The Okawa region of Shizuoka, Japan lies in the upper stream of the Warashina River. The Zen monk Shoichi Kokushi was born here and introduced tea seeds to the Okawa region in 1244. Okawa is one of the most revered and oldest Hon Yama Sencha producing villages. It is also one of the highest elevation tea farming areas in all of Japan and is famous for its elegant, deep-tasting, and aromatic sencha.

The high mountain region of Okawa is surrounded by dense forests, clear air, and pure river streams. The tea gardens are fed by sweeping clouds and mists from the Japanese Alps.

Our friend and producer in Okawa, Rikio-san, lives in a remote area of Okawa at a higher elevation. Situated above most of the region’s tea farms, it is the perfect place for organic tea. His home and several tea gardens are located within natural forest buffer zones that shroud the area from industrial pollution. Rikio-san mainly produces classic Hon Yama Sencha.

Based on Rikio-san’s artisan farming skills and unique tea terroir, we commissioned this special batch of high mountain Hon Yama Sencha. This micro-lot was harvested in the spring and aged in the mountains for several months. We recommend brewing this tea in a Hohin to fully savor its creamy mouthfeel and notes of snap pea, mochi, and alpine freshness.