Description

Japanese Hojicha – Low Caffeine Japanese Roasted Green Tea

Hojicha is traditionally made by roasting tea leaves. However, this tea takes a different approach. It uses only kukicha (tea stems), which create a smoother texture, cleaner flavour, and naturally lower caffeine. In Japan, kukicha (also known as bōcha) is a distinct style of tea. It comes from the same tea plants used to produce high-quality green tea. While the leaves become premium teas, the stems provide a clean, smooth, and balanced character. Instead of blending leaves and stems, this tea focuses only on kukicha. As a result, it delivers a smoother and more refined expression of hojicha. By focusing exclusively on kukicha rather than a blend of leaves and stems, this tea presents a more refined and elegant expression of hojicha.

Sourced from Chiran, Japan

Located in the southernmost of Japan’s leading tea-growing regions, Chiran benefits from a warm climate that supports steady growth and contributes to its smooth, well-balanced teas. While regions such as Shizuoka and Uji are more widely recognised internationally, Chiran is highly regarded within Japan for its consistent quality and dedication to tea cultivation. Less exposed to the global market, it has remained focused on craftsmanship rather than scale. Sourced from this region in Kagoshima Prefecture, this tea reflects generations of careful cultivation. The stems are gently roasted to develop a warm, nutty aroma while preserving a soft sweetness and a remarkably smooth finish.

Carefully Roasted for Balance and Clarity

At Nitao Chiran Tea Estate, producers select naturally sweet kukicha stems and roast them with care. During roasting, heat reduces the compounds that cause bitterness and astringency. As a result, the tea develops a clean mouthfeel and a gentle, easy-drinking character. Roasting also affects colour, aroma, and flavour. Therefore, the tea garden carefully controls the process. They aim to keep the tea’s original character while building a warm, toasty aroma. Instead of creating a strong roast, they focus on balance. This approach keeps the natural sweetness while adding depth and comfort.

Smooth, Gentle and Naturally Low in Caffeine

This tea offers a soft aroma, low bitterness, and a smooth, gentle finish. Because kukicha contains less caffeine than leaf tea, it provides a naturally low-caffeine option. Therefore, many people enjoy it throughout the day. It suits a wide range of people, including children and older adults. It also works well in the evening or during moments when a calming tea is preferred.

Taste Profile

• Warm, toasted aroma
• Smooth, clean and light mouthfeel
• Naturally sweet undertones
• Low bitterness with a soft, rounded finish

Brewing Guide

Use 2–3g of tea per 200ml of water. Brew at 90–95°C for 45–60 seconds.
This tea can be re-steeped 2–3 times, with each infusion revealing subtle variations in aroma and flavour.

Storage & Freshness

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

In support of reducing food waste:
For best aroma and flavour, enjoy within 6–9 months of opening.
This tea remains safe to drink beyond the best-before date if stored properly, though its aroma may gradually soften over time.

Product Details

• Net weight: 80g per pack
• Origin: Kagoshima (Chiran), Japan
• Tea type: Kukicha Hojicha (Roasted Stem Green Tea)
• Ingredients: Green tea
• Shelf life: Approx. 6-8 months from production
• Allergen: None

Why Kukicha Hojicha

Kukicha hojicha highlights the often-overlooked elegance of tea stems, offering a gentle and refined alternative to conventional roasted green tea. It is a thoughtful choice for those who value balance, subtlety, and authenticity in Japanese tea.

Enjoy this tea anywhere with our reusable takeaway cups, designed for everyday use.