A Rare and Distinguished Tea from Ureshino

This Ikigaicha Tamaryokucha is crafted from the prized Tsuyuhikari cultivar, offering a tea of remarkable depth and complexity. Produced in Ureshino, Saga Prefecture, the birthplace of Tamaryokucha, it represents centuries of artisanal expertise combined with the unique character of a modern, high-grade cultivar.

What Makes Tamaryokucha Unique

• Leaf Shape: Unlike Sencha, which is tightly rolled into straight needle-like leaves, Tamaryokucha is curled into comma shapes. This softer rolling method preserves delicate leaf compounds and alters extraction during brewing.

• Flavor Effect: The curled shape enhances roundness and sweetness in the liquor, giving Tamaryokucha a mellow, less astringent profile compared to standard Sencha.

• Health Benefits: The lighter rolling helps retain a high concentration of amino acids (theanine) and catechins, delivering both umami richness and strong antioxidant activity.

The Tsuyuhikari Advantage

The Tsuyuhikari cultivar is a rare cross between Asatsuyu (known as “natural Gyokuro” for its umami richness) and Shizu7132 (famed for its floral aroma). This genetic heritage contributes:

• Flavor:

  • From Asatsuyu: deep umami, creamy body, and brilliant green liquor.

  • From Shizu7132: delicate floral and herbal notes with refined freshness.

• Balance: The result is a smooth, creamy, and aromatic Sencha style with a long, elegant finish — more complex than common Yabukita-based teas.

• Nutritional Profile: High in L-theanine (calming, stress-reducing) and balanced with catechins (antioxidant, metabolism-supporting), Tsuyuhikari offers both mental clarity and physical well-being.

Flavor & Aroma Profile

• Liquor: Deep, luminous emerald with exceptional clarity.

• Aroma: Elegant floral bouquet with hints of orchard blossoms and fresh herbs.

• Taste: A harmonious interplay of vibrant umami, creamy depth, delicate sweetness, and soft vegetal tones.

• Finish: Long, silky, and refreshing — leaving a clean yet lingering impression.