Related article: Be a Japanese tea expert: types of green tea
What is hojicha?
Hojicha is a type of roasted green tea that has a deep, toasty flavor and a reddish-brown color. It is made by roasting the tea leaves over a high heat, which gives it its distinctive flavor and aroma. Hojicha has a lower caffeine content than other types of green tea, making it a good choice for those who want to enjoy a relaxing evening drink. It is also a great choice for those who may not be fans of the grassy flavor of regular green tea, as the roasting process helps to mellow out the taste. Hojicha lattes and desserts are becoming popular, as this tea brings a caramelised note. Hojicha, along with the green sencha is a popular choice in Japanese homes. We tend to buy the leaves in teabags or loose in supermarkets or department stores.
What is mugicha (barley tea)?
Mugicha is a type of roasted barley tea that is popular in Japan, particularly during the hot summer months. It is made by roasting barley grains and then steeping them in hot water to create a nutty, slightly sweet beverage. Mugicha is known for its refreshing, thirst-quenching properties and is served cold. You can buy boxes of large mugicha teabags which you then steep in a large jug of water in the fridge overnight. You’ll also find mugicha to be served commonly in casual restaurants and drinking establishments.
What is bancha?
Bancha tea is is made from the leaves of the same plant as sencha green tea. It is typically harvested later in the season, after the first and second flushes of tea have been picked, and is considered to be a lower quality tea than those harvested earlier in the season. Bancha tea is known for its mild, slightly bitter taste and its relatively low caffeine content. It is often served as a daily tea in Japan.
Oolong tea in Japan
Oolong tea is a type of partially fermented tea that is popular in Japan and other parts of Asia. Oolong tea is known for its rich, complex flavor, which is a result of the partial fermentation process that it undergoes. In Japan, oolong tea is sold in cans and small bottles and enjoyed like a soft drink. You’d expect to find it in casual restaurants and bars. Interestingly, oolong tea is also used as a mixer. Oolong-hai is a popular alcoholic drink served in izakaya bars and is a blend of oolong-tea, shochu (Japanese liquor) and ice.