A guide to roasted green tea in Japan

Most matcha lovers may have encountered it Hojicha – Roasted green tea with reddish brown and smooth nutty flavor. Think of Hojicha as the quiet cousin of Matcha. While it is not well-known or glitzy, it is uniquely delicious and nourishing. For those who want to experience the charm of Hojicha toast during their time in Tokyo, we have compiled some places to try out Hojicha drinks and sweets.

What is Hojicha?

It is widely believed that Hojicha originated in the 1920s. Unlike other steamed Japanese green teas, Hojicha is roasted. The roasting process of tea creates the reddish brown color of Hojicha, earthy aroma, and reduces the catechin and caffeine content of the tea. Hojicha has less bitterness than most green teas and is a popular choice for children and the elderly.

When it comes to flavor, Hojicha is smoky and nutty with a sweet taste. Its gentle profile and smooth aftertaste make it easy to drink throughout the day. Thanks to the neutral taste, it goes well with desserts and savory meals. That’s why you often find it in sushi restaurant chains.

Especially in the fall, you can usually find Hojicha-flavored drinks and desserts in cafes and restaurants throughout Japan. Its toast flavor complements milk, cream and even chocolate, making it a versatile ingredient in seasonal snacks.

The best Hojicha drinks in Tokyo

Hachiya (sendagaya)

Hachiya is a cafe specializing in Japanese tea, offering classic tea drinks with a modern flavor. Their choices include matcha latte, black sesame latte, and of course hojicha latte. With your drinks you can also enjoy traditional Japanese desserts Anmitsu (Jelly, Fruit and Red Bean Paste).

Tea bucket

Tea Bucket (ebisu)

The tea is atmospheric and comfortable, and is a Japanese tea stall designed to introduce the beauty of traditionally brewed Japanese tea through innovative beverages. They offer amazing matcha and hojicha lattes, as well as creative tea cocktails and golf balls.

Provided by Nana’s Green Tea

Nana’s Green Tea (all over Tokyo)

Nana’s Green Tea is located throughout Japan and is a famous tea and cafe chain. If you are a beginner in the tea world, you can’t go wrong with Nana. The store’s menu features outstanding Hojicha options such as iced Hojicha latte, milk soft coffee and Hojicha Latte with Hojicha Jelly, brown sugar syrup and whipped cream.

Provided by the Mojie people

The best works dessert in Tokyo

Monu people (ningyocho)

Unlike most tea-based establishments, the Monu specializes in the workplace. Founded in 1914, this established a wide variety of work for tea, strength, drinks and candies. As the brand’s own tea is emitted, the desserts here have a unique and earthy flavor of work. Try Morinoen’s work parfait or Anmitu – you won’t lose it.

Collect ° (asakusa)

With its stylish logo and beautiful refreshment desserts, Safn° is an essential for matcha and Hoji Chata lovers. Their hojicha pudding forgoto will die–rich with the nutty flavor of hojicha and balanced by the creamy texture of vanilla ice cream. While this particular item may not always be on the menu based on the season, the store always has a range of delicious alternatives.

Courtesy of Nakamura Tokichi

Nakamura Tokichi (Ginza)

Although Nakamura Tokichi is known for its incredible matcha products, the brand also offers delicious Hojicha snacks. Hojicha Tea Jelly and Maruto parfait are both good choices. The parfait, especially the toasted aroma of Hojigo is perfectly blended with sweet cream, moor coffee and red bean paste.

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