Kagoshima Tsuyuhikari Organic Fukamushi Sencha

I came across this tea again during a recent trip to Japan, after tasting through many farms that focus on single-cultivar production. Even among so many well-made teas, this one immediately stood out. I still remember the flavors I loved back in 2018, and this Tsuyuhikari brought that memory back the moment I brewed it.

This Kagoshima Tsuyuhikari Organic Fukamushi Sencha shows a vibrant, cloudy green liquor and a clean, composed profile. The flavor is beautifully balanced—never overly umami-driven, instead leaning toward gentle florals, fresh green vegetables, and a soft, natural sweetness reminiscent of steamed pumpkin or young squash. The cup feels smooth and steady, with a clarity that makes it easy to return to throughout the day.

The aroma opens with a soft, salty-green note and finishes crisp and elegant. As the tea cools, a light floral aftertaste lingers, lifting the mood without ever becoming heavy or aggressive. The energy it provides is clean and focused, present but never sharp.

Made from the Tsuyuhikari cultivar (つゆひかり, “dew light”), a cross between Asatsuyu and Shizuoka 7132, this tea is known for its bright color and refined fragrance. The fukamushi (deep-steamed) processing softens the leaves further, creating a fuller body, smoother texture, and deeper green appearance than asamushi sencha.

What completes this tea is how it’s grown. Cultivated organically, without pesticides or chemical inputs, it reflects the clarity of its environment. Organic tea remains rare in Japan, but Kagoshima continues to lead the way. The result is a tea that feels honest and pure, leaving a clean impression that quietly stays with you long after the cup is empty.

— Leo

How to brew it:

Use 5g of tea in a 150–180ml kyusu or shiboridashi.

• For a sweeter, more floral brew: 160°F for 30 seconds.
• For deeper, more complex notes: 175°F for just 10–15 seconds, filling your teapot about 60% full.

No need to rinse the leaves—this is Japanese sencha, so the first brew is usually the best. You can expect a good 3–4 infusions from one session.

This is a great pick if you’re looking for something that’s both flavorful and clean—a tea that feels alive, and has a unique profile.