making it suitable for drinking before bed. High in theanine, promoting relaxation.

Brewing Tips

Steep tea leaves in cold water for 4–6 hours. Using ice-cold water enhances sweetness.

Recommended Drinking Style

Perfect for summer, especially when infused with fruits like citrus or berries for a refreshing twist.

Best Pairings

Summer Japanese sweets (mizu-yokan, warabi mochi), fresh fruits (citrus, peach)

Why Does Each Type of Tea Require a Different Brewing Temperature?

The ideal brewing temperature for each type of tea varies due to differences in chemical composition. The optimal extraction temperature affects the balance of umami, astringency, and bitterness, ensuring the best possible flavor.

The differences in brewing temperature are primarily due to how amino acids (umami), catechins (astringency), and caffeine (bitterness) dissolve in water.

1. Temperature-Dependent Solubility of Tea Components
   • Theanine (umami compound) → Easily extracted at low temperatures (20–70°C)
   • Catechin (astringent compound) → Extracted more at higher temperatures (80°C and above)
   • Caffeine (bitter compound) → Rapidly dissolves at 90°C, but can also be extracted at low temperatures over time (e.g., cold brew tea)
2. The Science Behind Cold Brew Tea’s Sweetness
   • Slow extraction with cold water reduces catechin and caffeine content, resulting in a smoother, sweeter taste.
   • More theanine (responsible for umami) is extracted, creating a naturally mild and refreshing tea.
3. Traditional Brewing Techniques Align with Modern Research
   • The Edo-period brewing method for Gyokuro at low temperatures was scientifically validated as the best way to extract umami.
   • Studies have shown that brewing at high temperatures enhances bitterness and astringency, making it unsuitable for delicate teas like Gyokuro.

These scientific findings have been confirmed by research and industry publications:

• Dissolution Properties of Major Tea Components in Tea Infusions [PDF] - National Institute of Vegetable and Tea Science
• Understanding Cold Brew Green Tea - National Agriculture and Food Research Organization
• Expert Tips on Brewing Delicious Green Tea - Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
• Balancing Flavor and Health Benefits in Cold Brew Green Tea - Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

In summary, Gyokuro and high-grade teas should be brewed at low temperatures, standard Sencha at 70–80°C, Bancha and Hojicha at high temperatures, and Cold Brew Tea should be steeped in cold water for a naturally mild and sweet taste.

It’s remarkable how traditional Japanese tea brewing methods—developed centuries ago—were scientifically accurate long before modern research validated them. The wisdom of past generations in refining the perfect brewing techniques is truly impressive.

Enjoy Japanese Tea According to Your Mood and the Occasion!

Japanese tea comes in a variety of types, including green tea, fermented tea, and specially processed tea, each offering unique flavors and aromas. The beauty of Japanese tea lies in the ability to choose the perfect type based on your mood, preferences, or occasion.

• For a luxurious umami experience → Gyokuro or Matcha
• For a crisp and refreshing taste → Sencha or Kamairicha
• For a rich, toasty aroma → Hojicha or Kyobancha
• For a unique fermented flavor → Awa Bancha or Goishicha
• For a light and cooling drink in summer → Cold Brew Tea

Japanese tea is also known for its health benefits, containing theanine for relaxation and catechins for antioxidant properties. Incorporating Japanese tea into your daily routine can contribute to overall wellness and beauty.

Recently, specialty tea shops and cafes have begun offering a wide selection of Japanese teas, making it easier than ever to explore different varieties. Why not start by trying a tea that catches your interest? Discovering the depth and complexity of Japanese tea can make your tea time even more enjoyable.

Find your favorite Japanese tea and savor it as part of your daily life.