Tea Regions of Japan

On the main island Honshū, as well as on the smaller islands Shikoku and Kyūshū, almost all plantations traditionally grow green tea. These teas vary widely, but all of them present a fresh, clear character. The main harvesting period is between April and September. The very few, select export qualities are therefore, very popular. Right after arrival in the tea factory, the leaves of green tea varieties are steamed in order to stop oxidation by the natural enzymes present in the leaves and to fix the green colour. According to the quality, the leaves are wither hand or machine rolled afterwards.

Shizuoka

Home prefecture of one of the most recognisable mountains in the whole world, Shizuoka is the growing region of most of Japan's green tea. Due to its mineral-rich soil, mild climate, and a costal fog which provides a welcome moisture respite from the sunshine, this prefecture has gained a name synonymous with high quality green tea. 

Our own Japan Sencha Fukujyu is a fantastic representative of this prefecture's perfection of the art of tea growing. 

Kagoshima

Kyūshū is known throughout Japan for soft, cicada song summers and winters watched wistfully from the comfort of one of many onsen - natural hot springs which are prevalent throughout the island. Kagoshima, at the very southmost of this island, paints a slightly different image as it is home to Japan's most active volcano named Sakurajima which has been erupting almost constantly since 1955. As such, volcano drills are commonplace in schools and workplaces, but the constant littering of minerals makes this area atypically fertile. For context, the Sakurajima radish is the biggest radish variety found worldwide. So, despite the danger of living somewhere so active, Kagoshima is a paradise for all that grows - including high quality teas. 

Char's two organic matcha varieties both originate from this incredible place - the Kochmatcha which is best for those using matcha for cooking or lattes, and the Premium Matcha Kagoshima which is best enjoyed in the traditional Japanese method of preparation and serving.

Explore our range of Japanese teas here at Char Teas!