Summer is just around the corner, and staying hydrated with Japanese tea is definitely one of the top priorities during the hot and humid Japanese summer.
Cool Down and Stay Healthy With This Japanese Tea Perfect for Summer
Let’s check out some of the most loved and health-packed Japanese teas and Japanese herbal teas to enjoy this summer.
Genmaicha
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Genmaicha, or brown rice green tea, is a beloved Japanese blend combining green tea leaves, usually bancha or sencha, with roasted brown rice kernels. Originally known as “the people’s tea” because the addition of rice made it more affordable, Genmaicha has since gained popularity across all levels of tea lovers for its unique, comforting flavor and balance.
The taste of Genmaicha is toasty, nutty, and slightly sweet, thanks to the roasted rice, which complements the fresh, grassy notes of the green tea. Some versions even include popped rice kernels that resemble little bits of popcorn, adding to its rustic charm. Because it uses bancha or lower-caffeine sencha, it’s gentle on the stomach and can be enjoyed throughout the day without overstimulation.
Genmaicha is especially popular in the summer when served cold. Its light body and roasted aroma make it a refreshing choice for warm weather, whether brewed traditionally and cooled or steeped slowly in cold water. The combination of green tea’s antioxidants and the warming flavor of roasted rice also makes it a grounding drink for moments of calm or a cozy companion to a simple meal. It’s a perfect example of Japanese harmony in flavor and tradition.
Matsubacha
Matsubacha is a traditional Japanese herbal tea made from the needles of the red pine tree. It is known for its refreshing aroma and slight bitterness. Since it’s naturally caffeine-free, it’s ideal for cooling down on hot summer days and for those seeking a healthy, calming drink.
Matsubacha contains chlorophyll, quercetin, vitamin C, and essential oils like α-pinene. These components offer antioxidant benefits, help promote blood circulation, and may provide a relaxing effect. The tea has a crisp, pine-like fragrance with a subtle bitterness, making it perfect for after meals or during moments of relaxation.
Its unique flavor profile also makes it enjoyable and warm during cooler seasons and it is a great option for anyone looking to stay cool and healthy in the summer or to incorporate a soothing herbal tea into their daily routine.
Suginacha
When brewed as a tea, horsetail has a mild, green tea-like flavor and aroma, making it lighter than many other herbal teas. Its subtle scent doesn’t overpower other ingredients, making it a versatile addition to any herbal tea blend. Since it’s naturally caffeine-free, it’s a safe option for those avoiding caffeine.
Suginacha is rich in minerals, especially calcium and magnesium.
You might enjoy experimenting by blending it with other herbal teas to suit your personal needs and preferences.
Kukicha
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Kukicha, also known as twig tea or “stem tea,” is a unique and traditional Japanese green tea made not from the leaves of the tea plant but from its stems, stalks, and twigs. It is a byproduct of the production of higher-grade teas like gyokuro and sencha, which makes it more affordable while still offering a distinctive flavor and nutritional profile.
Kukicha has a light, slightly sweet, and nutty taste with a creamy, sometimes roasted aroma. Unlike many green teas, it is low in caffeine due to the minimal leaves in the blend, making it a great choice for children or for drinking later in the day. Both green (unroasted) and roasted (like Hojicha) versions are available—the roasted type tends to have a toastier flavor and is especially popular in colder months, though both are enjoyable year-round.
Kukicha is also valued in macrobiotic diets, praised for its alkalizing properties and high mineral content, including calcium, magnesium, and fluoride. Its refreshing but mellow taste makes it perfect for summer too, especially when chilled. To brew it cold, you can steep Kukicha in cool water for a few hours to enjoy a refreshing, healthy, and slightly sweet iced tea.
Japanese Tea to Drink This Summer
Whether you’re looking to cool down, stay hydrated, or simply enjoy a moment of calm, these Japanese teas offer the perfect blend of refreshment and wellness for the summer months.
Naturally low in caffeine and full of health-supporting properties, Japanese tea is the ideal choice for mindfully beating the heat and embracing the season.
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