Kyushu is known as one of Japan's leading tea-producing regions. The tea grown in each region is full of diverse charms woven together by the climate and traditions. In this article, we will visit famous tea-producing areas across Fukuoka, Saga, and Kagoshima, and introduce their characteristics and how to enjoy tea.
Fukuoka Prefecture: Yame – Home of high-quality Gyokuro
Yame City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is the production area of Gyokuro, a high-quality tea that represents Japan. Yame tea's Gyokuro is highly regarded both in Japan and overseas for its rich flavor, sweetness, and silky smooth texture. Yame's tea fields not only create beautiful scenery, but also provide healing to visitors. At local tea workshops, you can learn how to carefully brew Gyokuro and enjoy tastings, allowing you to experience the charm of Yame tea through all five senses.
Saga Prefecture: Ureshino and Imari – The fragrant flavor of Kamairicha tea
Ureshino – The fusion of skin-beautifying hot springs and the pan-frying method
Ureshino City is famous for its hot springs, which are one of the "Three Great Skin-beautifying Hot Springs in Japan," and is also famous as a major producer of "Ureshino Tea." Ureshino Tea is characterized by its fragrant flavor achieved through the pan-roasting method, and its light, refreshing aftertaste. Among them, Tama Ryokucha is a masterpiece with a unique shape and aroma. Why not enjoy a healing trip unique to Ureshino, where you can enjoy hot springs and tea together?
Imari – High-quality tea grown with the blessings of the mountains
Imari City produces a type of tea called "Imari tea." Grown in the clear air and cool climate of the mountainous region, the tea is characterized by its deep flavor and rich aroma. The fragrant tea made using the pan-roasting method and the first tea made from soft new buds are sure to captivate visitors.
Kagoshima Prefecture: Chiran, Kirishima, and Tanegashima – A variety of flavors born from the bounty of the tropics
Chiran – Chiran tea with exquisite depth and sweetness
Chiran City is a tea-growing region blessed with a warm climate and volcanic ash soil. Chiran tea is characterized by its rich flavor and slightly sweet aftertaste, and is highly popular among tea lovers throughout the country. The tea leaves grown in Chiran's vast tea fields will add a touch of luxury to your daily cup of tea.
Kirishima – Famous peak tea with a refreshing aroma
Kirishima City produces Kirishima tea, taking advantage of the unique climate of the high-altitude tea fields. Its refreshing aroma and smooth flavor are truly a gift from nature. A cup of tea enjoyed while looking at the majestic view of the Kirishima mountain range is something special.
Tanegashima – The fastest new tea and fragrant pan-fried tea
Blessed with a warm tropical climate, Tanegashima is the place where new tea is shipped out the earliest in Kyushu. The tea leaves, which are roasted in a pan, have a unique fragrant flavor and can be enjoyed as a taste that can only be found in this region.
Kyushu Tea – A Journey to Experience Its Charm
If you travel around Kyushu's tea-producing regions, you will encounter different flavors and scenery in each region. The rich Gyokuro of Yame, the fragrant Kamairicha of Ureshino, the deep flavor of Chiran and Kirishima, and the fresh taste of new tea from Tanegashima. Kyushu tea truly embodies the climate and culture of the region.
A trip where you can enjoy the soothing scenery of tea fields and experience tea at a local tea studio will be a special experience that will enrich your soul. Why not step into the world of Kyushu tea on your next day off?
Enjoy a luxurious moment for your body and mind with Kyushu tea. We look forward to your visit!
