A brief look at tea—Japan’s most beloved beverage—and the culture surrounding it.

Suddenly, I’d like to mention that on February 6 last month, I made a post about bento—one of Japan’s deeply rooted food traditions. This time, I’m going to post about tea, which is inseparable from bento.

Green tea is one of the most popular drinks in Japan.

Tea itself was first introduced to Japan from China in the ancient times, and by 12th century, the drinking of matcha, a powdered tea brewed in hot water, had become popular among Buddhist priests and the aristocracy. By the 16th century, a ceremonial way of preparing and drinking green tea called “tea ceremony” had also appeared. Beyond just serving and receiving tea, one of the main purposes of tea ceremony is for guests to enjoy the hospitality of the host in a tranquil atmosphere.

Today, a type of tea called sencha has become the heart of Japanese green tea. There are also various other types of green tea. The differences between them depend on their production processes, the parts of the tea leaves used, and where they were produced, such as Kyoto or Shizuoka. Sencha is tea made by streaming, rolling, and drying tea leaves. Green tea is a health drink, rich in vitamin C and minerals.

This is a bottled tea sold inside the Michi‑no‑Eki Aso roadside station.👇

 

Here are several varieties of hot tea. 👇

 

Tea leaves nurtured by Aso’s pristine water and rich natural environment are also displayed here at the Michi‑no‑Eki Aso storefront. 👇

 

As shown in the photos above, tea is delicious whether served cold or hot. With spring and summer just around the corner, a chilled tea is perfect for the warmer days, and of course, you’re free to choose whichever suits your condition or mood. We’re confident that you’ll fully enjoy Aso’s great outdoors as it enters its peak season.

Well then, everyone, Aso still has the occasional chilly day, but spring is finally in full swing. See you in the next blog—until then, let’s both stay well and healthy. 😊😊

 

 

カテゴリー: English Blog, おすすめ   タグ: , , , , ,   この投稿のパーマリンク
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