Japan Premium Gyokuro Tokiwa

A rare treat for the palate

Of Shade and SunInterestingly, more than half of the tea produced in Japan is classified as green tea. But only a fraction of it can be called Premium Gyokuro. This tea is grown under special shading conditions, which give it a rich umami flavor and a smooth finish.

Tokiwa: The Evergreen

The word “Tokiwa” means “evergreen” and reflects the deep green color of this special tea. One sip and you’ll understand why.

Our Premium Gyokuro Tokiwa comes from Kagoshima Prefecture in Japan, which is known for its high-quality teas. The tea is harvested on the island of Kyushu, where the particularly nutrient-rich volcanic soil and warm climate allow it to be among the first teas of the year.

Gyokuro Tokiwa is characterized by its emerald-green, needle-shaped leaves and delights with a delicate aroma as well as a unique, slowly unfolding, sweet “umami” flavor. The ancient Japanese word “Tokiwa” describes the evergreen color of nature and is thus a fitting name for this exquisite green tea.

To preserve the special flavor of Gyokuro Tokiwa, the tea plants are shaded for at least three weeks before harvest, resulting in a higher concentration of chlorophyll and amino acids in the tea leaves. The tea leaves are then carefully harvested, processed, and rolled by hand.