Wazuka Hojicha
50 grams/1.8 oz
Wazuka, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Born from the centuries-old tea traditions of Kyoto, Natural Hojicha is a beautifully balanced roasted green tea that transforms the vibrant freshness of Japanese tea leaves into an exceptionally warm, comforting, and aromatic experience. Crafted in the renowned tea-growing village of Wazuka using naturally cultivated tea leaves, this elegant hojicha embodies the Japanese philosophy that simplicity, patience, and craftsmanship can create extraordinary beauty.
Unlike steamed green teas, Natural Hojicha undergoes a careful roasting process that gently caramelizes the tea leaves, developing rich roasted aromas while significantly reducing caffeine and softening any bitterness. This traditional method produces a tea that is naturally mellow, remarkably smooth, and wonderfully inviting. The use of naturally grown tea leaves allows the subtle character of Kyoto’s terroir to shine through beneath its comforting roasted profile, creating a tea that is equally suited for everyday enjoyment and moments of quiet reflection.
Its beautifully roasted leaves brew into a brilliant amber infusion with an inviting aroma of toasted walnuts, roasted chestnuts, warm cedar, caramel, and freshly baked bread. The cup opens with a silky smooth body and gentle sweetness before revealing comforting notes of roasted grains, hazelnut, cocoa, and a touch of maple. Unlike darker roasted beverages, Natural Hojicha remains exceptionally clean and delicate, finishing with a lingering sweetness and almost no bitterness. Each sip offers warmth without heaviness, making it one of Japan’s most approachable and comforting teas.
Naturally low in caffeine, Natural Hojicha is the perfect companion for relaxed afternoons, peaceful evenings, or sharing meaningful conversation over tea. Its rich roasted character appeals equally to lifelong tea enthusiasts, coffee lovers, and anyone seeking a soothing cup to unwind at the end of the day.
Tasting Notes
Aroma: Toasted walnuts, roasted chestnuts, caramel, cedar, freshly baked bread
Flavor: Roasted grains, hazelnut, soft cocoa, gentle caramel, maple sweetness
Body: Medium
Finish: Smooth, clean, lightly sweet, warming, and remarkably mellow
Brewing Guide (Western Style)
Tea: 2–3 grams (approximately 1 teaspoon) per 8 oz (240 ml) of water
Water Temperature: 195–205°F (90–96°C)
Steep Time: 45–60 seconds
Natural Hojicha is wonderfully forgiving to brew. Hotter water enhances its signature roasted aromas while maintaining its naturally smooth character and minimizing bitterness.
Gongfu Cha Brewing
Natural Hojicha develops beautifully through multiple short infusions, gradually revealing deeper layers of roasted sweetness, toasted nuts, warm wood, and gentle caramel.
Tea: 5 grams
Vessel: 100–120 ml Kyusu, Hohin, or Small Gaiwan
Water Temperature: 195–205°F (90–96°C)
Recommended Infusions
Rinse: Optional (5 seconds)
1st Infusion: 20 seconds
2nd Infusion: 25 seconds
3rd Infusion: 35 seconds
4th Infusion: 50 seconds
5th Infusion: 70 seconds
Additional Infusions: Increase steep time by 20–30 seconds as desired.
Expected Steeps: 4–6 comforting infusions
Each infusion gently evolves from sweet roasted chestnuts and toasted grains to richer notes of cocoa, caramel, warm cedar, and subtle maple, maintaining remarkable smoothness from the first cup to the last.
Tea Minister’s Serving Suggestion
Natural Hojicha is one of Japan’s most versatile teas and may be enjoyed throughout the day thanks to its naturally low caffeine content. Pair it with roasted nuts, mushroom dishes, grilled vegetables, rustic breads, oatmeal cookies, dark chocolate, crème brûlée, apple pie, roasted sweet potatoes, or simple butter cookies. It is equally delightful served hot on a cool evening or chilled over ice during warmer months. Its comforting character also makes it a wonderful companion for journaling, evening meditation, fireside conversations, or simply slowing down after a busy day.
“Natural Hojicha reminds us that transformation often comes through gentle warmth. Just as the fire brings new depth and character to every leaf, life’s quiet moments of reflection shape us into something richer, wiser, and more beautifully authentic.”
