About Houjicha

Houjicha is a synaesthetic experience that envelops the senses with roasted charm and a mild aroma. The origins of this unique tea are rooted in Japanese tea culture, which emphasizes mindfulness and the benefits of nature. Houjicha differs from traditional green tea in its characteristic roasting process, in which the tea leaves are gently heated until they take on an appealing maroon color.

The roasting process is key to the creation of this tea and gives it not only its distinctive aroma, but also its smooth, smoky note, which is combined with a slightly sweet component. Unlike other green teas, such as Sencha or Gyokuro, Houjicha is largely free of astringency thanks to the roasting process. This characteristic makes it a valued companion for those who want to enjoy the tea at any time of day - even in the evening - as it also has a lower caffeine content.

Houjicha's desirability lies not least in its versatility. Traditionally in Japan, it is often enjoyed as a drink for the whole family, even by children and the elderly. Appreciated for its digestible lightness, houjicha is often served warm, but in the hot summer months it can also be enjoyed as a refreshing cold drink. A characteristic sweetness develops more strongly at low water temperatures, while hot water emphasizes the depth of the roasted aromas.

The tea leaves used in the production of houjicha often come from bancha, a tea harvested later in the year, or from kukicha, a mixture of leaves and stems. The use of these materials, which might be considered lower quality in other productions, demonstrates the philosophy of wasting nothing and valuing everything.

Apart from its palate-pleasing taste, houjicha has a low calorie content and is considered easy on the stomach due to its low caffeine and catechin levels. This makes it not only an ideal drink for sensitive individuals, but also a popular harbinger of a healthy lifestyle.

In Japan, a subtle houjicha culture has developed over time that delights the human senses. The art of roasting often becomes an individual style of expression, as time, temperature and technique vary depending on the master. These nuances lead to a variety of flavors and creations that can surprise every connoisseur anew. Houjicha has also left its mark in fine creations of pastries or ice cream and is increasingly found in modern interpretations of Japanese desserts, giving the tea a renaissance in taste.

The simple sophistication of houjicha encourages you to treat yourself to a moment of calm in a hectic world, to soothe your senses and feel the natural harmony in every sip.