Japanese tea is in a class of its own! At least that is how I feel about it.
If you are a seasoned loose leaf tea drinker, you are no doubt aware of the plentiful varieties that are processed in this country full of tea drinkers.
Japan happens to be a very large producer of green tea. However, this country is not on the list for "most world tea production"...the keyword being world. Why?
Even though Japan is a big green tea growing nation, it is also a big green tea drinking nation! Tea in Japan is probably just as popular as coffee is in America.
Only about two percent of the tea that is grown and processed in Japan is exported. Japanese tea is a prized native brew enjoyed by many of the people living here. But this does not mean you too cannot enjoy a cup either...there is plenty to go around. :)
One of the most common varieties is Sencha green tea. I mention it first because it happens to be my favorite Japanese tea!
Sencha, which means "roasted tea", has a full-bodied taste that green tea drinkers love! There are different grades of this tea, with some varieties costing hundreds of dollars for just one pound!
The taste of this tea may take some getting used to for folks who are new to green tea, but once your palate opens up, this naturally relaxing green tea may become one of your favorites as well. It's one of mine!
Gyokuro is another Japanese green tea that can reach expensive highs, as well as gunpowder, yet another popular variety.
Health benefits of Japanese tea
You know doubt of read that drinking tea is good for you, especially white and green types!
Some benefits understood to be obtained from green tea are:
Improves the immune system and fights off infections
Lowers cholesterol and blood pressure
May help folks lose weight
Helps prevent the growth and reproduction of tumors
Has shown evidence in destroying free radicals
Promotes healthier looking skin and a healthy smile!
A final note about Japanese green tea is like all tea, it is recommended that you brew it from loose leaves for maximum benefits and taste!
Years of enjoyment await for folks who prepare any type of tea the right way.
