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Jo******, 2025-04-19 04:57 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Upon opening the tin, I am greeted by a deep aroma that evokes a decadent milk custard. The color is a vibrant green that reminds me of the first young leaves of Spring. The umami is full of depth and is reminiscent of a savory miso. The sweetness is one that my tongue reads as sweet dark chocolate. Another amazing matcha from Kanbayashi Shunsho.
Ng******, 2025-04-18 12:56 JST, AUSTRALIA
My forever repurchase, might be better if Sazen allows me to buy multiple stocks of this, so far this is the only one that I consider repurchase from Sazen, but living on the other side of the globe so I had to buy more from other brands to buy this. I drink matcha latte with this and dairy milk, it's flavourful, creamy, very creamy, bitterness is nowhere to be found, smells like cheese, beautiful and satisfying, a solid 10
Entry grade usucha (thin matcha), also perfect for flavoring soft drinks
Ma******, 2025-04-13 20:31 JST, CANADA
Makes a really nice latte, especially considering the price. Not too bitter or tart, and still has some depth. I liked it more using water closer to 83-85°C. It's just not the most vibrant green (but it's still pretty green). Solid choice for an affordable everyday matcha- I'll definitely look to get this one again.
Ly******, 2025-04-12 08:38 JST, CANADA
Creamy, nutty and no bitterness. I drink my matcha as a latte. I didn’t have high expectations as this was the lowest offering from the brand. When I first tried it, it was definitely a surprise! I’ve tried more expensive matchas that had a bitter aftertaste but this one didn’t have that. Upon opening I could already smell some nuttiness and some dark chocolate. When drank as a latte, I could taste pistachio notes.
Uji matcha from Kanbayashi Shunsho for making usucha or matcha drinks
An******, 2025-04-08 05:29 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Matsu no Shiro Matcha is incredible — smooth, delicate, and naturally sweet with a beautiful, vibrant green color that speaks to its quality. It’s perfect for daily enjoyment or special tea moments. Shipping was impressively fast, and the customer service was top-notch: prompt, courteous, and clearly passionate about their product. Everything from the packaging to the taste shows care and craftsmanship. I’m so glad I found this matcha and will definitely be coming back for more!
An******, 2025-04-08 05:28 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Ryo no Kage Matcha is truly exceptional. The quality is evident from the moment you open the package — a vibrant green color, fresh aroma, and a smooth, rich taste with no bitterness. It’s perfect for both traditional whisked matcha and lattes. I was also really impressed with the fast shipping; my order arrived quicker than expected and was carefully packaged. On top of that, the customer service was outstanding — friendly, responsive, and genuinely helpful. You can tell they care about both their product and their customers. I’ll definitely be ordering again!
An******, 2025-04-08 05:27 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Aya no Mori Matcha exceeded all expectations! The matcha itself is vibrant, smooth, and full of rich, authentic flavor — no bitterness, just pure umami goodness. On top of that, the shipping was super fast, and the customer service was excellent. They were responsive, friendly, and clearly care about their product and customers. You can tell you're getting premium quality from start to finish. I’ll definitely be ordering again!
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Pi******, 2025-03-30 03:43 JST, POLAND
Exactly what you would expect from Marukyu Koyamen's "Principal Matcha" category. It goes incredibly well with milk, has its own sweetness to the taste, and is very well-rounded, and smooth, without any overdeveloped flavors. I would recommend it to anyone who's trying to check out matcha and has a problem with umami scents etc. Incredibly
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Pi******, 2025-03-30 03:43 JST, POLAND
Exactly what you would expect from Marukyu Koyamen's "Principal Matcha" category. It goes incredibly well with milk, has its own sweetness to the taste, and is very well-rounded, and smooth, without any overdeveloped flavors. I would recommend it to anyone who's trying to check out matcha and has a problem with umami scents etc. Incredibly
Entry grade usucha (thin matcha), also perfect for flavoring soft drinks
Me******, 2025-03-27 11:05 JST, MEXICO
Nice color. Not the smoothest powder but definitely not gritty (compared to other matchas I have tried). As an usucha it has a very appealing nutty and cocoa-like smell, mild bitterness, slight toasty notes, very slight nutty notes and a long but muted aftertaste; it was also a bit creamy. As a latte it is on the mellow side, with enhanced nuttiness, slight umami and no bitterness; it stands up well to syrups while remaining on the mellow side. Considering its price, I think it is not a bad option for making lattes. If you want it for usucha, I would recommend choosing something higher in the lineup. All in all, I think what this matcha offers is on par with its price; as long as you have that in mind, I think you will enjoy it.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Me******, 2025-03-27 11:14 JST, MEXICO
I forgot to add that as an usucha it is a bit astringent; it is one of the few matchas where I felt the astringency on my throat rather than on my tongue. For that reason I didn´t drink it much as an usucha. The astringency is low but noticeable.
Very delicious tea between koicha (thick tea) and usucha (thin tea) grade
Ri******, 2025-03-26 21:21 JST, JAPAN
Scent: sweet aroma with some sour notes, almost fruity. When I used it for making usacha, some slight notes of sweet and sour remained, but they were not very pronounced. Full-bodied umami with no real hint of a dry taste or bitterness. Very interesting matcha
Sh******, 2025-03-24 02:05 JST, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
I made it as usucha it tastes great and refreshing however when i tried it as a latte not so much. i would recommend having it alone not mixed with anything else. You can taste the floral notes and the grassiness from the matcha.
Sh******, 2025-03-24 01:59 JST, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
I was really excited to try it and i think it’s extremely overhyped some of the matcha from kanbayashi shunsho is cheaper and tastes a lot better than this one. I would recommend sazummikashi and yazuriha and im not sure of the spelling you can try those before purchasing this one. This matcha doesnt have a lot of complexity. I think Its good for beginners however not for experienced matcha drinkers.
Th******, 2025-03-23 07:58 JST, UNITED KINGDOM
The colour of this matcha was vibrant, and I was pleasantly surprised by the creamy and nutty taste too. As an usucha it was lovely and as a latte it was light yet flavoursome. I would definitely buy this again as it's affordable and perfect as an everyday matcha.
Ke******, 2025-03-15 12:04 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This black tea is a lot different than the black teas I have drank from China or Taiwan. It has that nice golden copper like color. The flavor has notes of spice in it and what I considered a citrus-y taste too. Combined it reminded me of this Thai spicy instant noodle's soup from a brand called MAMA. It is delicious.
Ke******, 2025-03-15 11:59 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This has a very unique taste. At first I didn't quite like it when i brew it for 10seconds to 30seconds. It was subtly sweet and has a grassy taste to it. Reminded me of the Vietnamese pennyworth drink that my parents makes at home. The 2nd time I made this drinks, I accidentally brew it for 2minutes or more and it was a lot sweeter and cut the grassy taste quite a bit. Personally i like this over-brewed taste a lot more.
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Ke******, 2025-03-09 05:47 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
An interesting tea that comes out blue due o the butterfly-pea. It has a very calming flowery aroma. It is slightly sweet and and flowery to the taste. A good afternoon and evening tea if you want something that is caffeine-free.
Ke******, 2025-03-09 05:43 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A nice aromatic floral white tea. I did 2 steeping of this. The 1st steeping the tea cake didn't break up at all, so i steeped it a bit longer than instructed and it ended up good. Got a spice kick to it that was subtle. The 2nd steeping, the tea cake completely broke apart and reveal all the ingredients in it. It has a stronger floral aroma and taste with a stronger spice kick to it. I couldn't tell what kind of spice it was, but it was enjoyable.
Ca******, 2025-03-05 21:09 JST, CANADA
I bought 6 of these as gifts to friends & they all it. We were all beginners to matcha (this was our first actual ceremonial matcha) . I didn’t have anything else to compare it with, but when i finished this tin & bought a different matcha, i checked the tin again cause there were still powder left, it was so vibrant green and smells nutty. I recommend this for matcha beginners
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Me******, 2025-03-04 08:53 JST, MEXICO
Nice color, a bit chalky (not too much tho) and with a nutty smell. As an usucha it has a soft profile; it´s a bit creamy, with moderate umami, a low but lingering bitterness and a very slight nutty flavor. As a latte it is very mellow, with an enhanced nuttiness and low umami notes; I noticed that syrups very easily overpower this matcha, so I recommend not using sweeteners with this one. I didn´t notice any vanilla notes. It does have an unrefined yet enjoyable profile. I really liked drinking it as an unsweetened latte because of the enhanced nuttiness, but I had to use more powder than usual. It´s not a high complexity matcha, but considering its price, I think it´s not a bad option. This matcha is nice for lattes as long as you like a mellow profile and don´t mind not using syrups.
Ma******, 2025-03-03 11:50 JST, CANADA
pretty solid usucha. as promised, there is a bit of sweetness and nuttiness, but also a nice amount of umami. there is a bit of astringency as well as some bitterness even when prepared at 85°C, but it's not too bad. with milk, the flavors don't get drowned out which is nice. I would recommend giving it a try if you like matchas with a bit of umami with a bit of nuttiness. but if you want something more creamy and less bitter/umami, i would recommend konomi no shiro instead (right above this one in their portfolio)
Di******, 2025-02-25 03:55 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
For the price its okay. I found this matcha to have a very gritty texture and the taste is noticeably lower quality compared to this brand's other options. I didn't hate it, and the price is very fair, but I probably wouldn't buy it if you want a complex matcha with depth in its flavor.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Ja******, 2025-02-22 10:24 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I’ve never a truer product description than the one that Horii Shichimeien uses for this product. There is indeed a savoriness that does not need any sweeteners whatsoever, along with beautiful floral notes that remind me of sitting beside a meadow. I enjoy the matcha by preparing it in a form that is between an usucha and koicha, and the high levels of l-theanine are VERY apparent… Sort of like an espresso shot—only better!
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Ha******, 2025-02-17 04:51 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Slightly bitter, the slightest umami, and somewhat astringent, i think this is good for beginners. Although this matcha is supposed to be more bitter under colder temperatures, i still enjoy this one cold whisked with milk, although it is slightly more grainy than other matchas i've tried. I would get this one again if it comes back in stock!
Me******, 2025-02-12 10:27 JST, MEXICO
Nice color but gritty texture. As an usucha it has a low but lingering bitterness with light umami notes and a slightly nutty finish. As a koicha it has the same type of bitterness, more noticeable -but still mild- umami notes and a slight toasty flavor. It has low astringency, almost unnoticeable if you don´t pay close attention. As a latte it had a mellow grassy taste with no umami nor bitterness; I didn´t notice any nutty nor toasty notes. When prepared with 80°C water its bitterness reminded me to that of burnt toast; when using 85°C water its bitterness seemed like that of 80% dark chocolate. This matcha is definitely full-bodied, but it has a very short finish, which left me hanging for more with every sip. Its low but lingering bitterness may be a downside for some people. If you don´t enjoy some bitterness in your matcha this may not be for you. It is a solid option for a daily usucha, but it´s not really up there in terms of koicha. Personally it´s not a bad matcha, but neither a memorable one.
Da******, 2025-02-11 17:39 JST, CZECH REPUBLIC
I confirm that the description of the tea by the seller exactly matches the taste. (I use rather medium-hard water. Also glazed teapot - does not affect the taste.). The roastiness is interesting, the sweetness is pronounced and stays in the mouth for a long time. The taste is a bit atypical for sencha, but quite addictive. When using banko-yaki, the roasted nut flavor is accentuated, but I prefer a neutral teapot.
Entry grade tea for making usucha (thin tea) that is well-liked among matcha beginners
Th******, 2025-02-04 19:34 JST, UNITED KINGDOM
First time trying this matcha product, and so far I love it. The colour was vibrant; the slight hint of vanilla, sweetness and creaminess was just what I was after. I followed the preparation instructions and heated the water to 80°C, then I whisked it well, which created a lovely foam. I also had this as a latte, and it was delicious. I could definitely drink this every day.
Me******, 2025-02-01 09:11 JST, MEXICO
Nice color. As an usucha it has a slight seaweedy smell, it´s a rather fragrant matcha; at first it has a slight tartness, which is followed by medium umami notes that feel as if they are hidden behind the tartness (I hope that makes sense) and finishes with a seaweedy aftertaste (not unpleasant) on the back of the tongue; it has practically no astringency. As a latte it´s quite one-dimensional if you compare it with its usucha form, it has a light grassy taste with a teeny tiny bit of umami that I only perceived when drinked hot; I also had to use more powder than usual to achieve the strong matcha flavor I like. Personally I think this matcha should be mainly used for making usucha, because all its little nuances are completely lost when milk is added, so I wouldn´t recommend it if you only want to use it for lattes.
Premium Japanese green tea from the Kansai Tea Competition
Ma******, 2025-01-30 16:42 JST, CANADA
as usucha, it is a little bit bitter and astringent (but not too unpleasantly so), nutty and a bit grassy. it's not very creamy but a rather more light and refreshing usucha. the color was not as vibrant as the other matchas that are higher up in their portfolio but it's still pretty green compared to a supermarket or amazon matcha at the same or even higher price. i enjoyed it quite a bit as a latte- the astringency almost disappears and the bitterness gets toned down a lot, and i found it to be even better with a bit of sweetener. it stands out pretty well against milk because of the slight bitterness without being too unpleasant. if you're a beginner and looking for an affordable matcha only for lattes, not for usucha, and don't mind a bit of bitterness, id say this one isn't bad and definitely worth a try.
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Jo******, 2025-01-30 01:07 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Upon opening the tin, a wonderful aroma of creamy custard greets me. A very brief astringent note is met upon sipping, that gives way to a pleasant umami that my palette reads as a savory tomato. There is also a hint of natural sweetness that is reminiscent of fresh sweet asparagus. Overall, a very good first impression from Kanbayashi Shunsho.
ze******, 2025-01-29 10:39 JST, INDONESIA
nutty and creamy matcha, its good as usucha and latte, has little bit tart aftertase
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Li******, 2025-02-17 21:33 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Es un buen matcha en general, pero a mi personalmente me costo mucho espumar aunque seguí todas las instrucciones, no volvería a pedir.
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
The highest grade usucha (thin tea) or the enty grade koicha (thick tea) in Hokoen range
Ra******, 2025-01-25 10:51 JST, ALGERIA
This matcha is a delight for the senses! The aroma is captivating, fresh, vibrant, and invigorating. The taste is incredibly light, with a "cloud-like" sensation that makes it feel almost ethereal. It’s best enjoyed as usucha, where its delicate flavors truly shine. However, when made into a latte, the taste becomes too faint for my liking, overshadowed by the milk. Overall, a fantastic option for those who love subtlety, but not ideal if you prefer a bolder matcha experience in lattes.
Fresh green bamboo tea whisk for celebrating the New Year
Je******, 2025-01-23 23:44 JST, CANADA
I rate it a 4/5. it's pretty good honestly it's just too light for me and I find it overrated. It has a slight nutty almond like flavor and I can enjoy it, I prefer it at matsu no shiro as the flavor profile is stronger but I prefer stronger matchas. I see it as a good starting point and it has a very good price.
Do******, 2025-01-23 13:16 JST, JAPAN
A very delicious and interesting tea! The flavors of the flowers complement each other, and the color is beautiful. When I add a few drops of lemon juice the bright blue color turns purplish pink, and the flavor also matches the flowers. The second infusion has a light, sky blue color which turns baby pink with the lemon. A really fun tea to show kids, too, and they can drink it because it is caffeine free.
Fresh green bamboo tea whisk for celebrating the New Year
Th******, 2025-01-14 09:39 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I absolutely loved the advent calendar. So much that I bought another one after receiving the first one! I look forward each morning to a different and delightful surprise. The English-Japanese Tea Guidebook adds depth to the experience, and the QR-code was so helpful. Perfectly packaged in a beautiful gift box, it’s ideal for treating yourself or someone special. I'll buy next year's for sure! Shipping was so fast too!
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Entry grade tea for making usucha (thin tea) that is well-liked among matcha beginners
Special tea whisk with extra long handle and small bloom for tea mugs • approx. 42-tine chasen
Ma******, 2025-01-09 17:49 JST, CANADA
it's so good as a latte- not too light at all. i liked it as a koicha and it was also good as an usucha although slightly bitter but not too unpleasantly so. the description is quite accurate, although i didn't get a bunch of umami really (or maybe i just don't know how to notice it), but i still really liked it. this matcha might also become a daily matcha for me 👍
Me******, 2025-01-08 11:39 JST, MEXICO
Nice flavor profile. As an usucha it has a noticeable but mild bitterness with a hint of a peanut-like flavor and light umami notes. The peanut-like flavor is enhanced when prepared as a latte, especially when prepared hot (I should also add that I do not sweeten my lattes). At first I was rather skeptical about this matcha really having a "peanut flavor" but I was proven wrong; just don´t expect it tasting like straigth up peanuts haha. As an usucha it is a nice pairing to some pastry/dessert because of its bitterness and because it´s not a high-complexity matcha. As a latte I prefer to enjoy it by itself.
Je******, 2025-01-07 01:04 JST, CANADA
The taste of that matcha is pretty light. It's very smooth, vegetal and little to no astringency in my opinion. It's not umami or bitter at all. It's good as usucha and lattes, but the tastes lowers in soy milk (it's still pretty good). I'd give it a 6/10 because I prefer stronger matcha, but it's overall a good matcha. It froths nicely and has a very vibrant color. It's an entry level matcha and the price is super reasonable.
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Ma******, 2025-01-06 18:01 JST, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
This matcha is top one in my list at the moment. It’s creamy as I personally like it in lattes. The flavor is incredible, very umami, slightly sweet but I think it’s the vanilla notes in it. I would purchase the 200g once I finished the tin I have now!
Ma******, 2025-01-06 17:58 JST, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
It is a great matcha in terms of flavor but personally I do like thick creamy matcha. I found this matcha light as a latte although it’s very flavorful. I would recommend it if you are a matcha beginner or you prefer a lighter to medium bodied matcha (as Latte) This matcha is nutty and chocolaty and it smells the same 👌🏻.
Ma******, 2025-01-06 17:53 JST, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
This matcha powder is very unique! It’s an explosion of flavors in your mouth. Full-bodied, creamy and smooth. Very umami and tastes nutty and chocolatey. It smells floral dark chocolate, and nutty. It’s kinda complex to describe it but it’s incredible! I would buy it again and again.
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Va******, 2025-01-05 03:12 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Soumei is a solid matcha with creaminess and no bitter notes. I had this in a matcha latte (4g matcha, 35g water at 175 F, 1/2 cup oat milk, 13g agave) and I thoroughly enjoyed it. In a latte, this matcha has notes of spinach, creamy custard, and lots of nuttiness. I didn’t need much sweetener since the powder is naturally very sweet. My fiancé who does not like matcha agrees this was nice as well. For the price, I would not recommend this for matcha lattes. I’d stick with Biwa no Shiro or Aya no Mori.
ze******, 2025-01-04 22:46 JST, INDONESIA
the matcha has vibrant green colour, taste like green vegetal little bit grassy but in good way, i tried it as latte with oat milk mix with cashew milk no sweetener, for the price i think its good for beginner as its doesnt have bitterness at all
ze******, 2025-01-04 22:46 JST, INDONESIA
the matcha has vibrant green colour, taste like green vegetal little bit grassy but in good way, i tried it as latte with oat milk mix with cashew milk no sweetener, for the price i think its good for beginner as its doesnt have bitterness at all
Autumn Matcha Tea Blend from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Ma******, 2024-12-26 09:25 JST, CANADA
i liked it enough at its price. a bit on the lighter side, but it also has some nice smoothness and some nuttiness. i also bdidn't really get much bitterness or astringency. it's pretty good with oat milk as a latte but if you like a stronger flavor maybe use a bit more than your usual. the powder is a bit coarser than other matchas ive seen but it's still pretty good as a daily drinking matcha. considering buying it again :)
Sh******, 2024-12-26 07:22 JST, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Good. However you need to add increase the matcha to really taste it with milk. I like it i might order again.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Sh******, 2025-04-19 01:45 JST, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
I actually made it with the correct temperature and its reallyy good and it became one of my top matcha. I love it
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
An******, 2024-12-21 13:14 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Perfect, love the design of the bowl and the versatility of the bamboo and the glossy matcha container with the nice design on it high quality love it. Thank you this is a perfect matcha set.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
An******, 2024-12-28 02:51 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Thank you for sending the guide booklet and taking the time to email me with my concern. Very quick shipping.
Na******, 2024-12-19 23:44 JST, SINGAPORE
i find that this matcha requires more powder/lesser milk as compared to ogurayama/shikibu no mukashi, as it is milder without a particularly strong flavour profile. still, i would be happy to drink this, but i think there are better offerings from this brand
Na******, 2024-12-19 23:42 JST, SINGAPORE
this is a strong and full-bodied matcha! it's very umami but in a pleasant way, and the sweetness and creaminess helps to round out the flavour. it holds up well in milk without losing any flavour. highly recommended if you like a strong and punchy matcha
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
Mi******, 2024-12-17 12:30 JST, BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
Upon opening the can, I was hit with a sweet scent from the matcha powder. I drank it first as an usacha and found it to have a nutty note. As a latte, the nutty flavours enhanced (especially when paired with oat milk) and the nutty flavours were reminiscent of macadamia nuts. There was also a sweet lingering taste which I enjoyed. For the price point, this is a really great daily drinking matcha option if you like nuttier flavours in your matcha. The matcha is still strong enough to shine through the milk but if you like your matcha to punch you in the face, this wouldn't be your first pick. Though I really enjoyed this blend a lot and will repurchase again soon!
Me******, 2024-12-17 10:29 JST, MEXICO
The flavor profile provided in the description is pretty accurate, it is a well balanced matcha with a pretty decent color. Unfortunately, I didn´t enjoy its tartness, so this matcha wouldn´t be my first pick for a daily usucha. It also gets bitter rather quickly as the water cools down, so controling the water temperature is a must with this one in my opinion. When prepared as a latte it was nice, it stood up well against the milk, so it´s a solid choice for making lattes considering the price. I don´t think I will buy it again, but that doesn´t mean its a bad product, it just doesn´t align with my taste preferences.
Uji matcha from Kanbayashi Shunsho for making usucha or matcha drinks
Je******, 2024-12-17 08:38 JST, CANADA
The color was nice and it had a nice froth. Far from the worse I've tried but the flavor is way too subtle for my taste. It gets lost in the milk in a latte. as usucha it has more flavors, but as a latte it has a subtle almond milk like flavor (I used the same milk I use in all my lattes which is unsweetened soy milk with different matchas and usually the flavor is still strong). it might just be that I'm too used to higher grade and I see how it's an entry level matcha. I'll probably use it for tiramisu or other baking but not for latte or usucha
Al******, 2024-12-16 19:17 JST, AUSTRALIA
It's weird how nuttiness is not listed as one of its notes, because this is one of the nuttiest matcha tat I've ever tasted - AND THE NUTTINESS IS NOT JUST BITTER! The specific nuttiness that I taste reminds me of toasted cashew nuts, and I (surprisingly) like it a lot! This matcha is also insanely creamy and silky. I don't really get the distinct sweetness that was listed in the description of this product, but I also don't get any bitterness. Amongst all the taste profiles, the ones that screams the most is the nuttiness and the umami. This matcha also froths really well, and has a bright green colour (but less bright than Babamukashi).
Japanese organic oolong tea with a floral fragrance and smoked aroma
Ka******, 2024-12-09 14:19 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
It's not the best ever, but it's far from bad. Solid matcha for the price. Kinda light in the taste department but for the price and availability, I'll keep coming back to it, especially because it's got a decent amount of caffeine in it.
Ta******, 2024-12-08 13:29 JST, CANADA
This tea is delicious, notes of roasted black bean, roasted nuts, steamed young vegetables, and a faint feeling of black currant somewhere in the background. currently serving this while a snowstorm is outside the window, and its perfect.
Ma******, 2024-12-06 09:00 JST, CANADA
I would like to preface this by saying I'm new to matcha so I'm not super familiar with all the flavors and I'm mostly just looking for what I think tastes good. When first opening, it was very fragrant and smelled really really good, and also had a beautiful green color. To me, this matcha is very nice as an usucha and still good even as a latte with oat milk. It's very nice tasting with the right balance of bitterness and matcha flavour. It tastes like what I would think good matcha tastes like if I hadn't had matcha before. That said, I don't get any specific flavour notes that stand out to me. It's more just a bit of everything; a hint of nuttiness, a hint of umami, some bitterness and a bit of sweetness. It's mostly just an overall nice "matcha" flavor that is still noticeable even after mixing with oat milk. I personally wouldn't get this one again, but only because I don't think anything specific about the flavour stood out to me and I'm trying to be a bit more experimental with flavours. But, it's definitely a solid one worth trying if you aren't looking for anything that skews too much in one direction for flavor profile, or if you are looking for a "safer" matcha to try that doesn't have any unpleasant notes with or without milk.
An******, 2024-12-05 04:45 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Wow, the box looks and feels luxurious and festive for the holidays, with an array of different cultures of teas included inside. Only thing is that I never received the tea guidebook. Other than that thank you so much. I’ve tried one of the teas and love how refreshing and flavor. Can’t wait to try the rest. Happy holidays to Sazen team and your hard work.
Al******, 2024-12-04 15:44 JST, AUSTRALIA
Babamukashi was prepared as a latte. The short version of this review is: If you're going to drink this matcha as a latte, it's better to choose a less expensive matcha cause there's not much difference anyway! My recommendation would be Sazumimukashi from the same brand. Okay, for the finer details. This matcha is very creamy with a touch of sweetness. The sweetness was not overbearing, but just there to accompany the creaminess. It's not as dark chocolate-y as MK's Isuzu or Sazumimukashi, but it stays in its lane as a matcha. This characteristic actuallu reminded me of Ippodo's Ummon, though it has less depth. I don't really get the taste of dried dates or greens, but it's definitely accurate in its description of custard cream-like aftertaste. I also find this to be the matcha that froths the best amongst all the matchas from this brand that I've tasted so far. There's also no bitterness and or astringency. The biggest downside is that I don't really think it's all that unique. Most of the characteristics that I tasted from this matcha can also be found in some of the less expensive matcha in their Koicha line. Still, if you want to splurge (and you miss Ippodo's Ummon), this might serve as a great alternative.
Ma******, 2024-12-03 08:09 JST, CANADA
I'm quite new to matcha so I was mostly trying to find a good matcha to use with lattes. This one is perfect for that. By itself, it's creamy, not bitter and not too astringent, but still has a nice matcha flavour after mixed with milk. The color was also a very nice green, although it skewed just a smidge yellow (but not dull). I definitely get more nuttiness (reminded me a bit of almonds cashews and peanuts?) than the notes of dark chocolate, but I know some people have also said the opposite. Although, I will admit the flavors definitely do stand out a lot more without milk. I only bought a 40g size but I'm definitely going to get a larger size once I'm done.
Ma******, 2024-12-03 07:58 JST, CANADA
Update: It's fine as usucha, and it's quite creamy, not bitter, with a flavor that reminds me a bit of spinach. However it's not that good with lattes. The flavor is extremely mild after mixing it with milk. Adding more powder just has it taste like leafy vegetable juice mixed in with milk. But I can't fault the description since it's quite accurate. The color is also very vibrant.
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COMMENTS (2) ▼
Co******, 2024-12-17 08:34 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The powder smells strongly vegetal but tastes more like dark chocolate when mixed with oatmilk and sweetener in a latte.
Ma******, 2024-12-19 16:10 JST, CANADA
maybe this matcha just isn't for me- i almost exclusively use oat milk (it was the first one i tried with this matcha) and couldn't get much of the matcha flavour i usually look for, still kind of tasting like vegetable juice to me. i also tried cashew milk and dairy, and didn't like that as much either. ive enjoyed it a lot more as usucha though or just iced with a bit of sweetener. ive also tried it with soda water and thought that was pretty nice as well.
Flavorful usucha (thin tea), excellence in everyday life, from Yamamasa Koyamaen
Na******, 2024-12-02 11:39 JST, SINGAPORE
great beginner matcha! its quite mild, creamy and slightly sweet, has a little bit of a nutty/toasted note as well. does not have any bitterness nor astringency, hence it may be good for those new to matcha! but personally i prefer something that has a bit more of an umami punch. still, this matcha is good and i will repurchase it again!
Ta******, 2024-11-30 17:09 JST, CANADA
great quality tea, hot wet leaf after rinse smells amazingly fruity and floral, tastes as if autumn and summer had a child. However this tea is just not to my taste, i prefer a custard creaminess note to my oolong that this tea just doesnt have. I still recommend this tea to those who like a very floral tea heavy in top notes, with a very fruity aftertaste.
Ri******, 2024-11-29 10:33 JST, JAPAN
I make usacha with this matcha powder. It has a rich umami flavour with just the slightest hint of dryness in the aftertaste (not really a bitter aftertaste). In more concentrated form, the matcha has a nut-like taste woven in. Very interesting taste, it whips up nice and foamy and has great colour!
Ma******, 2024-11-27 00:05 JST, CANADA
the flavor strongly reminds me of spinach? powder is very green and froths up really nicely, and it's not astringent, but it has a bit of bitterness and sweetness and tartness, reminiscent of spinach or arugula. it's very green tasting, which isn't bad, but not exactly what i thought it would taste like. as a latte with oat milk, the matcha flavour is completely gone, even when adding a lot of powder. would recommend strictly for usucha but not anything else.
Bi******, 2024-11-19 17:28 JST, FRANCE
Absolutely delicious! One of my new favorites. Definitely a more subtle matcha flavor, but the creaminess and smooth sweetness are just so good, especially in a latte with barista-style oat milk (about 150ml oat milk, 4g matcha powder, 45ml water at 80 Celsius). As usucha, I definitely got a stronger matcha flavor and a hint of grassiness with the creaminess, but still delicious. Will be repurchasing this one!
Flavorful usucha (thin tea), excellence in everyday life, from Yamamasa Koyamaen
The highest grade usucha (thin tea) or the enty grade koicha (thick tea) in Hokoen range
Me******, 2024-11-14 09:36 JST, MEXICO
It has a light vegetal flavor with a hint of bitterness. Not my favorite as a koicha, but pleasant nonetheless, with an almost unnoticeable umami. As a latte it was alright, it didn´t get lost in the milk but it wasn´t strong either, tasting mosly vegetal, which aligns with my taste preferences, so I found it pleasant. The only downside, personally, is that the powder isn´t too finely grounded; when prepared as a latte some matcha settled at the bottom of the cup. I thought it was a problem with my whisking technique, but this didn´t happen when preparing other matcha powders I own.
Al******, 2024-11-07 15:29 JST, AUSTRALIA
This is the best one among Kanbayashi Shunsho's Usucha line for me. Aya no Mori is very reminiscent of Marukyu Koyamaen's Isuzu, though not as rich. It delivers on the promises of full-bodiedness and creaminess, but I can't say it really gives any nuttiness. To me, it tastes more like dark chocolate, which is a flavour that I really like on matcha.
Ka******, 2024-11-04 01:31 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
As an enjoyer of iced matcha lattes, this matcha provided the perfect balance of umami, sweetness, and bitterness for me. It has a great bold flavor that doesn't get overpowered by milk and pairs well with a touch of sweetness. Nice and creamy as well. As an usucha, the flavors are smooth and well rounded. I ordered this in a 40g can but will be reordering in 100g quantity because I enjoyed it so much!
Mi******, 2024-11-03 01:29 JST, BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
This is a really affordable, daily drinking matcha latte! As an usucha, the flavours were nutty and not bitter at all. It was a bit astringent with the slightest taste of dark chocolate. Although enjoyable and very affordable for daily drinking, my taste palettes prefer a stronger and richer matcha flavour and this did not meet my expectations for it. This matcha is perfect for those just getting into matcha and want to have an affordable matcha powder that isn't too strong! When added with milk, the taste of the matcha does get overpowered slightly. But if you're new to matcha, this won't be a problem. However; for advance matcha enjoyers, you may need to add more grams than usual if you want to taste more matcha flavours. Great matcha for its price!
Ka******, 2024-10-27 01:50 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Fits the description pretty well. I found this to be one dimensional and lacking umami and other notes that give a matcha depth. It's sweet and creamy with no bitterness so I think this would be good for beginners. However, for my tastes I think this matcha is too simple. When I prepared it as a latte, the matcha flavor got lost and it was almost just like drinking sweetened milk. I'd personally give it 2.5-3 stars, but as I said, it does fit sazen's description well. If you're new to matcha, this would be a great place to start, especially if you're not a fan of bitterness, marine notes, or grassy notes.
Vi******, 2024-10-24 05:24 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I'm new to matcha, so I've been exploring matchas to see what notes are to my preferences. This made me realize that I am not the biggest fan of nutty matchas. I tasted it the most in the aftertaste, it reminded me of almond. When making this into a latte, I preferred a lesser concentration of the matcha with more milk and water so the nutty-ness wasn't too much for me. At a ratio with higher concentrations, I found it very astringent and bitter. While the lower concentration ratio cut down the astringency by a lot and gave it a more light, delicate flavor. If you like matchas with a nutty aftertaste, I'd recommend this.
Powdered green tea favoured by Koshin Sokei, the 12th generation grand tea master of Enshuryu
Za******, 2024-10-17 10:55 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Having now tried the complete principal line from Marukyu Koyamaen (MK), this matcha is definitely worth trying for those who are looking to branch out and try other blends. It’s bold, robust, umami, deep tasting and holds very well with milk as a latte. I find Marukyu Koyamaen to be more on the mellow end compared to other brands but this one definitely packs a punch. If you like a stronger matcha flavor give this one a try.
Ad******, 2024-10-16 18:50 JST, JAPAN
The design is elegant, compact, functional and the workmanship is great. My only gripe being that the insert for the incense may not be able to fit all types of incense sticks well such as longer, more slender incense sticks. A looser fit generally results in ash falling outside of the catchment area. It's not a big problem if you secure with some scotch tape or Blu-tack as I have done in the picture.
HEALING TEA BLEND >> • Eye hydration • Soothing for the throat • Good energy flow • Cooling effect
Ad******, 2024-10-14 16:57 JST, JAPAN
Flavor profile is very similar to Tie Guan Yin - mild, subtle floral, green oolong. In fact, if you already have Tie Guan Yin in your collection and are looking for a different experience, I would suggest choosing something else. I would recommend a longer first steep on the first brew (maybe 50 seconds) to allow the leaves to unfurl thereafter reducing the steeping time as necessary to achieve the preferred color of liquor.
Ol******, 2024-10-13 10:56 JST, UKRAINE
This mini-chawan, crafted in Japan in the traditional Minoyaki style, is absolutely fantastic, and the price is unbeatable. It's such a shame they've been out of stock for so long. I'd love to buy a few more in different colors. Sazen, please restock it soon!
Ol******, 2024-10-13 10:53 JST, UKRAINE
I absolutely love my Takayama chasens and have a large collection of bamboo whisks that I use for traditional matcha preparations like usucha and koicha. However, when I'm in the mood for something more modern or café-style—like cold whisk matcha or matcha lattes—this plastic whisk is my go-to. Since bamboo whisks should only be used with matcha and water, this handy plastic version is a real lifesaver!
An******, 2024-10-12 10:09 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
As an usucha it felt very mild and I noticed some hints of cocoa, there was some astringency but my mouth wasn't completely dry and I think this is a really great daily drinking option as either a usucha or latte. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is newer to matcha or prefers a lighter complexion.
An******, 2024-10-12 09:58 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
As a mid-tier offering from Yamamasa Koyamaen, this really did meet my standards, the umami & creaminess is what stood out to me the most, and I think this is something that holds up really well as a usucha and latte. If you are curious about this one, 100% try it! :)
Ka******, 2024-10-11 22:42 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
My new favorite matcha I've tried so far. Tasted geat and was bright green and fresh. The caffeine kick was a pleasant surprise. Ordered another 100g instantly. Now I'll be comparing everything else to this
Flavorful usucha (thin tea), excellence in everyday life, from Yamamasa Koyamaen
Ta******, 2024-10-01 09:57 JST, CANADA
Delicious tea, perfect as a koicha in my opinion, as the flavor is conplex yet not overpowering to the point of making one of my beginner guests uncomfortable, trying their first koicha. Like a verdant cream, tasting like eating a custard outside on a late summer day sitting in a lush meadow, or in a garden full of life.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Entry grade usucha (thin matcha), also perfect for flavoring soft drinks
Flavorful usucha (thin tea), excellence in everyday life, from Yamamasa Koyamaen
Entry grade usucha (thin matcha), also perfect for flavoring soft drinks
Flavorful usucha (thin tea), excellence in everyday life, from Yamamasa Koyamaen
Ca******, 2024-09-10 06:17 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
New to drinking matcha daily. I've been trying out all sorts of brands and levels to see which I like best. So far nothing stands out. For some odd reason, I'm getting a strong floral aftertaste. I had to mix in vanilla bean paste or black sesame paste to mask the matcha which is such a waste. I have a tea kettle that's boiling the water correctly. Am I doing something wrong? Is the floral after taste the grassy taste?
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Sazen Tea Office, 2024-09-10 15:54 JST, JAPAN
Thank you for your feedback. Matcha Wako, similarly to many matcha from Marukyu Koyamaen, is best enjoyed as usucha. It is mild and mellow and might get overpowered by milks. For latte, we suggest using Maki no Shiro. Yamamasa Koyamaen produces bolder matcha that pairs well with milk.
Al******, 2024-09-09 22:16 JST, AUSTRALIA
I think I can recommend this for people who have a milder(?) palette for matcha or people who are just introducing their taste buds to matcha. It definitely delivers on the very caramel-like taste that was promised. On the sweeter side with no bitterness and astringency at all. However, if you're looking for a rich matcha taste, this one is definitely not the product for you. If you drink matcha as lattes (like me), you might need to increase the amount of product to make your drink as that matcha taste wouldn't come through. I normally use 5 grams of matcha for a 500 mL drink, but I've been using 7-8 grams of Biwa no Shiro just for it to taste like matcha. I've also tried Ryo no Kage from this same brand, and I think it's safe to say that this is just the characteristic of their Usucha line.
In******, 2024-09-05 14:11 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
First thing: I'm very much a matcha beginner. I drink it mostly for the effects, not the taste; but I'm exploring to figure out if there's a matcha I also *enjoy* drinking. My first impression of Biwa no Shiro was of something like caramel, but without the overt sweetness. After that: sweet cream, backed up by a deep verdant flavor with no bitterness whatsoever - a bit like the smell of a forest when it rains. The finish is long, sugar-sweet, and - indeed - nutty, with more of that delicious caramel flavor. I want to drink this every day!
In******, 2024-09-05 14:06 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
First thing: I'm very much a matcha beginner. I drink it mostly for the effects, not the taste; but I'm exploring to figure out if there's a matcha I also *enjoy* drinking. This is... okay. It has a strong earthy note which, in my opinion, tends toward bitterness. Used in a latte (don't judge me :P), the earthiness stands out, when I would expect it to be muted by the milk. It's certainly still better than cheap supermarket matcha, and I'll finish the small tin I bought; but I won't buy this again.
Special tea blend made to commemorate Sen no Rikyū from Kanbayashi Shunsho
In******, 2024-09-05 13:57 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
First thing: I'm very much a matcha beginner. I drink it mostly for the effects, not the taste; but I'm exploring to figure out if there's a matcha I also *enjoy* drinking. That said, this matcha tastes like "nothing"... but in a good way! The first few sips taste just faintly green; but as I drink, the green flavor deepens and the creaminess and subtle sweetness come through. To use a corny metaphor, drinking this makes me think of standing in a temperate rainforest and just breathing: the first thing you notice is the fresh, clean air; then the scents of the green trees and damp mulch become more apparent the longer you pay attention. The finish, also subtle, is clean and faintly sweet. Overall: mild, but rewards mindful drinking. I think this would be a good introduction to matcha, since the flavors are not very strong. I intend to buy more of this!
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Ri******, 2024-09-05 04:00 JST, GERMANY
Well, for this price you can't expect too much complexity. You can drink at as usucha but I would recommend 85°C instead of 80°C. Also, eat something sweet or bitter before drinking this matcha to tame the bitterness. If you follow these recommendations, this matcha tastes actually pretty decent for this price point.
Al******, 2024-09-01 08:59 JST, AUSTRALIA
This matcha would probably be a good, affordable entry-level option for matcha beginners, but it doesn't fit my preferences. It definitely has that silky and fresh taste that was promised in the description. However, it has a very strong bitterness and astringency that reminds me of sucking almond nuts (which is probably the "nutty aftertaste"). No matter what temperature I make it with, it still turns out very bitter. It also doesn't froth like the other matcha products I've tried. Lastly, the colour is not as vibrant as other matches (MK, Ippodo, even Biwa no Shiro from the same brand).
Ta******, 2024-08-26 11:50 JST, CANADA
Perfect size, this vessel is great for whisking matcha to pour neatly into a stone cup if the guest, for one reason or another, does not desire to drink from a teabowl. It's also nice to have to whisk lower grade matcha for guests who prefer a mixed drink or latte.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Ri******, 2024-08-24 20:28 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
As a koicha, while this match was good, I preferred the Hatsumukashi. It had no bitterness, and a slight astringency. However it lacked notes that really distinguish itself as a koicha. As an usucha, that astringency really came out in a delightful way. This would be a treat usucha I'd reach for and would place with my favorite usucha matchas (or which I place the horii shichimeien single origin matchas, and ippodo premium matchas). This matcha is definitely worth the purchase, especially when you have the opportunity to compare it to Hatsumukashi.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Gy******, 2024-08-24 18:01 JST, HUNGARY
A wonderful lighthearted tea, ideal for relaxing. It brings you the taste and scent of rural Japan. You can experiment with brewing, very hard to mess up the end result. I even make cold brew version. Excellent value for money.
Koicha blend favoured by Zabousai iemoto, the 16th generation grand tea master of Urasenke school
Green tea powder with sugar for making latte by Marukyu Koyamaen
Tea stems blended with rich tasting green tea from Shiga prefecture
Be******, 2024-08-14 00:22 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Misho doesn't come across very sweet, which is a nice contrast from many others I have tried. It is woody, but not overly pungent and it is very well balanced, to me. Not as serious feeling as Nankun, but still captivating and gently peaceful. I'm glad I tried this one.
Square shape raku pottery tea bowl, the one of Sen no Rikyū’s favorites
Th******, 2024-08-13 04:13 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I recently purchased the Kuroraku Muki Guri Chōjiro Utsushi tea bowl from Sazen Tea, and I'm absolutely thrilled with my experience. The beautiful piece of teaware exceeded my expectations in every way. The craftsmanship of this tea bowl is simply stunning. The muki guri pattern is expertly executed, creating a visually striking and tactile surface that's a joy to hold. The glaze has a lovely depth and character that changes subtly in different lighting conditions. What really sets Sazen Tea apart is their exceptional customer service as I did have some back and forth emails concerning this order. I mainly corresponded with Dorottya and was truly amazed by the professionalism.
Ch******, 2024-08-12 23:16 JST, SINGAPORE
Received this product relatively fast, and I tried it after a hot water rinse. Although the capacity is quite small, it suits my habit of not making too much tea for each brew. Suitable for fast tea tasting. It's a pleasure to use, with perfect pouring! I'm happy that this is my first shiboridashi!
Ez******, 2024-08-12 12:25 JST, PHILIPPINES
This was surprisingly really good out of the batch of "affordable" matcha I got this time around. It had a distinct "nori" smell that is very different from the usual seaweed notes of some matcha. (Think Japanese rice balls/onigiri) This results in a deep savory flavor that is surprisingly not bitter. It's not as bright as the more expensive ones, and the flavor isn't what I would call complex, but it works really well for what it is.
Ri******, 2024-08-11 06:06 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This matcha has some bitterness to it as usucha. I'd liken it to the Marukyu-Koyamaen Aorashi. It's serviceable as usucha, but with its flavor profile, I'd be reluctant to try it as a koicha. There are better matchas at this price. This is nearly the same price as Marukyu-Koyamaen Kinrin, but it hits below its weight.
Ri******, 2024-08-11 06:01 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is a phenomenal koicha matcha. I was skeptical given the price, but it definitely holds its own with Horii Shichimeien and Marukyu-Koyamaen. As a koicha it is resplendent with cacao notes. It's a nice match as usucha, but you miss out on its intensity. A good treat matcha.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
ch******, 2024-08-10 04:13 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
very bad taste.. seems like it was oxidized a little bit.. tasted more with notes of black tea rather than green.. sazen should inspect their product properly.. not good quality.. brewed at 70 degrees as instructed and it tasted bad..yukkk..
ch******, 2024-08-09 01:52 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This really feels like competitive grade matcha.. It is little coarse.. not very smooth ground I guess... but that doesn't affect at all on the taste.. It has smooth nutty flavorful matcha taste with very less fishy after feel.. I would definitely recommend it for this price..
Da******, 2024-08-07 01:28 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Delicious! Carmen at Sazen recommended this to me when I asked for a good replacement for my usual Maryuku Koyamaen favorites Kiyo no Mori and Sanyu no Shiro & she was spot on. Like the similarly priced MK usuchas I favor for my mornings, Biwa no Shiro is indeed creamy and sweet with a silky substantial milky like texture. Despite making it a bit on the thicker side (I use abt 20% less water than typical recipe calls for) there is no bitterness, astringincy or tannic tastes. There’s a good bit of umami with the sweet and there is indeed a nuttiness like cashew or macadamia that’s very good. Highly recommend this!
Usucha blend favoured by Futessai iemoto, the 14th generation grand tea master of Mushakojisenke
Ez******, 2024-07-26 15:32 JST, PHILIPPINES
Surprisingly decent for its price. It had a fantastic, citrus smell. Unfortunately, the smell wasn't reflective of what it actually tasted. It was a bit flat and boring at first, grassy, neither sweet nor bitter, no odd aftertastes. It worked really well once cooled down (almost regular temperature). It became creamier and a bit sweeter. It also doesn't work well with oat milk. The obvious taste of any nut milk would completely overpower the mild flavor of daigyoku. I tried cold whisking it with oat milk, but it didn't make much of a difference. Maybe try a completely neutral-flavored milk if you want to latte this.
Entry grade tea for making usucha (thin tea) that is well-liked among matcha beginners
Cl******, 2024-07-25 04:17 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
It is a nice beginner matcha that froths very easily. This one has strong astringency and tends on the bitter side for the aftertaste. I would recommend it for daily lattes and on its own only if you like astringency and bitterness at the end. The packaging is not much of my liking, I don't feel the plastic lid air tights but I can be very wrong and the matcha comes in a bag with a little dehumidifier packet. Be very careful when transferring from bag to the can.
Cl******, 2024-07-25 04:13 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Lovely matcha that tends on the sweeter side, very very similar to Isuzu and just a tiny bit pricier but still very affordable. It tastes great in lattes but on its own as well. I'm getting this one in a larger can if my beloved Isuzu is still out of stock. The packaging ca be tricky since the matcha is inside an actual bag, inside the can... you have to be very careful when transferring from the bag to the can, at least this holds true for the 30 gram size, will update for larger size if is different.
Ez******, 2024-07-10 10:41 JST, PHILIPPINES
Wako is what you would expect "matcha" to smell and taste like. It's bright and grassy, not much bitterness after taking a few sips. It's quite mild. That being said, I'm not too fond of it. It lacks depth. It does work pretty well as a latte, though!
Fr******, 2024-07-09 02:55 JST, CANADA
Aftertaste very reminiscent of water spinach.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Sazen Tea Office, 2024-07-09 15:20 JST, JAPAN
We are sorry to hear about your experiences with this tea! Every time we tried we found it very flavorful and rich. The strong cocoa aroma is comforting. May we ask how you prepared the tea?
Qu******, 2024-07-07 02:21 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Call me basic, but I love a good Yabukita - and this is a very good one. Of the many cultivars, it's not sweetest, the most umami, or the greenest - but it is all of these things in perfect harmony, with a strong and unmistakable fragrance that to me is the essence of Japanese tea. This one makes for a great shincha experience with very little bitterness, a fresh green pea flavor, and underlying minerality. I think this would also be really well-suited to those who enjoy delicate Chinese greens like An Ji Bai Cha.
Sa******, 2024-06-21 11:14 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Love using this when I want a punchy/flavorful session. Its a great piece to really test and concentrate the full potential flavors of green tea. The pedestal design makes for easy handling and also just looks fantastic.
Sa******, 2024-06-21 10:29 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Different from any black tea I've tried. It's loaded with dark chocolates. Orange Citrusy highlights and hints of tart raspberry as well as bits of honey graham crackers. It has a good balance of rocky minerality as well. It checks all the boxes and each flavor isn't overly dominant. Very impressed. More of the orangey flavor comes forward in further infusions. I'm using a nixing clay pot and it compliments this tea very well.
Fr******, 2024-06-14 04:38 JST, CANADA
Loose leaf smells like dark chocolate, which was really nice. I was excited to try it, but actually drinking it was a different experience. It was too bitter with a strong aftertaste. Not even sugar or milk could make it palatable. I adjusted the amount, steep time, etc, but nothing saved this tea for me. Perhaps roasted black tea just might not be for me.
Sc******, 2024-06-12 20:09 JST, UNITED KINGDOM
This chasen is simply wonderful! I previously bought the starter set from Sazentea which includes a plastic/resin chasen. I used the resin chasen for a week while I got used to the whisking technique and the results seemed good, but when I started to use this bamboo chasen instead, the difference was like night and day. This creates a perfect froth and both the taste and consistency of my matcha is far superior to anything else you could whisk with - it was a completely different experience. I will definitely continue to purchase this chasen again when my current one starts to wear out out in a year or two!
Sc******, 2024-06-12 20:00 JST, UNITED KINGDOM
This starter set is such good value for money and is perfect as you are introduced to the world of matcha. The 50g of Matcha Daigyoku they supply you with is very forgiving, even if you don't have a temperature controlled kettle. The whisk is great to use for a couple of weeks while you learn the whisking methods. If you try whisking matcha with a bamboo chasen for the first time, you will likely be clumsy and break one of the prongs or apply too much pressure to the bottom of the cup - a lot can go wrong! However, the bamboo chasen are still far superior to the one in this set and I highly recommend you buy a proper chasen as soon as possible. The Olive green tea bowl is beautiful to drink from and display!
Premium Matcha Tea Scoop made of more than 200 year-old bamboo
Sc******, 2024-06-12 19:49 JST, UNITED KINGDOM
This Chashaku is absolutely stunning and will likely only increase in value as they become harder to source. How they achieve this finish is also very interesting and makes the experience of making your matcha feel even more special. It's also a great little conversation tidbit; "you know, to get this finish it takes over 100 years of..." etc. which will either leave your guests wide eyed and fascinated, or potentially guide them into a deep sleep. If it's the latter, that means more matcha for you. Both outcomes are a win.
Sc******, 2024-06-12 19:03 JST, UNITED KINGDOM
It is ESSENTIAL that you have a sifter like this! For me, there is no point even making a cup of matcha tea if it hasn't already been sifted; it impacts the flavour and consistency massively. This sifter is great because it's steel - matcha should always be stored at cool temperatures and the steel allows the matcha inside to be cooler than if you were storing it in a plastic re-sealable bag.
Sc******, 2024-06-12 19:00 JST, UNITED KINGDOM
I bought two of these (A and B); one for my Chasen dedicated to making Usucha tea and the other for my Chasen for Koicha tea. The finish on the Kurokessho gives it a really authentic rustic kind of feeling whereas the finish on the Oribe looks quite premium and a little more modern. Both of them look great for different reasons and no matter which version you buy, you'll be amazed at the craftsmanship even though they cost so little!
Sc******, 2024-06-12 18:55 JST, UNITED KINGDOM
Prepping Koicha is quite a bit different from prepping Usucha but is still an intricate process - the quality of this Chasen is superb compared to anything you would buy 'cheap' from Amazon. It's also very well priced considering the quality.
Roasted green tea blended with roasted brown rice from Shiga Prefecture, Japan
Ta******, 2024-06-07 18:25 JST, CANADA
very thin and lightweight, its lucky im only using it to serve gyokuro otherwise i would be worried about its fragility. High quality ceramic, it makes a nice sound when lightly tapped. The bottom of the tray has a lovely rough texture, and also prevents slipping while sitting on tablecloth.
Tokoname water cooler or pitcher by Hiroshi Koie
Ta******, 2024-05-29 00:53 JST, CANADA
Dainty and beautiful. I can still see the slight markings of how the handle and spout were formed by hand, I feel that adds interest to the vessel, being reminded of the time and skill it took to make it. It has a lovely pour, nice and smooth. The walls are thin, perfect for cooling down some water for gyokuro.
Da******, 2024-05-28 15:31 JST, CZECH REPUBLIC
I have tried several types of preparation and several types of water and have not found a way to prepare the tea to suit me. There is a grassy and a bit of citrus in the taste, but mostly an almost sharp bitterness that is reminiscent of very young sheng puerh and is very noticeable even at low temperature. The umami is rather medium. Finally, I came up with an even more acceptable way to prepare the tea, namely by decanting immediately after pouring. Definitely not a tea I prefer, though.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Da******, 2024-06-04 16:07 JST, CZECH REPUBLIC
I finally found a way to make the tea. 5 g/150 ml, 70 °C, 1:30 min., water with higher mineral content. Then the tea will give a nice infusion with full umani, a trace of herbs, a slight sweetness, no bitterness.
Ro******, 2024-05-16 05:30 JST, GERMANY
Mellow pleasant sencha, not bitter at all even when brewed as per description 10g per 200ml - very drinkable. Despite being soft and smooth it lacks a character (therefore -1 star). The liquor color is melon seeds. The leaves are very high quality and their size is consistent. See photo of the first infusion 10g 200ml 30 seconds at 75 degrees Celsius.
Tokoname water cooler or pitcher by Hiroshi Koie
Jo******, 2024-04-20 23:53 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
It’s a good piece, but 150ml to 80%, it is not! It’s not even 150ml when filled to the point it’s spilling out the spout. Functionally, this is around 90ml filled to 80%. I’d normally be okay with a size discrepancy but this is just too small.
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COMMENTS (2) ▼
Jo******, 2024-04-20 23:54 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I have no idea why the image sent upside down! It reads in at 143ml at full capacity.
Xi******, 2024-04-21 01:52 JST, GERMANY
Thank you for the info. Have been considering buying it for a while, now I see that it is really much too small.
Entry grade tea for making usucha (thin tea) that is well-liked among matcha beginners
Ta******, 2024-04-13 15:06 JST, CANADA
It was a delight to serve guests kabusecha in this hōhin. Here the spring frogs were singing, and there was gentle rain, the pot went really well with these surroundings. The tenmoku glaze reminded the guest of the gentle mist on the frogs skin in spring. Thank you for offering it for sale here.
Mi******, 2024-04-05 09:44 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is a beautiful kyusu, and I have received it well! It is a perfect size for me, and it's so lovely. I've enjoyed several sencha with it already. I also very much loved the sample tea gift that arrived with my order. I'm very happy. Thank you so much!
Carefully selected green tea with a rich umami flavor and a pleasant relaxing aroma
Ta******, 2024-03-19 00:32 JST, HUNGARY
Very sweet umami that reminds me of some tropical fruits, with a bit of grainy notes. From the second steep, a conforming seaweed taste dominates with vegetal aftertaste. Decent and balanced. Note that, this tea definitely needs higher temperature water from steep-to-steep.
Ch******, 2024-03-13 14:31 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This tea is on the expensive side so I don't drink it often, but wow it sure is complex. In terms of oxidizing it's balanced comfortably in the middle of a red and a green, with depth and freshness balanced. Due to the charcoal roasting the smoke note lingers in the background and make the caffeine level just right so that it can be enjoyed at any time of day. Ideally suited to afternoon and evening as you will not be kept up. I wouldn't go pairing this with anything so you can really taste all the complexity. Also this goes for steep after steep so you either need to be a prolific tea drinker or get ready to share.
Ch******, 2024-03-05 16:03 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
My first Asian style tea cup that quickly became my baseline for seeing if tea is good. Tall sides let you have headspace on top for a cool grip on the lip, then concentrate the aromas into your nose. A good cup for green teas but an even better cup for black (red), and oolong! I've had mine since last December and after three months it had a deep tea stain from use. I've since used baking soda to scrub that away revealing the white interior glaze which lets you see the color of your tea. Holds heat just long enough and holds just enough to work with my back handled pot. I have also made sure to keep soap away from this cup as the bottom is a somewhat porous clay with minimal glaze. But the interior is fully glazed which makes cleaning easy and makes it possible to remove even stubborn tea stain with hot water soaks and baking soda scrubs.
Japanese organic oolong tea with a floral fragrance and smoked aroma
Ch******, 2024-03-05 15:46 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Roasty, toasty, and complex at a price that lets you drink it every day! I'm not a big drinker of oolongs but this tea is quickly changing that one cup at a time. I currently have this and an expensive Taiwanese oolong in my rotation and this is the one I favor, because the roasty flavors and darker oxidized leaf is similar to my favorite black teas with a hint of green flavor to round it out. This would be a great tea to have with food as the flavor will not clash with sweet or salty and isn't so strong it overloads your palate. Easily goes multiple steeps and develops and changes as you go. This tea makes an ideal "all day drinker" if you are someone that keeps a cup and pot at your side.
Ch******, 2024-03-05 15:27 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
My first high grade black tea, and I keep coming back to this one because it's so good. It's easily in the same league as black teas from Fujian with strong floral and fruity notes. I get a strong scent of blooming beach rose and a flavor mixing stone fruits and beach rose hips. Brews a beautiful red-orange and a pot holding a teaspoon and a half of dry leaf goes at least 500 ml when brewed gong-fu style with short 10-30 second steeps. I've even tried benifuki black from other suppliers and this is literally a cut above, as when it opens in the pot you see nearly whole leaves like in the pictures! More US tea sellers need to take notes and show the leaf opened up along with dry.
Ch******, 2024-03-05 15:02 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Perfect small pot, pours cleanly and the clay filter works for most all loose leaf teas of decent quality. It look me a while to really learn this pot's quirks but my one has about a 10 second pour (yours may vary) so depending on the tea I give it a count of 10 to 20 then pour. Holds a teaspoon of oolong comfortably after expansion and can easily be used with much more tea when using gyokuro or sencha for concentrated short steeps. Capacity isn't much so it's ideal for one or possibly two people depending on your cups. I liked this pot so much I ended up getting another by Taisen with similar colors and a side handle! Just make sure you don't get a stray leaf on the area where the lid and pot meet, the fit is very tight but glides open and closed, which is proof that Taisen is a master of the craft.
Na******, 2024-02-27 03:25 JST, CANADA
I am absolutely in love with this gaiwan. It's on a larger side, and works perfectly well when I am having my after-dinner-oolong-time with my family. The beautiful clay is helping to extract some very nice fragrant notes out of the Dancong teas. Love the rustic, wabi-sabi feel and texture of this gaiwan.
Er******, 2024-02-26 20:11 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This tea is undoubtedly on the pricier side, yet it is worth every single penny!! I found the 3g of leaf suggestion to be good for 120ml water, I suggest 4.5g if you want a more intense session. AROMA - like a freshly picked bouquet of flowers - I can pick out honeysuckle, gardenia, and dandelion - layered over fresh orange, grapefruit, and lemon. TASTE - similarly floral, with the citrus coming more to the forefront. AFTERTASTE - a potent and lingering aftertaste of orange marmalade! TEXTURE - soft, silky, not oily like some teas, but not thin, either. PROGRESSION THROUGH STEEPS - First few steeps are floral and subtler, later steeps really ramp up the intensity with the flavors of orange and grapefruit peel overtaking the florals. STEEP TIMINGS - Can easily get too bitter if oversteeped, especially on the later infusions. I found the suggested 30s to be a bit too intense. I suggest starting with flash steeps for the first 2-3, then 5, 10, 15, 20 seconds. TEAWARE PAIRINGS - Porcelain gaiwan to concentrate the aroma, or a yixing-style unglazed clay teapot to bring out the silky texture. *Definitely use filtered water! Especially if you have hard tap water like I do. It will dull the aroma and make it taste chalky otherwise.
Ch******, 2024-02-19 14:26 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
It's good white tea, somewhat mellow with a mix of oxidized parts on the leaf. I have a feeling that this tea could really go for some age, perhaps 3 to 30 years if I forget I have it. Given time it should naturally oxidize and become deeper in flavor, so I put everything in the paper box I got with my first teapot purchase and I'm going to just forget I have it for a few years and come back when it's transformed into an aged white tea. I may also start acquiring wooden cigar boxes and box up teas from certain years to age.
Da******, 2024-02-15 18:45 JST, CZECH REPUBLIC
I played with this tea for a few days and did not reach a result that would satisfy me completely. But that would be more a result of a preference for a different spectrum of flavors. There are only two things I can say about the tea: a) it is a very delicate tasting material b) it is extremely sensitive to water quality. An interesting flavour with umami and fresh green peas, accompanied by a distinct secondary sweetness, was provided by the tea at a dosage of 5 g/100 m, 1:30 min first infusion, 60 °C, water with a higher TDS. The lower TDS water suppressed umami and accelerated the onset of bitterness, although it enhanced the spectrum of flavours typical of green tea. I think a more comprehensive description of the ideal preparation procedure, including the appropriate water, would be appropriate for this category of tea.
Ce******, 2024-02-13 10:29 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Good quality as far as I can tell. Unlike other Sazen bags it didnt come with any instructions on dosage and temperature which led to a bit of guess work. Good flavor, but a bit less sweet than other mugicha ive had
Ce******, 2024-02-13 10:28 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Very different feel to matcha. Powder particles are larger and remain present in tea, so they sediment. Flavor is unique but simple. Main issue was that the feeling you get from it is not like the smooth tea high from matcha, it causes a more jittery feel. Won't buy again
Ta******, 2024-02-07 23:14 JST, HUNGARY
It is an unusually sweet Sencha. Slighly reminds me of maracuja with a smooth vegetal base, especially the aftertaste is exciting with its vegetal, sweet and mineral tones. I’ve had less complex Kabusechas than this, so I would not be surprised if it has been shaded for a few days. Immediately became my daily tea. I definitely recommend to try it.
Ta******, 2024-02-07 22:29 JST, HUNGARY
It is a very interesting mix of vegetal tones and fruity sweetness. The umami is very straightforward with a hint of seaweed and the aftertaste is more reminiscent to a tropical fruit with a subtle sweetness. From the second steep, this sweetness pretty much gone but still very savoury and the vegetal notes are more dominant. Particularly balanced tea. It almost forces me to take sip after sip. Definitely for occasions.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Asahi tea cultivar
To******, 2024-01-19 21:38 JST, GEORGIA
After consuming a week, I finally understood what this tea was about. not aggressive, not abrasive. It's not a complete takeover in your mouth like others I have tasted, you would rather appreciate its soft company. The idea of blends, is not to coin a targeted specific taste, rather interchangeably introduce the notes.
ar******, 2024-01-18 01:06 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I figured I would give this one a try even though no one has reviewed it yet and I am very glad that I did - matcha blend is delicious. I am not big on tasting notes, but I can say that for me at least, it wasn't grassy but rather creamy and nutty. Very easy and enjoyable to drink. I am going to get more. And the price is right.
JAS qualified, organically cultivated matcha for making thin tea (usucha)
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Koyamaen’s Chigi no Shiro is a mid-grade thin tea (usucha) and often used at tea events
Small size outdoor bamboo tea whisk from Nara • approx. 48-tine chasen
Ta******, 2023-12-13 00:02 JST, HUNGARY
Very sweet, fresh and silky smooth with a tiny bit of citrus aftertaste. I can’t recall that I’ve ever tried single origin Ujimidori, so not sure if that’s the cultivar characteristics, but the balance of sweetness and freshness make this Karigane a very nice tea. The second steep is more creamy and from there, the grassy and citrus taste starts to evolve. Despite Karigane is a byproduct, I really love that the experience is similar for a Gyokuro, while the price stays affordable. The fourth steep is still enjoyable.
Carefully selected green tea with a rich umami flavor and a pleasant relaxing aroma
Carefully selected green tea with a rich umami flavor and a pleasant relaxing aroma
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Ro******, 2023-12-08 07:42 JST, GERMANY
This is a late review for the 2021 can. I remember the taste as mellow but not boring. It had a prominent nutty aftertaste. I remember drinking the whole package quickly in a course of just few days as it went really well in winter :)
Ma******, 2023-12-06 11:00 JST, NORWAY
Wonderful little pot. It's easy to tell there's been put thought into the design, such as the extended lip on the front which allows for easy lid-less pouring. I wasn't able to tell this on the photos but the filter isn't flat! It's got a small bulge on it which seems to make pour even more effective. Speaking of pour: this teapot has excellent control, you can do a super slow pour (good for gyokuro), in between speeds, or a super quick empty. The lid fits very securely and is very tight, but there is a slight wobble if you press down on the edges. I'm glad such a well constructed porcelain kyusu exist, as I personally really like the taste of porcelain pots.
Ad******, 2023-12-04 05:52 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Excellent, a bit sweet, this is my favorite black tea sold by Sazen.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Ch******, 2024-03-05 15:06 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Probably my favorite black (red) tea I've had! Easily goes up against Chinese reds in terms of floral and fruity flavors.
Japanese organic oolong tea with a floral fragrance and smoked aroma
Ad******, 2023-12-02 15:51 JST, JAPAN
Liquor is light yellow turning amber with subsequent brews. The leaves are aromatic with a pleasing milky aroma with a distinct mineral 'afternote'. As a drinker of rock teas, this feels bland on the first brew but becomes more flavorful with more mouthfuls. On subsequent brews, the mineral nature of the tea becomes more prominent and inherent flavors become more distinct. A pleasing light Oolong to enjoy during a quiet afternoon.
Da******, 2023-11-26 17:26 JST, CZECH REPUBLIC
The tea has a distinctive milky umami and grassy taste. It has a mild sweetness. The bitterness and astringency is quite marginal. In my opinion, it gives better results if prepared in a banko-yaki pot. The taste is then fuller and more pronounced, in porcelain I find it too delicate. I find the vendor's recommended preparation (5 g/200 ml, 80 °C, 1 min) to be optimal. The tea will provide three tasty infusions, the first is nevertheless the best. I have also tried the gyokuro preparation (1 g/10 ml, 3 min, 40 °C) and can recommend it. The infusion has an intense flavour of young green peas, sweetish, with marginal bitterness and astringency.
Traditionally roasted Chinese oolong tea
Unique, golden color sencha grown only in one plantation in Shizuoka
Ro******, 2023-11-13 10:05 JST, GERMANY
Brewed as recommended. Pleasant tea, good for cooler rainy days. The taste reminds “Da Hong Pao” but not so rocky. It’s much smoother though. 4 stars because of price/taste ratio. I will try to brew it with a higher leaf to water ratio to see if the taste improves. The leaves and the liquor look beautiful though. The bubbles forming from pouring indicate the natural sugar content (good sign).
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Sa******, 2023-11-10 16:44 JST, BAHRAIN
This is not the first time I order large amounts of matcha. but this time they take more money from my account! This is weird
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Sazen Tea Office, 2023-11-15 13:08 JST, JAPAN
Thank you for your feedback! On our site, everyone can choose from two currencies, US Dollar or Japanese Yen. We can guarantee the prices shown on our site in these currencies. If you pay for an order with a bank account in any other currency, the exchange rate used to change the amount into that currency will be the daily rate of your bank service provider. We have no control over this exchange rate. Thank you for your understanding and continuous support!
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Sa******, 2023-11-10 16:44 JST, BAHRAIN
This is not the first time I order large amounts of matcha. but this time they take more money from my account! This is weird
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Sazen Tea Office, 2023-11-15 13:08 JST, JAPAN
Thank you for your feedback! On our site, everyone can choose from two currencies, US Dollar or Japanese Yen. We can guarantee the prices shown on our site in these currencies. If you pay for an order with a bank account in any other currency, the exchange rate used to change the amount into that currency will be the daily rate of your bank service provider. We have no control over this exchange rate. Thank you for your understanding and continuous support!
Da******, 2023-11-08 02:05 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I’m relatively new to koicha and have been trying a bunch. This may be the finest koicha or matcha generally I’ve ever had. Can make it as thick as you like - I was around 2 tsp and maybe 1.5 oz water just enough to get it to pour - and it tastes like the sweetest richest freshest English green peas you’ve ever had. No nutty or other flavors like the Jiku and Komyo - also excellent - but for koicha in particular this is a couple of notches above both of those. I definitely have to use strainer first (I think the foil pouch matches are a bit more moist and clump more) but for special occasions worth it. As an usucha it’s terrific tho I think not as distinctive. If you love thick sweet koicha you have to try this.
To******, 2023-11-05 19:34 JST, POLAND
I'm very positively surprised and totally didn't expect it, but Tsubokiri Matcha immediately jumped into my top 3. It does a great job as a usucha which is really light, with a complete lack of bitterness. This is the first time I've drunk matcha where the milky flavour is so prominent, with a sweet aftertaste that falls more into fruity than vegetable note. Drinking it in an autumnal setting with a view of the leaves turning red and yellow makes you take as much as you can from the moment, a real mindfulness. I would recommend this matcha to anyone who prefers lighter flavours with a noticeable sweetness, you won't be disappointed! The pic also shows: - Chasen Hyakunijuppondate Kubo Tetsuzo - Chawan Shiroraku Chōjūgiga
Sa******, 2023-11-02 13:11 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
While the leaves are not very pretty the flavor is somewhat flat, almost muted. It is mild, earth, hay, dead grass and strong Minerality with a punch of river rocks and rainwater. I get a very strong drunken effect from this tea. I am not sure if it is from the black koji but it is mildy trippy in my opinion. I think this tea shines the most through the effect and not the flavor. Unless you love very Earthy and rocky flavors. I would not necessarily recommend this tea based on flavor. However I would strongly recommend this tea for those who are looking for something rather unusual, and more so an unusually potent cha qi experience.
Sa******, 2023-11-02 12:39 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Extremely delicious oolong. Harmonious green pear flavor with hints of roasted almond and baked blueberry muffins and honeydew mellon and a faint lychee undertone. Excellent tea that can be pushed without getting any bitterness. Incredibly balanced and not too mellow of flavors. A Great daily tea
Ta******, 2023-11-01 23:26 JST, HUNGARY
The smell of the leaves are a bit grainy, like fresh corn, so I was expecting something similar to certain Kagoshima Gyokuro, but it is not the case at all. The taste has a very intense marine, seaweed base with a creamy vegetable aftertaste. It is very difficult to pinpoint which one is more powerful, as the notes almost did a choreographed dance to show off their own complexity, especially in the first steep. Sometimes I felt I am having different teas, which I’ve found it quite rare with a single cultivar tea. It is a great Gyokuro if you are looking for an occasional tea to show your friends something interesting.
Sa******, 2023-10-27 09:22 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Bold, fruity and well rounded tea. Thr effect is no slouch either. Like a warm hug. Im getting Melon, peach, roses and orchids. Very good. I'm new to Japanese black tea and this one is the best I've had. If you like fruity earthy and floral flavor, this one is great. It's not overpowering. It's balanced, elegant and great for an evening cup of tea to unwind after a long day's work. Long fruity aftertaste.
Flavorful usucha (thin tea), excellence in everyday life, from Yamamasa Koyamaen
To******, 2023-10-19 05:07 JST, POLAND
I am very positively surprised by how tasty this matcha is as usucha. A sweet aftertaste, a slight grassy note and a very light matcha in general. Very good value for money and I will definitely buy it again, 5/5. Seems like a perfect choice for daily matcha
Ta******, 2023-10-11 12:26 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A beautiful piece as pictured, though mine is about 30ml smaller than expected.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Sazen Tea Office, 2023-10-20 16:45 JST, JAPAN
Thank you for your remark, we corrected the capacity. We wish you many happy tea times!
Single origin green tea from the former Ohmi Province, Japan
Unique, golden color sencha grown only in one plantation in Shizuoka
Ta******, 2023-09-27 02:58 JST, CANADA
delicious and unique tea, It has quickly become a favourite. It takes you into a relaxed and focused state, and is a perfect pairing for getting in touch with your creative side, or for contemplative moments. The taste is a lot like roasted cashews and dried fruits, with some biscuits.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Is******, 2023-09-24 17:28 JST, JAPAN
Matsu no Midori and this Matcha Isuzu are my favourite matchas so far of all the ones I've tried in the 30-40€/100g range. Price/quality I think Isuzu is even better. Great test, amazing green colour. Hoping Sazen will resume shipping to Spain soon, because I think that next time instead of ordering different matchas I'd go with this one.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Is******, 2023-09-24 17:28 JST, JAPAN
Matsu no Midori and this Matcha Isuzu are my favourite matchas so far of all the ones I've tried in the 30-40€/100g range. Price/quality I think Isuzu is even better. Great test, amazing green colour. Hoping Sazen will resume shipping to Spain soon, because I think that next time instead of ordering different matchas I'd go with this one.
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Sencha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Sencha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Sencha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Cl******, 2023-08-23 10:47 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
If you just want great matcha lattes without the ceremonial grade price-point this is the matcha to buy. It takes good, a bit astringent on its own but gives personality when added the milk (I did skimmed milk).
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Cl******, 2023-08-23 10:41 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Nice matcha, tastes very similar to Aoarashi but has a seaweed taste and smell a bit sharper than it.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Cl******, 2023-08-23 10:43 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is my review for the Shohaku, not the Aoarashi, pls forgive my clumsiness. Aoarashi is a great lovely matcha for beginners
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Ma******, 2023-08-21 06:29 JST, NORWAY
Great yabukita for the price. Flavour is interesting with nice layering, spring breeze, nuts, slightly toasty, some grass and a certain citrus-y edge. Medium-low umami, present astringency of a delicate kind and a pleasant body.
To******, 2023-08-21 00:42 JST, POLAND
An absolutely beautiful piece of work that fits in perfectly with the current summer and warm weather. Even though I am very far away from Japan, I organise my own little tea ceremonies for myself which help me to relax and get into the mood thanks to the matcha.This is my second tea bowl ever and the first with Rakunyū kiln. Fantastic workmanship and a pleasure for the eyes. The drawing on the chawan is from the "Chōjū-Giga", the oldest remaining Japanese manga. I recommend reading through all the scrolls and available material to get a little more insight into the history of this manga work. You can feel the professionalism, tradition and passion put into it while holding this tea bowl in hands.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
To******, 2023-08-21 01:23 JST, POLAND
Unfortunately I don't know why the photo didn't upload the other way but I hope everything is visible
Se******, 2023-08-20 20:12 JST, JAPAN
Excellent tea. Fresh, mild. And top packaging.
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COMMENTS (2) ▼
Da******, 2023-09-26 23:51 JST, CZECH REPUBLIC
Delicious tea, useful packing - big thanks to Yamamasa Koyamaen and Sazen Tea!
To******, 2024-07-19 05:09 JST, SLOVAK REPUBLIC
Unmatched quality by any means! This is a beutiful tea .
Se******, 2023-08-20 20:10 JST, JAPAN
These look great but for me there's an issue in the summer months, with high humidity, when my cups get stuck to these coasters. The coasters themselves are very elegant and lightweight, and this means if the bottom of your cup is even a bit wet, or has condensation (which is mostly the case for my summers), then you get a cup up together with the coaster attached =).
Se******, 2023-08-20 20:08 JST, JAPAN
I like this tray a lot, been using it for a few months now. It's great for tea cups but also my kids occasionally use it to store the spare parts of their LEGO =). All in all, pleasant to look at, feels light, and with enough texture to blend into any environment well.
Ma******, 2023-08-19 19:59 JST, NORWAY
To start of, I love fermented teas such as a good Shou. But this is one of the few teas I actually couldn't finish a session of. There's an overwhelming sweetness of black liquorice, followed by a fresh yeast flavour and a salty liquorice impression. I could see a few people enjoying this kind of flavour, but it's not something I'd go for again. I think 1 star would be bit too harsh as someone more into this heavy sweetness may still like it, so 2 stars seem more fair.
Ma******, 2023-08-19 19:55 JST, NORWAY
Lovely little cup. The size feels pretty spot-on and the weight is nice for what it is. The thick walls and temperature-qualities of the material makes sure the tea cools down to a nice temperature quickly and stays there for a while.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Ha******, 2023-08-15 01:29 JST, CANADA
Omg where do i begin. This matcha is excellent! The aroma is so beautiful, sweet, soft and faintly floral. The taste is incredibly smooth, no bitterness at all! It taste like a very delicious avocado haha. Very creamy, nutty, slightly sweet and great umami. Wonderful matcha!
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
To******, 2023-08-16 05:43 JST, POLAND
100% agree, absolutely delicious matcha for those who appreciate a delicate, sweet and creamy taste without bitterness
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
To******, 2023-08-05 03:46 JST, POLAND
When drinking this matcha, I love to close my eyes and enjoy the noticeable sweetness, creaminess and soft finish reminiscent of the summer ocean with a slight bitterness, but on the pleasant side. So far it's the best matcha I've had the chance to drink in my life, but I'm still at the beginning of this adventure. I'm glad that thanks to Sazen I can develop my hobby by exploring new flavours and new products :)
To******, 2023-08-05 03:41 JST, POLAND
Matcha Wako works really well as an everyday matcha. The taste is delicate, with a noticeable grassy aroma. The bitterness is minimal and the taste itself is strongly reminiscent of creamy grass. The value for money also definitely deserves praise
Fresh and herbal green tea from the first harvest of the year, 2023
Je******, 2023-07-22 03:15 JST, JAPAN
Frankly I am disappointed with MK's Wako. I expected more for a top tea in their Usucha range. Eiju would have been a better top Usucha tea from MK. I agree with another reviewer that you can find a similar matcha at a lower price point from other brands. That said, Wako is not a bad tea--just overpriced. For me, Wako tastes better when brewing with less water.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Je******, 2023-07-25 01:23 JST, JAPAN
Correction: I meant to say Kinrin instead of Eiju in my original review
Ri******, 2023-07-02 02:12 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The color of the liquor really reminds me of the Fukamushi blend. Though a much stronger brew, it has a delicate and balanced flavor. This provides the more complex tea character I look for without the cost. It's a quality you're unlikely to find at this price.
Ri******, 2023-07-02 02:09 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
An incredible addition to the Maruyasa line. Jiko and Komyo are such excellent quality matchas on their own, I had to try Tendo when saw there was a new release (despite no reviews!). I'm a huge fan of Jiko - it's an excellent high quality, sweet matcha. Who knew what this (a whole new price point for Maruyasa) would offer? The quality is immediate with its incredibly full, fresh aroma. No floral notes like Jiko nor nuttiness like Komyo. Whereas Jiko is bright and sweet with a middling body, Tendo brings an incredibly full body that never seems to dissipate (indeed 15 minutes after while writing this it lingers!). It hits you with a milky creaminess. Sometimes you notice some mineral notes, sometimes pea, other times buttery. No matter how you look at it, this is a matcha that is along the quality of the single origin Horii Shichimeien (reminds me of Mumon in particular) and Hekisuien Hekisui. You'd be remiss to not give this a try. Maruyasa exceeded the already high bar they set with their previous two matcha releases. This could very well be your go to matcha for a special occasion - it definitely will be for me.
Entry grade usucha (thin matcha), also perfect for flavoring soft drinks
Ca******, 2023-06-28 22:08 JST, PHILIPPINES
This is my first time trying a high quality culinary grade matcha so I can’t compare it with anything else. Taste: Strong umami flavor and moderate bitterness Color: Green but on the darker spectrum. For a culinary grade, it exceeded my expectations. Texture: Not sure if this is the correct term but there’s this chalky texture I get but It’s not unpleasant to me. I bought this specifically for creating lattes as I’ve been using too much of my ceremonial Matcha to create that strong flavour. Surely, I would buy this again. This Matcha is delicious and very cost efficient. I can’t wait to experiment more recipes with this.
Premium Japanese green tea from the Kansai Tea Competition
Da******, 2023-06-25 16:47 JST, CZECH REPUBLIC
The tea is based on umami and a light grassy taste, with a slight secondary sweetness. A light mineral note. Contrary to the vendor's recommendation, I prefer the 60-90 sec. steeping time of the first infusion, as then the umami gains intensity and the taste is very close to gyokuro (mineral, miso). Marginal bitterness, practically no astringency. Nice price/performance ratio.
アニ******, 2023-06-12 14:01 JST, JAPAN
This is one of the most satisfying traditional Japanese desserts I have tried so far. The type you try once and makes you crave it again and again. :) The texture, the sweetness, the looks, all so lovely and a perfect match for edgier matcha. My favorite is Otebo, I love the creamy, sweetness of white beans.
Da******, 2023-06-11 09:36 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This one was worth adjusting my methods for. It did really well at higher temperatures, so I would warm the bowl and kettle before pouring the boiling water again. Very pleasing mouth feel, I stopped sifting after realizing it magically does not clump when prepared in the slurry method. Very creamy, chocolatey, very low astringency. was my first venture into koicha.
Premium Japanese green tea from the Kansai Tea Competition
Je******, 2023-06-09 07:47 JST, JAPAN
This chasen does not work nearly as well as a cheap bamboo ones that you can get at a typical supermarket. However, it’s washable so it’s good for when you want to mix in with milk or other ingredients, or leave it out for guests to use
Da******, 2023-06-08 11:04 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Not as flavorful as I like, it's more enjoyable smelling it in the bag than from the cup. I tried it at 70C, 80C, and 85C. Too weak. Preferred Shincha Samidori and Kagoshima Shincha Yabukita, which are excellent to me. Just my opinion, maybe I am doing something wrong as others seem to like it.
Da******, 2023-06-03 03:56 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I love this tea. I have ordered it multiple times. However, it is VERY umami rich, which makes me wonder if it is a sencha at all. It really tastes (and feels) like a kabusecha. I'm not sure if that flavor is possible unless it has been grown under shade for some time. This would be my favorite "sencha" as I have not tasted any like it, but again it makes me wonder if it's because I'm comparing apples to oranges. Someone more experienced would perhaps be more qualified on this point.
Jo******, 2023-06-01 22:03 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I had hesitations on buying this, but the previous review convinced me I should try it out and I don't regret it. I get walnuts and crisp autumn leaves in the body and fresh cream in the aftertaste. The fresh cream helps mellow out the harshness from the body, but there’s not enough of it to add much substance to the aftertaste beyond this. It has an edge that I interpret as kind of “round”. It fills the whole palate and has a snap you without being astringent. Depending on how you prep this it CAN have a bit of a drying astringency after swallowing, separate from this snap. At around 85°C, you'll get more of a drying texture and the dried autumn leaf, with a slight nuttiness. There’s a bit of cream that mellows its slight astringency but not a whole lot. The snap and slight astringency is noticeable. At around 90°C, there’s a nuttier taste with less of the dried leaf quality, and a creamier aftertaste that balances out the snap and drying astringency quite well. The bolder body also mixes well with the snap, drawing the focus away from it. This is my preferred temp, it’s very well-balanced here but still lacking a bit in the aftertaste. If you drop to 75°C you’ll have a bad time unless you really enjoy snappy and astringent matcha. Dried leaf is predominant here and there’s little cream to balance out its snap. The astringency has a bite that makes my face scrunch up. It’s a fun matcha experience for sure. Listen to the 85°-90°C suggestion and you’ll have a great time. I would have liked to see a bit more cream in the taste, I think that would have given it a bit of sweetness it’s otherwise lacking.
Bamboo tea whisk made of black bamboo from Nara • approx. 64-tine chasen
To******, 2023-06-01 02:30 JST, POLAND
Product as described and of really high quality. I chose this one because 64 strings version is suitable for both Matcha styles and this is exactly what I was looking for. I also ordered a Kusenaoshi and everything fits together perfectly, I'm very satisfied. I am already after my first use of this chasen, as I received a sample of Ogurayama Matcha with my order which also impressed me and perhaps I will choose it for my next order.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Kr******, 2023-05-25 09:26 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I'm relatively new to the matcha world. Initially, I felt like expensive whisks probably weren't worth it. When my very first whisk that came with a matcha "starter kit" broke I took a chance on this one and WOW what a difference. The Chasen Chuaraho Kuba Sabun is so lightweight and makes whisking effortless. I get a perfect frothy tea every single time I use it. I'm still impressed by it months later and will absolutely replace it when it is needed.
Porcelain teacup by Kawai Masamitsu, available in two colors, white and celadon blue
Ta******, 2023-05-25 01:46 JST, CANADA
its so small and adorable! the colors remind me of a sunrise or a sunset, this bowl was nice for an outdoor temae in the garden in the very early spring morning. The foot of the bowl is interesting as it does not stand out yet it is still quite pronounced, and the texture is wonderful in the hands.
Jo******, 2023-05-24 21:02 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The previous reviews are right, this IS an amazing tea. It's also very hard to describe. To me, personally, this reminds me of both dashi and a great clear mushroom soup, but doesn't remind me too much of either to be either too strong or too fungal. Instead, it's a very clear, sweet brew with hints of ocean, hints of salt, hints of hearty broth and to me, a hint of tempura. I can also see the comparison to miso as well. At the end of the day it's just a great tea that packs a lot of flavor without veering in to the realms of bitterness or astringency. For brewing, I followed the instructions it came with, to great results.
JAS qualified, organically cultivated matcha for making thin tea (usucha)
Da******, 2023-05-24 05:56 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
My go to matcha for every day drinking, like all of the excellent Maryuku Koamaen matchas this is sweet and creamy and easy to froth. I consume about a 40 gram tin of this every 2 weeks (and then other matchas as well not necessarily all US organic certified). Highly recommend for anyone wanting both high quality authentic matcha and organic certified.
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Da******, 2023-12-16 03:49 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
So I’m updating my review here and if organic is super important to you … you should stick w my original review and not read this. :-). So first: I’ve been reading a lot abt and organic foods generally and matcha production specifically and I came to the conclusion that organic matcha wasn’t that critical to me. 98% of the produce I consume is organic, and I thought some foods - which aren’t perhaps known to require a ton of pesticides and/or where processing ends up removing them - are ok for me in conventional form. It’s minimizing total dose overall that matters. So over the past few months I started trying all different kinds of matchas - mostly in the Maryuku Koyamaen line - and reading abt them and my palate has improved. I’m now finding that there are plenty of usuchas that are often times even cheaper than the organic which are to me vastly superior in taste abs texture. I’m currently drinking the Sanyu no Shiro abs before that the (delicious!) kiyo no mori and I find both of these to have more umami, more sweetness, more delicious pumpkin seed flavor (in the Sanyu case anyway), vs the organic, which I’m now finding to be both a bit more bitter, less sweet, and having an almost chalkier or definitely less velvety mouth feel. I don’t think the organic silver is at all bad … but if organic matcha is not your absolute commitment … I’d definitely recommend others as both more delicious and having a more complex, richer mouth feel. This is something I wouldn’t have noticed a 6 months ago honestly, like any varietal thing (wine, etc) it takes some time to develop your ability to sense the differences and subtleties … I’m still amazed at what some people say they can taste! … and so you sorta gotta decide what’s important to you. :-)
Wa******, 2023-05-24 03:02 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Very nice look and feel, but I have to agree, a very sloppy pourer. There is no such thing as a clean pour with this kyusu. It dribbles from the spout, it dribbles from the lid. Keep a towel handy when using this kyusu.
Jo******, 2023-05-23 03:12 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This stuff is scrumptious, there's no other way around that. It has a dense, lush taste that carries a lot of umami without being overbearing or bitter. It has a slight round dryness that doesn't feel bad in the pallet, but instead balances out a noticeable sweet creaminess this matcha has. Sweet grass and florals are very noticeable in this matcha, and are rounded out with a nice buttery presence in the aftertaste. Drinking it is an experience that is both uplifting & grounding in a very enjoyable way.
Jo******, 2023-05-23 03:04 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is a decent everyday matcha for a good price. It's noticeably better than anything you will find in supermarkets, amazon, or other big retailers. The taste reminds me of fresh cut grass and snap peas with a bit of a snappy umami. It's lacking in sweetness and has a slight bitter & slight astringent taste that covers up some of the potential in its umami. To get the most out of it, let it sit on the tip of your tongue for a second when drinking it. Its faults don't render this undrinkable, and it's still a decent matcha. Having had others at the same price point, though, I've found that there's others I prefer that offer better, more flavorful options. I now find myself making multiple bowls of this one when I use it, trying to chase the flavor that I want from it, hidden beneath the slight bitter & astringent properties. It's a great matcha for beginners and those who want it to have a bit of a bite. It may just not be for me.
Jo******, 2023-05-23 02:42 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
It looks quite a lot like what is pictured. It's not a look I'm fond of but I can't knock points off for this since it's advertised as exactly what it is - if you like what you see in the product images, you'll get what you like! I got this out of desperation for a left-handed Kyusu and it serves this function well. The clay filter is great, as is the fit of the lid. It does make good tea. As for where I'm knocking off a star - the pour leaves something to be desired, as it often dribbles a bit and the handle can be a bit awkward to pick up. It can also be awkward trying to secure the lid with your thumb while pouring; I almost always have to re-adjust my grip after picking it up to do this. After a few weeks of use, I've grown to feel that these faults come more from the flat design than the quality. It has a great feel overall and the issue of a dribbling pour can be fixed with better control over the pour. The issue of the handle being too low to the surface is easily fixed by sitting the body of the tray on a tea towel or a raised tray with the handle over the edge. Regardless of the fix, the pot is evidently quality - just be aware of these issues before getting it and decide whether they're issues you're fine accommodating for or dealing with. If you're okay with these then you'll have no complaints about the pot.
Jo******, 2023-05-23 02:10 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is just kind of a great "any-occasion" cup for single person use. It feels great in the hands and comfortably holds the 60ml at around 80%, and around 90ml at MAX capacity. It holds heat well and displays the color of your tea beautifully. For $3.30 this is a steal.
Jo******, 2023-05-23 01:25 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I got size A (100ml). It has 90ml capacity WITH leaves. It’s a great piece! I was slightly anxious when it first arrived because it looked larger than it is, but that’s just because it has thick walls. When choosing which size you want, remember that this has pretty thick walls and can feel larger and heavier than what you’re used to (weighs around 210g, 2x as heavy as any other japanese or chinese wares I have at this size). My anxieties were out at ease after using it, when I found it was easy to handle, but I also have large hands. I’d recommend “B” if you do not have large hands. It is incredibly dense, it feels like you are using a rock. It has a nice pour. It can be laminar, it can be more turbulent, depending on how you pour. The three “gashes” serve as a great filter, and helps keep even small bits from escaping. You will get some dust. The clay has a smooth, “metallic” look with a nice iron-rich red color. It’s not shiny, but it does have a SLIGHT sheen contrasted by a nice “weel-thrown” texture that maintains a nice rustic appearance. Sazen’s product images are pretty on point. The BEST thing about this, in my opinion, is the effect the clay has on teas. It does a pretty great job mellowing some bitterness and harshness Sencha might have. It IS NOT a miracle worker, but instead works by adding a soft, warming quality to the taste that seems to mask it a bit. This makes it a great crutch if you’re having difficulties with certain Sencha, and serves as a great tool to bring your favorite Sencha to a new level.
Jo******, 2023-05-23 00:29 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This exceeded my expectations, above and beyond. The clay's nice & dense and the pot's a beauty to look at. The surface retained some swirls from throwing on the kiln, which is faint enough to be mostly un-noticeable yet still visible enough to be seen when closely inspected. I personally love this, it adds a bit of character and depth to the piece. Concerning a previous review mentioning the water capacity - mine is 116ml to the MAX (1g water = 1ml) with the lid on. Since clay does shrink in the kiln, yours may be a bit more, it may be a bit less. This has closer to 100ml capacity when leaves are in the pot. If you're not okay with this I would suggest the larger one. The strainer is great and it pours quickly with no dribble. The lid IS a very tight fit, and covering the lid's hole halts pouring effectively. This isn't really important to me but it's very nice to see nonetheless. The color of the clay in person is closest to the bottom-right photo on what I have attached.
Jo******, 2023-05-19 21:42 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
It's a very tricky sencha to brew, but it's very rewarding when done right. There's lots of potential to get a deep, dew-like grassy umami with a nice nuttiness and a buttery texture, and it's great when achieved. It never really gets TOO punishing, but these scales tip very easily in to "grass bomb" territory and a lush, deep grassy will overtake everything else and you'll be left with a deep grassy astringency that doesn't showcase this tea too well. I find the best way to brew this is .4g/10ml - STEEP 1 - 75C water, 30 seconds STEEP 2 - 80C water, 20 seconds STEEP 3 - 85C water, 20 seconds This makes for a great "ceremonial" tea of sorts. It doesn't require formality by any means, but it's very hard to enjoy this tea when your current focus isn't on tea. It requires attention and care when brewing, and if you provide this, the tea will reward you handsomely.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Jo******, 2024-04-09 23:30 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
UPDATE to my review here: It's not a tricky sencha to brew. I'm just stupid. Do the second steep super quick and you'll be fine. Still my favorite sencha, and heck, i get 6+ steeps on this one and enjoy the bitterness I get at those later steeps as well. The flavor is that interesting.
Ka******, 2023-05-19 14:20 JST, AUSTRIA
First things first, the teapot looks gorgeous for sure. It is on the heavier side though and it feels very solid (which is not a bad thing to me). Also, the shape surely makes it very convenient to steep long needle teas (typically the more premium Japanese greens). While the first overall impression was extremely positive - especially for that price! - I quickly noticed upon a more detailed assessment, that the spout was done sloppily. It has been attached in a crooked angle. That was a bit of a surprise find, considering that the allover craftmanship otherwise really looks fantastic. It feels like an unforced error to me. I don't know if it is because of the slightly misangled spout or if there are more/other issues with how the spout is designed in the first place, but I find the pouring quality quite poor. In fact, it is the worst pour of all my teapots (some of which are actually cheaper so the price point is not really an excuse). I can't help it but despite the very nice look I just don't "feel it" while using this teapot. To me it is no fun to use. If you don't care about pouring quality at all, then go for it. If pouring quality really matters to you, I would let this one pass. On a side note, for international shipping the shipping experience with Sazen was lightning fast and very good. The teapot was also well packed.
Competed in sencha tea category at the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Da******, 2023-05-17 14:08 JST, CZECH REPUBLIC
The wet leaf smells intensely of butter and a little grass with a light trace of roasted nuts. The first infusion, prepared as recommended, has an intense umami aroma, a taste reminiscent of a good quality gyokuro (i.e. in the direction of 'cooked brussels sprouts' - dimethyl sulphide) and a slight secondary sweetness. The following infusions are intensely milky-grassy. The degree of bitterness depends on the water, but is generally lower. Definitely interesting material, price corresponds to quality.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Er******, 2023-05-16 21:46 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Flavor -This matcha is a fine example of how milder flavors can be just as enticing as stronger ones. It’s like I’m drinking the freshest cream imaginable, layered with flavors of walnut, almond, and edamame, and not even the faintest hint of bitterness. Aroma - The aroma is similarly lovely, wafting a subtle scent of powdered sugar and marzipan. Texture - so very smooth! It feels like silk as it slides softly through your mouth. This really contributes to the feeling of relaxation that it provides, more so than I would have thought.
The highest grade usucha (thin tea) or the enty grade koicha (thick tea) in Hokoen range
Very delicious tea between koicha (thick tea) and usucha (thin tea) grade
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Unique, golden color sencha grown only in one plantation in Shizuoka
Jo******, 2023-05-13 01:16 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This stuff is really good. Like, REALLY good. I wish it were available in larger bags than 20g, but I understand there’s a limited source for it. It has the taste I wish all Sencha did. It IS more fruity, full bodied, vibrant without the strong umami of Gyokuro; this is a perfect in-between. The leaves are also a real delight to look at. Using this in a Shiboridashi is a real treat. I don’t really want to keep any others on hand now; this is the one. For brewing, I find 1g/10ml is a *bit* to much. .667g/1ml works best for me, and i follow the other guidelines perfectly.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Ta******, 2023-04-25 05:56 JST, CANADA
Incredibly light weight, and very beautiful. The design reminds me of when a droplet of water lands into a calm pond. The spout is perfectly made, and the lid sits comfortably on top without worry of sliding around. The vessel is a nice shape that fits nice in the hand, and the ripples of clay along the sides adds to the pleasurable tactile experience.
Sa******, 2023-04-22 15:18 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Pictures honestly don't do this pot justice. The texture of it so intricately detailed that it's really stunning from every angle. The lid fits tightly, there's no leak when pouring, and the pour itself is smooth.
Sa******, 2023-04-22 15:17 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Pictures honestly don't do this pot justice. The texture of it so intricately detailed that it's really stunning from every angle. The lid fits tightly, there's no leak when pouring, and the pour itself is smooth.
BL******, 2023-04-21 02:50 JST, MALAYSIA
This is an unique whisk. As a thick tea it gives a punch but in a good way. It awakens your senses and mellows out with a sweet finish. As a thin tea, it's green grassy notes are clearer and it leaves a sweet but not very long finish. Thin or thick this tea is unique because its licorice bitter notes is strong but well balanced and rounds out smoothly. It's not harsh and is an unique experience. On the nose there are cheaper and nicer selections you can try from sazen so as to those who favors a stronger umami flavour. There are others that you can go for. And by the way, I did not get any tartness and this is to me, med full-bodied.
BL******, 2023-04-21 02:05 JST, MALAYSIA
Finnaly i finished my tin. Overall, it's very smooth as a thick tea. If you make it into a thin tea, it's a bit mild or rather very mild. I like mine 4g but with an extra bit of water about 80ml to 100ml. It works well for me. However it is lovely as a thick tea for those who likes it's thick. It's just everything you imagine it to be so I'm not going to describe it. You won't regret trying this goodie.
Ma******, 2023-04-15 07:33 JST, NORWAY
This is a really nice floral oolong. Smells of purple and yellow florals, deep complexity. Thick, silky mouthfeel. Aroma lingers for a long time. There are notes of milk, butter and bake here as well which shows in a light umami. The liquor colour is a nice, vibrant yellow. Leaves look great, very intact. They are strong and hardy and can take many steeps before they run out of juice. I steeped in 90ml gaiwan, spent 5g of leaf per session and ran with boiling water.
Sa******, 2023-04-14 10:09 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
All I can say is YUMMM! I randomly purchased this tea as I was curious on tasting this brand, and I'm glad I did. Safe to say that this is one of the most delicious Koicha I've purchased. It's powerful (but NOT too intense) and sweet. It has no bitterness & no astringency which was really nice - and it left with an umami aftertaste that just keeps you thinking about it. No unpleasant seaweed or fresh cut grass aftertaste either - hard to describe, but just DELICIOUS. Try it thick as Koicha & you won't regret it
Er******, 2023-04-14 06:38 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The tenmoku glaze style of this gaiwan is unlike any other I’ve seen, it’s quite unique and intriguing. The Taiwan I ordered looks just like the photos - the oil spots look almost inky black at first, but are actually a shiny dark blue If the light catches it right. They contrast well with the silvery glaze underneath. The lid fits the cup well, to the extent that I usually don’t need to use a strainer for larger leaf teas, and feels easy to use. The cup doesn’t fit the saucer as snugly as I was hoping, but looks nice resting on it.
Filter in bottle - the easy way to make cold brewed tea
アニ******, 2023-04-10 13:44 JST, JAPAN
Until now, I used a small sifter, making a mess of my kitchen every day, so I'm so happy that I finally bought this. It made my morning routine much easier. I can sift a few days' portion at once, clean and quick. If you are a matcha lover and drink it at least a few times a week, this sifter will make your life so much easier.
Da******, 2023-04-07 06:58 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Decided to try this as it had a lower price point. I was disappointed when I tried the tea, and could not find the right temperature or concentration. The same brand Eiraku is so much better and it is less expensive. I do not recommend this tea.
Sa******, 2023-04-03 04:46 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
What a wonderful, mysterious smell. Immediately, you can tell that this incense is different. When burned, it sort of has a roasted cumin seed, woody undertones. And the previous reviewer is correct, I find that the scent of this incense lingers HOURS after it has been burned. Not an every day incense, but wonderful if you're looking for something more unique and special.
Sa******, 2023-04-03 04:42 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Lovely scent. Slightly more masculine (I find it more woody and spice-like rather than floral). Right out of the box, it smells divine. However, when burned, it does tend to produce (1) more smoke and (2) more smoke scent post-burning. It sort of lingers in your hands and clothes. I do still love it, but I find this is more suitable for burning outdoors.
Ri******, 2023-03-29 04:51 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I was intrigued to try this matcha after trying and falling in love with the Maruyasa Jiko (which I have purchased 5 or 6 tins of since its release). I was reluctant to purchase this because of the description of it being an "edgy" matcha as I anticipated a very savory matcha (which I find less enjoyable). While this matcha does possess a nutty character, it's a lot more subtle than other matchas with this flavor profile. It has a very prominent creaminess to go along with a sweetness at the end that makes it enjoyable and surprising at the same time. While I personally prefer the Jiko due to its more pronounced sweetness, this matcha is a worthy counterpart and really distinguishes the Maruyasa brand among the matcha offerings on Sazen. I hope other blends are released in the future - the quality you get for the price is almost criminal.
Ma******, 2023-03-21 23:17 JST, NORWAY
Excellent! This is a very fresh, clear and gorgeous blend. In the mouth it's medium-thick, oily, salivating, rich and dense flavour profile. Low astringency and bitterness, just enough to make it properly interesting. Medium umami of a sweet kind. Notes of black or darker sweet berries, pink florals like sakura leaves and sweet grass to keep the tea grounded to the earth. When sipping the aroma is instantaneously in the nose and lingers refreshingly long. Coats the mouth in a comforting oiliness. The cup is very fragrant too, easy to pick up smells even without concentrating. Complex enough and easy to drink. Lovely!
Premium Japanese green tea from the Kansai Tea Competition
Ma******, 2023-03-16 08:12 JST, NORWAY
This is lovely! This one is really fruity and one of the sweetest senchas I've ever drank. The leaves are of wonderful quality and very deep, vibrant, fresh green. Liqour looks spectacular. Dry leaves smell of seasoned meat, wet leaf smells of fresh fruits. Liqour aroma of sweet summer fruits and silky smooth milk. Very low astringency to none. Fruity, sweet goodness in cup. I used 4g/65C for 50sec first infusion, 15sec second infusion and 70c 1min third infusion.
BL******, 2023-03-16 03:55 JST, MALAYSIA
Excellent! Better than the Ohmi Gyokuro, which is also good. It smells very pleasant, sweet and refined when warm water touches the leaves. On the palate, it's smooth, refined, sweet, and slightly salty, like a seaweed soup (not the best description, but that's what it reminds me of). It's round and not too heavy on the mouthfeel. Elegant with a moderate finish. No bitterness of astringents from this delicate beauty. Gentle and silky, as its description states.
Ma******, 2023-03-15 02:43 JST, NORWAY
Pretty pleased with this cup. There are some small imperfections (looks like small dots) not a biggy though. The cup has a sweet "glaze" scent at first which you'll need to rinse out either by use or by simulating usage (flushing in and out hot water). All in all a very good cup, comfy sipper. Feels good in hand and pretty to look at.
Ma******, 2023-03-15 02:41 JST, NORWAY
This was a very fun experience. The flower tastes and smells really nice! I followed the recommended parameters and was pretty pleased with the result. It's fresh, clear, almost like a citrus-y chamomile. Texture is thin. Offers some really nice sensation in the back of the throat which feels notably different to tea.
BL******, 2023-03-13 21:19 JST, MALAYSIA
This is my second purchase. The first thing that struck me is its nose. Immediately I got a strong scent of roasted seaweed. Very delicious. On the palate, it is not as refined, smooth or complex if compared to others but note its price I think its excellent. It is a bit strong and rough but in a good way. It help awaken my senses and is my choice after a tired day. I dosed it slightly heavier than a thin tea but less than a thick tea as I like my liquor slightly stronger.
BL******, 2023-03-13 02:24 JST, MALAYSIA
As the water breaks the surface of the matcha, a wonderful sweet scent filled the air. Not as fragrant as the samidori but good enough for me. I got sweet seaweed with a hint of salt. As a thick tea, it was creamy, heavy, bold, sweet with a hint of floral notes. It had a long and pleasant finish. This is subjective, that I did not get much bitterness, and it wasn't dry to the palate. As a thin tea, it was creamy, soft, mellow, subtle and clean. However I prefer it slightly stronger or as a thick tea.
Unique, golden color sencha grown only in one plantation in Shizuoka
Ki******, 2023-03-05 12:52 JST, SINGAPORE
Tried it at 80 degree / 45 sec. Gave me a different vibe from other sencha. One thing I can say is, you will not regret purchasing this. Only pity is Sazen only have 20g package, would love to purchase this at 100g or more. Please go ahead and try it if you are still considering
Ru******, 2023-02-26 13:33 JST, INDONESIA
Sturdy banko-yaki pot with a good filtering that gives a nice flow. Aesthetically pleasing with the detailed textured finishing. Nice depth of the pot allows usage for different types of tea other than Japanese green teas, if one wishes to. Weight is not heavy and fits my hand just fine, though I wish the handle would be slightly longer or larger. The overall size of pot suitable for small hands as well.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
An******, 2023-02-21 23:47 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I discovered Isuzu accidentally and as soon as I did, the shop I purchased it from stopped carrying it. I went on a massive internet hunt and found it again at Sazen. It’s a perfect, light, morning matcha for me and tastes very smooth. I have it with an almond milk base. I used to do water and it is equally smooth and creamy tasting. I am not someone who is a perfectionist on matcha - I am a very average matcha drinker who switched to matcha from Indian chai to matcha at 42 for her health. I like creamy “sweet” matcha but I never use sugar. If this describes you, you will probably like this one too. I agree that it can be iced easily.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
An******, 2023-02-21 23:47 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I discovered Isuzu accidentally and as soon as I did, the shop I purchased it from stopped carrying it. I went on a massive internet hunt and found it again at Sazen. It’s a perfect, light, morning matcha for me and tastes very smooth. I have it with an almond milk base. I used to do water and it is equally smooth and creamy tasting. I am not someone who is a perfectionist on matcha - I am a very average matcha drinker who switched to matcha from Indian chai to matcha at 42 for her health. I like creamy “sweet” matcha but I never use sugar. If this describes you, you will probably like this one too. I agree that it can be iced easily.
Ta******, 2023-02-13 09:59 JST, CANADA
I was very happy to discover that Sazen started offering genmai by itself. This saves me time because I usually make it myself. Don't be shy to experiment! while it is very delicious when added to tea, it is a very versatile ingredient as it is just toasted rice. Try it on a salad, a small sprinkle over a roasted fish, or even an interesting ingredient to homemade chocolate :) as for my favourite pairing for tea, it may outshine the higher quality teas with its roasted flavour, so I personally prefer blending it with a tea that has lots of stems in it.
Ri******, 2023-02-12 03:56 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Attractive and great small kyusu. Well formed with tight fitting lid. Anyone complaining about capacity needs to understand what “full capacity without tea leaves” means. I filled mine to the lip where the lid rests and it held right at 120 grams (ml) of water.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Ja******, 2023-02-06 07:59 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This stuff is great. For the price, it really can’t be beat. I’ve tried all the other matchas in this lineup including Wako, which is very good, but for the price I think this is the best option. I buy a bunch at a time and freeze them so it lasts me for months.
Ar******, 2023-01-23 06:15 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I basically want you to imagine a maraschino cherry with some bramble and bamboo. It's essentially what you would imagine a sweet cherry tree leaf to taste like. It's just amazing! It's a tea to savor and enjoy. The smell is heavenly, the taste is smooth and satisfying. It literally hits the spot. Probably the best non-tea I've had. No doubt I'm gonna be coming back to this! I encourage to give it a try, it's just so good.
Ma******, 2023-01-22 22:54 JST, POLAND
This matcha tastes different than ceremonial grade matcha, has a fresh seaweed fragrance, but is really nice and smooth, with just a little bitternes served as matcha latte ( with oat or soy milk). And whats most important when it comes to decaf matcha you can enjoy this matcha after 3 pm without disturbing sleep in the night.
Sa******, 2023-01-17 08:11 JST, HUNGARY
Absolutely delicious. The roasted aroma and flavour is perfect and not at all overwhelming. I was worried it would end up smokier in taste, but that is definitely not the case. The colour (as I brewed it) is quite a bit darker than what is shown on the photos, but I brewed in a mug rather than teapot, so odds are if i drank from a small teacup it would appear lighter. I would happily order this again in the future, for a unique black tea.
Da******, 2023-01-16 12:35 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Was given a free sample, liked it a lot and bought a kilo. It's not as good as the Sencha Seiga from 2021 (maybe nothing is), but it's better than the Sencha Seiga from 2022. That was my previous favorite. The 500g that I stored in the freezer kept well. Has a good vacuum seal with very little air and smells very fresh. I brew it at the hotter end of the instructions, up to 3 times, but the 2nd is the best. Towards the end of the bag, you get finer pieces of tea which make a darker, richer brew that is really enjoyable. Using water above 80C will ruin this one, so make sure you can control the temperature.
Da******, 2022-12-27 05:42 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
An excellent matcha at a very reasonable price, easily competes with many more expensive ones. It is very smooth and lump-free even this late in the year. Whisks perfectly with hot or cold water. One of the best matcha values out there.
Pa******, 2022-12-27 00:47 JST, ARGENTINA
Very nice and light chashaku with the shape of Hounsai Daisosho´s own design. It is not an original Hounsai Daisosho´s chashaku (which cost much more and are marked by the Master and boxed in a bamboo container) but a replica. Maybe this should be stated in the ad to prevent not tea specialists to be mistaken.
Ad******, 2022-12-24 18:01 JST, SINGAPORE
Warm, vanilla and floral smell, initial taste is mild, with slight astringency. Aftertaste is a fruity, chalky, powdery taste - a bit like a mild donut peach. It pretty much tastes like what the tasting notes say. Overall a good brew.
Da******, 2022-12-22 19:52 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I have reviewed this tea several times since 2016 and rated it 5 stars every time. It has been extremely consistent from year to year even in bad seasons when other teas have not been so good. It has also remained fresh when purchased later in the year unlike teas from most other vendors which noticeably degrade in freshness as the months pass. This order is as flavorful and aromatic as previous purchases have been, still a 5 star tea and highly recommended.
Da******, 2022-12-17 03:34 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This hojicha is strong in color but rather light in taste even when using 208 F water temp and 75 second brewing time. The roasted flavor is there but is subdued compared to other hojicha that I've had in the past. There is absolutely no bitterness which makes it easy to brew. It is also inexpensive making it a good value if you find a lighter taste to be acceptable.
Japanese organic oolong tea with a floral fragrance and smoked aroma
Da******, 2022-12-13 21:12 JST, THAILAND
Unmistakably oolong. This tea made the first impression of red (aka. black) tea but it's true identity is definitely oolong, creamy milky texture with fruity aroma and quick returning sweetness with some malty tone especially in first two infusions. Deep baking also resulted in coffee notes in the finish.
Sz******, 2022-12-07 05:28 JST, ROMANIA
I am impressed that I found a pure Tie Guan Yin agrotype oolong, it reminds me of the first cha wang tgy grades I started drinking in 2007, everybody loves it, it is the introduction tea for many tea lovers, once you experience a good one like this you are hooked and sucked in the tea world, and there is no turning back... This tea is pure and strong it is stable throughout the infusions, I used a thin walled Chao Zhou kettle and a red clay yixibg that I seasoned for 15 years only with green oolongs, I would like to invite anyone to drink tea with me, it is a feel good tea.
Sz******, 2022-12-07 05:16 JST, ROMANIA
Absolutely stellar high mountain oolong, I am impressed Sazen tea, it is getting harder to find such good examples, the leaves are dark green healthy, the stems are soft, it has a stcky tea juice covering the inside if the teabag, that is when you know you got the good stuff, I brewed 6 infusions, it can easely go 8, I was tired and it was late, but the body sensation was calm and meditative, it just reminded me why I love drinking tea.
Premium Matcha Tea Scoop made of more than 200 year-old bamboo
Ta******, 2022-12-04 02:27 JST, CANADA
much larger and flatter than the photo, and also doesn't look as round around the sides as displayed. This kyusu can hold a lot of tea... I think I might have misunderstood the capacity, or perhaps I did not read the measurements properly because it is a lot larger than I expected. Therefore, I will only use this pot for when there are at least 3 people to drink tea. The craftsmanship is perfect, and it's very easy to serve tea without dribbling. The lid is basically airtight, and the pot is very easy to clean, there is lots of space for the leaves to open. Very good kyusu, will probably be my favourite one for guests.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Lu******, 2022-11-16 10:17 JST, BELGIUM
A very strong aroma with a slightly underwhelming flavour. Let me first of all say that this is a good tea. Definitely if you look at the price point. Further more I would recommend that people pick it up if at the end of there purchases they still have a couple of $ to spare. This being said I find this tea a bit underwhelming. The first time you smell the wet leaves your greeted by the intens aroma of roasted malt, wood and hazelnut. It's therefore sad that when you then drink it its very soft and all those heavy note's are muted down to a mere shadow of it's aroma. Now the notes that are there are very pleasant and spot on. It's just not something I would expect from a first, second or third brew. It's more in line with what I would expect from a 5th to 7th brew in regards to intensity. So get this one when you have some money to spend. If not I would personally go for something different. Still the price point of this tea is insanely good so maybe do get it. Just don't expect miracles from the tea.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Ve******, 2023-08-29 01:48 JST, CROATIA
I've tried boiling this tea (or adding a lot, and I mean A LOT of leaves to boiling hot water and leaving them for five minutes and it turned out to be a much stronger taste). This way it is actually one of my favorite teas.
Lu******, 2022-11-16 03:14 JST, BELGIUM
Lovely little tea. Very good price quality mark. A very hazelnut aroma with a nice creamy texture. It lingers for a good amount time. I like to drink it when it's way too late for a regular tea due to it's low caffeine content. It's also a fun tea to give to people how are not such avid tea drinkers. There always surprised by its taste. Personally I like going hard on this tea and do some really long and hot infusions but you can just as well do a more traditional gung fu brew with this one.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Jo******, 2022-11-15 04:37 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Narino, how do I begin to describe this joy of a matcha? A splendid wave of aromatic marine kelp greets you with every opening of the tin. The first taste that I register is a strong salutation of deep oceanic umami, followed by the undeniable natural sweetness of fresh summer corn. There is a very pleasant finish that my palate reads as creamy and almost dairy-like. Narino is truly the crown jewel of Okunoyama Tea Garden.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
An******, 2022-11-15 01:01 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Incredibly smooth even at a lower temperature. Not the cheapest but a true treat that always impresses. Good as koicha but perhaps my favorite for usucha. Always grab a can when I reorder. A great matcha that is definitely worth a try!!
Ta******, 2022-11-08 02:19 JST, CANADA
Doesn't taste like the regular matcha, but lets be honest, we are lucky to have a low caffeine option on a tea that is notoriously high in caffeine. To me, the flavours have notes of oat and marine vegetables, not my favourite, but still pleasant enough to drink... I am quite caffeine sensitive myself, so if i want to indulge in a second cup of matcha later in the day before meditating, I would reach for this one simply to avoid caffeine induced insomnia. You might want to add one extra scoop for usucha.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Asahi tea cultivar
Da******, 2022-11-07 17:57 JST, CZECH REPUBLIC
As usucha: the tea froths quickly, the foam has the colour of green peas. The bitterness of the infusion is lower but noticeable, trace astringency, umami medium, taste of fresh green pea soup, hazelnuts + herbs. There is a surprising medium to strong sweetness in the aftertaste, which is quite decent in length. As koicha: noticeably bitter, umami, reminiscent of dark high-percentage chocolate with a soup of fresh green peas and herbs. Pretty good matcha, but I'm not sure about the price/performance ratio.
Ru******, 2022-11-02 17:27 JST, INDONESIA
The finishing clay looks nicely hand-turned and aesthetically pleasing. Its weight indicates the ceramic wall is not a thin one. Overall size is large enough to hold an ample amount of non-japanese loose leaf teas as well. Cork lid doesn't provide a super air-tight seal, thus I prefer to use this for storing darker teas or deep roasted teas or aged/fermented teas.
Ru******, 2022-11-02 17:19 JST, INDONESIA
Predominant in ash aroma, but somewhat spicy with a touch of sweetness. Can't pin point exactly what they are. Seems to me this aroma more appropriate for public spaces the likes of office buildings and/or prayer houses. It can be calming, but not for relaxation. It has a distinct presence without being overwhelming.
Ru******, 2022-11-01 14:52 JST, INDONESIA
Lightweight. Size fits in my hand just right. Inner lid fits nicely tight but still opens with ease. Block print design has beautiful details. Outer paper lining texture on the canister gives a soft feel to the touch. I can only wish they have more designs available, for I would gladly collect them all.
Ru******, 2022-11-01 14:50 JST, INDONESIA
Lightweight. Size fits in my hand just right. Inner lid fits nicely tight but still opens with ease. Block print design has beautiful details. Outer paper lining texture on the canister gives a soft feel to the touch. I can only wish they have more designs available, for I would gladly collect them all.
Ru******, 2022-11-01 14:22 JST, INDONESIA
Soft and mellow with a cinnamon aroma. Soothing and relaxing, my preference for bedtime. I have difficulty in falling asleep and I find this particular aroma helps me to relax my mind. This is now my favorite incense from the several ones of Shoyeido that I have tried.
Ru******, 2022-11-01 13:55 JST, INDONESIA
Midly sweet in aroma. Super soft to a point it is almost non-noticeable, especially when one is preoccupied with other things. Suitable for when we want a lightness to the air of a room without having to constantly be reminded that there is incense burning.
Ru******, 2022-11-01 13:45 JST, INDONESIA
Mild and non-intrusive aroma, a mix of burned ash and freshness. There is an additional note that is somewhat floral and spicy at once, can't figure out what it is. I imagine it is suitable for the living room at home or an enclosed public space, as the aroma encourages concentration and/or contemplation.
Jö******, 2022-09-17 02:48 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
An intense tea and flavourful tea. After I brewed this as recommended before, going down to 5g of tea gave me a more enjoyable experience. It's less overwhelming, and it reminds me of some of the matcha teas I've had.
Da******, 2022-09-16 01:12 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Game changer for me. I drink 2 cups matcha a day and would drink more and later but avoid caffeine after about 3 pm. With this, I can have a 3rd or 4th cup after just before dinner and it doesn't affect my sleep. As others have noted, the flavor is a bit diminished from the process but adding a bit more than your normally would use can compensate. (I usually use about 1 tsp to 8 oz water, with this I'll use about 1 1/2 tsp). I drink matcha partly for the flavor but largely for the health benefits, so this fits the bill for me. Recommend to anyone who is caffeine sensitive or for people who want to have caffeine later in the day.
Ma******, 2022-09-12 02:48 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A very lovely and refreshing tea. Brewed at the recommended 6 grams, 150 ml at 70 deg C - 40 seconds. First brew yielded a light chartreuse, mild, smooth, with an almost undetectable tartness, becoming very evident as the tongue cools down. Second brew at the same recommended temperature and about 40 second as well; color became more robust, a darker chartreuse with a higher yellow tint. Flavors become more noticeable with an underwhelming complimentary tartness and a hint of sweetness. A mild and welcoming astringency with a bitter-sweet finish coating the tongue. First impression, this tea is very smooth in flavor and to the senses. The bitterness is noticeable at tip of tongue on the initial sip of the second brew and gives a mild coating over the tongue of bitter-sweet and mild tartness. The flavor of this tea is more acute when the brew is at 47 deg C. The dry leaves are beautiful, deep green and long. It has a very mild scent of lemon. The wet leaves were a brilliant and deep light green and gave a fresh scent of the beginnings of Spring. This tea was brewed in a clay 250 ml Houhin. The roomy houhin gave ample room for the leaves to bloom and space in the teapot to add more oxygen to the brewing process. I would like to brew it in a Shibo but most of my Shibos are maxed at 100-120ml. I think the wideness of a Shibo would give the tea a more robust initial flavor, particularly since a Shibo would not allow for space between the surface of the brew and the lid, hence limiting the oxygen exchange and keeping the heat more directly into the leaves.
ma******, 2022-09-01 16:03 JST, ROMANIA
Great matcha, lovely colour and presentation. It is more on the subtle area taste wise, this needs higher quantity to satisfy you, so i feel that Eiju is a better deal with slightly more creamy/sweeter taste than Choan, i could be a bit wrong since i had the Eiju 2 years ago. Now don't get me wrong, this Choan is a top notch matcha, just that i feel the special seasonal matchas are a better deal and deliver more character at a much lower price. Will i buy the Choan again ? probably not, but i'm glad i tested it and will enjoy it till the last drop ;-).
アニ******, 2022-08-29 13:31 JST, JAPAN
This is definitely magic. Sweet and spicy but not overwhelmingly. It's a soothing, beautiful scent. This is what I usually burn when I have guests coming over, and I always end up having to gift them a few sticks. :) One of the reasons I like this so much is that it reminds me of the incense they use in the Silver Pavilion in Kyoto. It's great to have a scent that instantly takes me to places I love the most in Japan.
Entry grade usucha (thin matcha), also perfect for flavoring soft drinks
He******, 2022-08-14 06:35 JST, AUSTRALIA
Exceptional quality for its price! I keep coming back to this whenever I'm running out of matcha, even though I have tried many other ceremonial grade matchas from Sazen's wide selection. Despite being classified as culinary grade, Deluxe Chino no Sakae serves well on its own as a pure matcha drink, no sight of bitterness with beautiful foam. To my nose, this matcha smells creamy and rich leaning toward milky notes, which is perfectly suited to latte drinks. I recommended it to every friend asking me which matcha they should buy for long-term use.
Ri******, 2022-08-09 03:54 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
There is no matcha at this price point on Sazen that rivals this matcha. Sometimes sweet, sometimes strong Asahi characteristics, but always smooth and creamy. It's a special matcha with a memorable flavor profile that you typically find from a matcha 50 to 100% more expensive per gram. This jumped into my top 5 favorite matchas ever because of that combo.
Tu******, 2022-08-04 13:01 JST, AUSTRIA
Dissapointing tea. Buy this only if you are a beginner to matcha. The tea is bland and lackluster. If you are like me and you like matcha with a some substantial flavor, buy shoukaku or Zuisen no Shiro On the otherhand. If you like matcha that not bitter and bland, buy this one. If you try to find non-bitter matcha, its easy to get stuck in a total non-flavor mode. Just not for me
Tu******, 2022-08-04 13:00 JST, AUSTRIA
Dissapointing tea. Buy this only if you are a beginner to matcha. The tea is bland and lackluster. If you are like me and you like matcha with a some substantial flavor, buy shoukaku or Zuisen no Shiro On the otherhand. If you like matcha that not bitter and bland, but this one. Just not for me
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Ca******, 2023-01-09 04:25 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I agree I do not care for this Matcha .It has to me, a bitter aftertaste.It is prrof you get what pay for.The least expensive Matcha I have ever bought from Sazen(or elsewhere) and it shows. will probably give the rest of the can away.Too bad we cant get samples before we buy
Pleasant refreshing green tea from the first harvest of the year, 2022
Da******, 2022-07-26 09:56 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is an exceptionally good sencha for the money. Smooth and flavorful with nice looking dark green leaf, little to no dust. I brewed with 158F water temperature for about 45 seconds and am very happy with the results.
Ja******, 2022-07-21 12:42 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I love this matcha bowl and I've been using it every day since I received it. It's considered a small size, but there is plenty of room to whisk and to drink. It's beautiful to look at with the cherry blossom design and special to hold knowing someone made it with their hands. I like looking at and feeling the ridges that go around it. It's a work of art and functional too.
Very delicious tea between koicha (thick tea) and usucha (thin tea) grade
Handmade tokoname teapot decorated with orchid flowers
Ja******, 2022-06-28 10:21 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is the most beautiful little teapot I've ever seen, which I thought when I saw it in the picture, and it's even prettier in person! The detail is striking and I'm astounded at how delicate it is. That someone made this with their hands makes it all the more special. I've already initiated it when I received it today and made a tea ceremony for my son and me. I look forward to much peace, joy, and beauty through tea with this special teapot!
Powdered green tea favoured by Yuyusai, the 15th generation grand tea master of Omotesenke
Sh******, 2022-06-10 15:04 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Delightful and strong roasted flavor. Great for making milk drinks late at night since it's lower in caffeine. The smallest pack is tiny - we finished it within 3 weeks. Should have bought more from the very beginning!
Da******, 2022-06-08 00:22 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Purchased 6 months ago but just opened, it is still fresh and lump free. This is a very smooth matcha. It whisks perfectly using either hot or cold water. Great in the summer using cold spring water and adding some ice. An excellent value!
Ta******, 2022-06-04 23:44 JST, CANADA
perfect kyusu for sampling this years shincha! fresh first harvest, and a fresh new kyusu. Only caveat is that the lid does not align with the rim as perfectly as my other kyusu, and some tea will drip out of the lid if you pour too quickly. However if you pour slow to avoid this, the tea will travel down the side of the spout, so it takes a bit more focus to pour from this kyusu elegantly for guests. This might just be my luck though, so give it a try! Its flat shape is great for trying the shincha at a low temperature.
Sa******, 2022-05-29 12:05 JST, INDONESIA
Agree with the reviews that you can really taste the nutty and earthy flavor in this tea. No after taste bitterness. Very pleasant indeed. I also found it harder to create full foam compared to other matchas that I had. So, I welcome any advice on how to do it. Regardless, it is now in my fav list of matcha
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Sh******, 2024-10-24 10:43 JST, INDONESIA
sis, from indonesia right here. How long the shipping takes ?
Br******, 2022-05-26 08:03 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Nice Tea! I would recommend brewing this at a lower temperature if you are sensitive to bitter things. At 70-75 I got nice results. Nice full umami flavor and fresh scent. Even the 3rd steep was still flavorful with only a slight pleasant astringency. I probably wouldn't go past 4 steeps though lol.
Ci******, 2022-05-14 04:34 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I wanted to spread the love through matcha, and originally I was going to assemble my own set that has a bowl, a measuring spoon and not a chashuka, a sieve, a chasen, a chasen holder, and a small measuring cup. This set has almost everything I want and is beautifully wrapped and presented! I also got a mini measuring cup (https://www.oxo.com/categories/cooking-and-baking/food-prep-tools/measuring-scales/mini-squeeze-pour-silicone-measuring-cup-466.html) which fits inside the gift box perfectly!
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Qu******, 2022-05-11 04:30 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The Narino cultivar is truly unlike any other matcha, at any price. The depth of umami is incredible and way above its pay grade. It holds up wonderfully as either koicha or usucha, which is rare. It definitely tastes of the sea. In a good way, like an ocean breeze with a hint of fish, seaweed, and salt. I adore it, but it also might not be for those who prefer a lighter matcha.
Ma******, 2022-05-09 04:02 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Ohmi Sencha Saeakari - one of the best tasting Sencha's purchased from Sazen. The tea has a brighter than usual flavor compared to some of the Senchas like Shuppin Sencha Hana Jirushi or the Chiran Tokujō Fukamushicha or Asamiya Yabukita. Considering that the Ohmi Sencha grows at 300 meters compared to the latter tea that thrives at 500 meters, it has a definitely unique characteristic of scent and flavor for a tea that grows at a lower elevation. The initial tea soup is a lovely bright chartreuse with a light yellow tint and the dry leaves in a warmed teapot releases a very bright aroma with hints of sweetness of freshly hulled rice. The aroma is completely absorbed into the brew, I noticed only very mild hints of the scent after the pour. The soup when brewed at second and third time still retains its color, clarity and sparkle. The tea leaves unfurl in stages with the first, second and third brew yielding its flavors gradually with each subsequent brew. The second photo (right) shows the leaves after the first brew and the left photo shows the leaves after the second brew. Left photo is of 1st brew (in left teacup) and 2nd brew (in right teacup). The brew tastes remarkably different when it is warm versus cold. The tea has a sweetness on its first round brewed at the prescribed 5 grams weight, temperature of 70 deg Celcius for 60 seconds. I also made the tea with 6 grams and the flavor is more notable and robust. Caffeine rise is slow and smooth, clears the mind and calms the thoughts. I prefer the sweetness and flavor of the tea at 6 grams as it retains itself with the second and third brews albeit a little less notable. Astringency is more marked at 5 grams than at 6 grams but palatable and smooth. Also, I observed a mild bitterness at 5 grams when the tea is tepid. At 6 grams, a tepid or cold brew, the bitterness is balanced beautifully by the sweet hints of the tea. It is not a tea that has a remarkable green scent or chlorophyll like some senchas, which to me is the most unique aspect of the Ohmi Sencha. The only time I observed a green scent was when the leaves after the third brew cooled to room temperature had a hint, very mild, of fresh baby spinach. I did not reheat the initial water used to brew the second and third time - the tea is very smooth and the overall flavors of sweetness, astringency and bitterness gave a smooth, soothing and mild finish. The leaves after the third brew when cooled to room temperature had a hint, very mild, of fresh baby spinach. Very well worth the try and looking forward to the 2022 harvest of this tea. Sazen's service, packaging and shipping as per usual is top rate. Thank you.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Jo******, 2022-04-30 02:07 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Intense arboreal scent whenever I open the tin. Upon tasting it, I am greeted with powerful floral notes that my nose reads as jasmine or hyacinth. There is pleasant vegetal finish of fresh Spring greens. Aoarashi is the ultimate everyday daily matcha for those who want something economical combined with great taste and aromatics.
Entry grade tea for making usucha (thin tea) that is well-liked among matcha beginners
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Ch******, 2022-04-28 16:31 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Bought this for matcha latte. It's astringent and tart but lacks the depth and body of the Isuzu. If you like this flavor profile then go for the Unryu Ceremonial Grade Matcha Hokoen, it's a bit easier to digest. May come back and try this next year as things change seasonally.
Da******, 2022-04-22 11:19 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I really liked the deep flavor of this tea. Have also experimented with adding matcha to sencha on my own and shaking it up in the bag, to achieve a similar result. If there is a green tea that is weak in flavor, it can be saved by the addition.
Da******, 2022-04-22 11:13 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Pleased with this. It's great for when you want to make many small brews. As the other reviewer mentioned, if you want to make one big cup, you'll need something larger. This can be an advantage sometimes as it forces you to slow down with the tea. And if it doesn't decant fast enough, one can learn to lift the lid very slightly with your thumb as you pour it. The art quality of the finish is very beautiful in its simplicity. If you ask, you can choose specifically the one you want from a photo of them, since they are all a little different.
Da******, 2022-04-22 10:51 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This was my second pu-erh experience. I cut the orange in half and used half of the contents to brew. I made 13 small 20 second brews and could have done more, the flavor and color was still strong on the last one. The first brews had a very strong bitter orange peel flavor. By the fifth that has mellowed and combined smoothly with the flavor of the tea. There is some dark spice in the background, slightly like cloves. And through the whole time there is an earthy scent that you won't find often elsewhere, a bit like earthy rubber. It doesn't have a plum or raisin fruitiness like the previous pu-erh I tried. Maybe it would be there if you left out the peel. It's definitely a tea you could start in the morning and continue drinking the rest of the day. I've not encountered one that could go as long as this. I look forward to the next try of it where I'm sure I'll learn something new about it.
This high grade matcha, translated ‘thousand happiness’, is perfect for koicha (thick tea)
Th******, 2022-04-21 23:56 JST, NETHERLANDS
I was initially drawn to the concept of GABA tea for its calming effects, but I actually really like the flavor as well. This one has a very buttery mouthfeel and earthy and grassy notes. It's very different from all the other sencha I got. I feel like this tea might be a bit more calming than others, but that can very well be placebo.
th******, 2022-04-21 18:50 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Very pleasant, mild, foams nicely, I got a little bit of a floral taste. Very enjoyable at this price point and quite a surprise. I use a nesspresso frother to heat and mix in the morning and this did not clump at all.
Ru******, 2022-04-19 12:47 JST, INDONESIA
Sturdy pot with a generous volume for liquid. A good filtering that gives a nice flow. Nice depth to the height of the pot allows usage for other types of tea other than Japanese green teas. Weight is a tad heavier than I would have liked. Overall size of pot may not be suitable for small hands.
Ru******, 2022-04-19 12:31 JST, INDONESIA
Simple and sturdy built with a nice flow. Carries a generous volume of liquid with a good filtering capability. The plain matted black look compliments green teas. Weight is a tad hefty, slightly heavier than I would have liked. Size is also quite wide, may not be suitable for smaller hands.
Ri******, 2022-04-14 01:55 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Wow. I thought this tea would have "notes" of sweet potato. No way. There's no mistaking the flavor nor aroma. I bought a 500g bag thinking it would be a suitable daily green tea, but that doesn't give this tea credit. I bought a handful of other senchas at much higher price points and find myself reaching for this one more often than the others. It is a sweet sencha that will bring a smile to your face. Maybe you should surprise yourself with this as well?
12 single serving oolong teas expertly selected from the renown Phoenix Mountains
Da******, 2022-04-13 01:58 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
All 12 teas in this Dancong sampler were excellent or better. The suggested brewing method resulted in tea too weak for my taste so instead I used 5 grams, 150ml, 194F and 90 to 120 seconds for all 12 samples. I got at least 4 infusions from each. I used only Japanese glazed clay and porcelain tea pots, no unglazed clay. The Seiji Ushirode Kyusu I purchased from Sazen was used for most of the samples and it gave great results. I'm glad I bought 2 of these samplers, they are well worth the price!
Yu******, 2022-04-12 07:13 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
At first it has a slight toasted taste almost reminiscent of coffee or toasted rice, then it has a really long, mellow, dreamy after taste. Quite unique compared to the other matcha we've tried. We're in love with this one!
Ar******, 2022-04-10 14:08 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Super spring-like. As soon as you open the package, you will be blown away by the smell of the sweetness of spring, it literally smells like a field full of flowers. Taste is smooth and has a delicate taste, definitely make sure not the burn this matcha with too-hot of water. I ordered this last year and I impend to order it again next year, great way to start off the beautiful season of spring.
Mo******, 2022-04-09 04:23 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I Love this chawan. It has a total of 10 cranes going all around the outside and two on the inside. There aren't too many colors. Mainly gold, white and the black on the cranes. The look is classic. Feels just right in the hand and the white gives it a clean feel. Glad I added this beautiful piece to my collection.
Handmade matcha tea bowl with hand-painted wisteria flowers by Yamaoka Zenko
Mo******, 2022-04-09 04:18 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This chawan is stunning! There is a lot of work that went into this because the colors are layered. Something different about this chawan is that it is finished in silver. Most chawans are finished in gold, this one is finished with silver accents and a silver rim. The purple and blueish tones are beautiful and the pattern goes all around the inside and outside. Nice cream color and easy to hold and drink from. It is simple but elegant!
Mo******, 2022-04-09 04:10 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This treat is amazing. The sugar is hard initially but as soon as it gets 'wet', it is so fine it melts in your mouth. It's sugar but quite good. You get nice sized portions. I can eat 2 or 3 at a time, LOL...if I'm not careful I go overboard. Very tasty!!
Mo******, 2022-04-09 00:02 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is a beautiful bowl. The color is very white. Almost has a pearly look to it. It is very soft. The art is beautiful and the colors are rich and varied. The dots on the cherry blossoms are raised, As you caress the bowl you can feel them. I love how it was painted so that one of the leaves on the insides just barely seems to touch the matcha. Excellent artistry! The matcha color really pops against the bright white of this bowl and all of the rich colors of the leaves. Cleverly designed all the way down to the base. When you're done, the green settles into all of the crackles and makes for an interesting final observation ( It washes out so no worries). This is a beautiful bowl at a very nice price. Happy to have it in my collection.
Ru******, 2022-04-05 14:54 JST, INDONESIA
Brief (few seconds) steeps in 70 Celsius water. Liquor is an almost clear light yellow-green in look, but becomes more vibrant in hue by the 3rd infusion onwards. Taste is soft with an umami sweetness and a vegetal note. Wet leaves are freshly green, giving off a notable steamed seaweed in aroma. Flavor starts to mellow down by the 4th infusion. A longer steep (1 minute) in the next infusion gives a more pronounced vegetal note, though still mellow.
Jo******, 2022-04-05 09:20 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Harukasumi truly encapsulates its name: “Spring Mist”. The aroma strongly reminds me of the scent of fresh young blades of grass showered with the first rains of April. The moment water makes contact with this verdant green powder there is a powerful wave that my nose reads as oceanic kelp, with the ever so slightest hint of Sakura blossoms. The taste is one of the most thought provoking matcha flavor profiles that I have encountered. There is an ever-present unmistakable umami throughout each sip that translates as savory nori, with a strong yet pleasant vegetal aftertaste that is reminiscent of tangy fresh tomatoes. This offering from Marukyu Koyamaen perfectly captures the tranquil and vivacious essence of Spring.
Ma******, 2022-03-28 01:56 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The Gyokko Kodai shiboridashi was worth the investment. This is my fourth shiboridashi from Sazen and found that the function all of these different styles of vessels were excellent. The Gyokko Kodai pours beautifully - fluid steam, right down to the last drop. I tested this vessel with 5 grams and 3 grams of tea and the pour from this shiboridashi flowed easily out of its delicate lip and did not leak from around the lid - even with a marked degree of tilt. The vessel was warm and comfortable to handle when I poured the 60 degrees Celcius (140 deg F) water into the vessel to steep tea. There was no unevenness of heat distribution when you cupped the shiboridashi. The knob on the lid was temperate. The tea leaves distributed itself quite evenly without clumping at the lip during the pour - see image is after 4th steep (3 grams tea) with no manual manipulation of tea distribution after pour. It was evident with 5 grams and 3 grams of tea. The vessel's capacity is stated at 2.7 oz. It yielded 2 oz of brewed tea for me. Aesthetically, it is simplistic elegance and the dark clay gives a very stark contrast against the steeped green tea leaves. The clay is smooth and bowl cups comfortably in the palm and weight of the vessel with and without tea in it does not bear any remarkable or noted changed. The initial tea used for this Gyokko Kodai vessel was a Tencha and the next day a Shuppin Hana. It is definitely excellent for the Senchas styles.
BL******, 2022-03-25 21:24 JST, MALAYSIA
I like my tea strong, so I went with slightly less water. It's an okay pick with a fresh, buttery, sweet umami nose. Not the best color, but it's acceptable for me. On the palate, its sweet, buttery umami flavors with a smooth and rounded licorice high note with a lingering finish. There were hints of fresh vegetal and earthy mineral flavors lingering as well. Remember, I steeped with less water. The "Ohmi Gyokuro" scores higher on my scale but so does its cost. Happy drinking =)
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
BL******, 2022-03-25 14:31 JST, MALAYSIA
A pick that is comparatively equal to the price you are paying. For me its a good choice that gives a kick but in a good way. I guess that's where the name 50 bells comes from. As mentioned by many, its an excellent everyday pick. It's easy to whisk, has an acceptable color, good nose as described by some and on the palate, its just as described by those before me. Surely beats my morning coffee =)
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
BL******, 2022-03-25 14:31 JST, MALAYSIA
A pick that is comparatively equal to the price you are paying. For me its a good choice that gives a kick but in a good way. I guess that's where the name 50 bells comes from. As mentioned by many, its an excellent everyday pick. It's easy to whisk, has an acceptable color, good nose as described by some and on the palate, its just as described by those before me. Surely beats my morning coffee =)
Ru******, 2022-03-24 15:48 JST, INDONESIA
Brief (few seconds) steeps in 70 Celsius water. Liquor is an almost-clear yellowish color tone in look. Taste is refreshing with a light umami sweetness. The gentle vegetal note has no astringency nor bitterness. Mouthfeel is slightly dry and sticky. Wet leaves are freshly green giving off a steamed seaweed aroma. Overall flavor mellows down by the 4th infusion. Astringency starts to become noticeable when steeped longer (30 seconds) in the next infusion, although still mild.
Ru******, 2022-03-23 16:16 JST, INDONESIA
Brief (few seconds) steeps in 90 Celsius water. Liquor is an opaqued bright yellow in look. Taste is surprisingly mellow and sweet, with no astringency nor bitterness. It has a mild umami-sweet aftertaste that is rather nutty and root vegetable-like. An unexpected taste for a 'sencha' given there is no vegetal note at all, despite the high temperature use for the brew. Mouthfeel is somewhat sticky and dry, encouraging salivation. Wet leaves are mostly muted green leaves with some twigs, giving off a steamed potato aroma. Flavor starts to soften by the 4th infusion, though still no bitterness with a much longer steep (1 minute) in the next infusion. This unusual sencha gives an instant relaxed and sleepy effect.
Mi******, 2022-03-23 00:20 JST, CANADA
This tea has a very strong roasted flavour when steeping it - very similar to coffee. The actual taste is more mild than the smell. I was hoping that the beans and seaweed would give it a heartier flavour, but it didn't taste too much different to regular genmaicha to me.
Mi******, 2022-03-23 00:13 JST, CANADA
I purchased this teapot to see if a clay teapot would actually affect the taste of the tea. I'm by no means an expert tea taster, but I did find that there was a marked difference. It seems to tone down some of the tannin taste - the flavour seems to be a little milder. I have tried both genmaicha and oolong teas. To be honest, I'm not sure if I like the effect that it has, but perhaps that's because I haven't found the right tea yet. For the teas that I've tried so far, I feel that it dulls the taste rather than improving it. Esthetically, it's a pretty cute shape - short and stubby. It's neat to be able to see the tea steeping and control the angle as you pour to prevent spills because there is no lid. You need to be careful when drying off the tea pot because the brushed pattern on the outside catches fabric fibers very easily. The ceramic filter in the teapot has a very fine mesh so this could be a good option for tea with smaller leaves.
Mi******, 2022-03-22 23:57 JST, CANADA
I chose this teapot because of it's restrained and elegant appearance. The pictures are a perfect representation of how it appears in reality. This is a very nice tea pot to handle. It's possible to pour one-handed if you're clever about it. I like the fact that it has the ceramic filter so there is no need to worry about a metal taste in the tea. I use a 300ML mug. If I fill the teapot to 90% full, then it is able to fill my mug with a few mm to spare so I can carry it without spilling. The spout does not dribble when pouring, but I do notice that a drop or two of condensation will leak out from under the lid when trying to drain the last bit of tea from the teapot.
Mi******, 2022-03-22 23:48 JST, CANADA
I've only ever had Ujinotsuyu brand genmaicha before this, so that's my benchmark although it's obviously much cheaper quality. I found the Yuki Ise tea has a milder taste. It's probably because the tea leaves are higher quality and there is less brown rice in this blend. In the end, it was a bit of a disappointment for me because I look for genmaicha to get that unique roasted flavour.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Ro******, 2022-03-14 01:44 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Was more than a bit impressed by the distinctive flavor of this matcha. The taste varied slightly with each preparation (the effect of different bowls?) but was always characterized by a full, slightly sweet, round creaminess balanced by a light bitterness--something I'm fond of--and no sourness. Sometimes there was an ever so slight burnt note which made for a flavor reminiscent of toasted bread. Often there was an astringent finish. Makes me want to try other matchas from this maker.
Powdered green tea favoured by Koshin Sokei, the 12th generation grand tea master of Enshuryu
Ad******, 2022-03-03 18:33 JST, SINGAPORE
Dark green, forest green colour. Strong bitter smell, mossy and seaweed aroma when whisking. Pleasant and rich flavour, clean without being overly bitter or having any distinct aftertaste. This matcha reminds me of a cool forest in the night with the smell of petrichor. Goes surprisingly well with milk in a latte, unlike some other matcha in their price range which would be best enjoyed without. Good, highly recommended
Bo******, 2022-02-25 17:36 JST, SLOVAK REPUBLIC
This is rlly good tea for this price... ~11$ per 100g! 30cents for 2x 150ml cups... Amazing price for daily drinker...If you looking for shaded tea for extremly low price.... this is it... but in no way it cant beat random 15$ per 50g teas.
Ma******, 2022-02-22 05:33 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Chiran Tokujo Fuksmushicha (CTF): The dry tea has a mild scent of peaches. It is processed to a much finer cut the brew yielded more of the tea particles/dust into the soup forming tea clouds. (Image is of CTF brew) Package brewing recommended at 70 Celsius for 30 . seconds. The taste is quite refreshing especially for a first morning cuppa. The caffeine rise is almost undetectable - slow and calming- clears and focus the mind without the jitters of urgency. The tea soup has a hue of Chartreuse, medium clarity and a tinge of sparkle with tea clouds at the bottom of the cup. The second cup yielded a muddier hue of green with more obvious tea clouds from the tea particles. This tea does not strain well with the silken mesh I normally use so I resorted to the finest metal mesh strainer. You will observe as the tea clouds begin to gather concentratedly at the bottom of the cup, the nature of the tea particles begin to change in how it gathers - becomes stringy and the sparkle of the brew is somewhat restored. The flavor is smooth on the first brew with a mild chlorophyll taste that is more obvious on the second brew. The second cup has a very slight astringency at the back of the tongue and a hint of seaweed. The astringency is more obvious when the tea is cooled. This tea was recommended by Sazen. While it is eons away from the usual steamed Sencha tea from Kagoshima that I normally drink and not easily something that I would substitute, this CTF can stand on its own for a good morning cuppa. I like the mildness of the caffeine rise. I would like to taste this from their 2022 stash. Thank you for the suggestion. Asamiya Yabukita: Initial impression gave a Mild salty flavor of the sea with a clean hint of green. The scent of the tea is again a very mild green of fresh leaves. The second brew opened the leaves a little more and yielded a bolder salty flavor and the brew had a more intense greenish hue to it. This was sample sent probably from the 2021 tea harvest. The caffeine content is pretty strong just from the initial 1 oz cup. Clear tea soup - no dregs during the 60 second brew from the shiroboridashi to the justice pot. Water was at 80 deg Celsius as specified. While I do like the tea but it is not a choice that would compel me to want to buy it as part of my seasonal tea stash. It is great to have as a First Aid tea stash for a quick and rapid pick up. It has all of what I look for in this Sencha style tea - clarity and sparkle in the brew , clean tea soup with no evidence of being over processed that when you brew it the dregs don’t strain properly. However, it lacks the bolder greener flavor that I favor in a Sencha tea. The caffeine spike is too strong for me especially for a morning cuppa - it hits the adrenals quite rapidly and I would suggest this if you had a night of overindulgence in food and alcohol hence the First Aid stash. Thank you to Sazen for this sample. The package it came in was elegant and very thoughtful.
Ro******, 2022-02-18 22:18 JST, GERMANY
Enigmatic sencha with out-of-this world taste. Reminds me a wild white tea (Camellia taliensis). It’s fragrant, extra sweet and smooth. The texture is thick and brothy. I brew it in glass, 7 gram for 500 ml 80-85 degrees C and 1 minute the first brew (on the photo).
Jo******, 2022-02-18 14:23 JST, SINGAPORE
This tea definitely surprised me, it isn't as sweet as the previous dianhongs i had but it had a complexity to it that dianhongs generally don't. There isn't an after taste to it though that i find is pretty signature to old tree teas even when brewing with double the leaves. I feel that should be noteworthy for those expecting that effect for buying this tea!
Ru******, 2022-02-16 12:42 JST, INDONESIA
Brief (few seconds) steeps in 70 Celsius water. Liquor is opaqued bright green in color. Taste is a nicely pronounced sweet umami with no bitterness. Mouthfeel is slightly sticky, encouraging to drink more. Wet leaves are freshly green, giving off a mild aroma of cooked seaweed. Strength of infusion starts to mellow down by 4-5th infusion, and still no sign of bitterness with a longer steep on the 6th infusion.
Jo******, 2022-02-11 11:13 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Too many people on here trying to impress with philosophical drivel, which offers nothing useful to others. If you like an earthy black tea, with a hint of smokiness to it then Rosecha is your tea. If you want a Japanese black tea that is more sweet and fruity, then choose the Yame Koucha.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Asahi tea cultivar
Powdered green tea favoured by Koshin Sokei, the 12th generation grand tea master of Enshuryu
Jo******, 2022-02-07 03:10 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This matcha truly represents the meaning of its name, whenever I open this tin I am greeted by a wonderful arboreal scent that reminds me of a forest cleansed in rain water. While this matcha lacks the natural sweetness that I prefer, it does not have any bitterness which is always a win for me. It has a very interesting flavor that I still cannot fully pin point. The best category that I can name this elusive flavor is the form of a color: pale alpine green. Ultimately, Kiyo no Mori was a very educational matcha for me.
This high grade matcha, translated ‘thousand happiness’, is perfect for koicha (thick tea)
Ri******, 2022-02-06 05:14 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Now that I've tried all the Hokoen matchas, the main discerning note is their lack of sweetness. Horii Shichimeien and Marukyu-Koyamaen have very recognizable sweetness after a certain price point - particularly once you approach this level. This matcha had notes of toasted rice and barley. I found it much more enjoyable than the Shoukaku, but it's not worth the price per gram in my opinion. Overall, like all Hokoen matchas, this is more of a savory matcha just, which just isn't my thing.
Bo******, 2022-02-06 05:08 JST, SLOVAK REPUBLIC
Bought it in January.. so pretty late... For this price range taste was good.. was doing one and half of tea spoon of tea for ~120ml of ~60c-65c water for 90s... and 2. brew 120s... 3. brew wasnt so tasty... later I started using 120sec for 1. brew.. Still 5 stars for taste/price...
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Do******, 2022-01-26 20:54 JST, JAPAN
Delicious tea to start the new year with. It has a deep flavor and the slight bitterness that slowly develops is very refreshing. The aftertaste is the best part, it is almost florwey. It has a very nice, vibrant green color. My favorite seasonal tea is still (and most likely always will be) Tsubokiri sencha, but this is another one that is definitely worth a try. Especially for those who enjoy the Japanese tea culture just as much as the tea itself.
St******, 2022-01-26 07:02 JST, BULGARIA
I wanted a darker holder. It matches my darker teaware (though looks good in any company) and seems more relaxed than the lighter, glazed stuff. I use it daily, it's well-made, but it's a very simple item that I feel should cost a bit less.
St******, 2022-01-26 05:36 JST, BULGARIA
I like how it handles, lid seals very well, the pour is pretty good. The handle is a bit small and not tapered at the end, so it digs a little bit into the skin, but since the whole thing is very light, it's barely noticeable. After a few uses, I'm very comfortable with it. Price-performance ratio is outstanding. Perfect brewing volume is anywhere between 120ml-150ml, a bit more or less is also OK. Filter is very fine for ceramic (I think as fukamushi-friendly as it gets for this type of filter), yet most of the time I can clean it by just running water through the spout (the important part is not to inadvertently push leaves in forcefully while emptying/cleaning it). I've also had to use the shower on a high-pressure setting a few times.
JAS qualified, organically cultivated matcha for making thin tea (usucha)
An******, 2022-01-21 08:40 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Love it, it is my favorite. I ordered 2 cans of 40g each. Shipped by FedEx. Took 5 days for FedEx to pickup from Japan, after than took only 2 (two) days to deliver!!!! No extra cost (such as Intl tax..). This is great. Next time I will try to order 4 cans and make sure total under 10K JPY , I wonder if still pay no Custom Tax in US? Anyone knows?
Be******, 2022-01-20 21:23 JST, UNITED KINGDOM
I must say I am quite disappointed by this particular shiboridashi although I've loved all of the other teaware I have bought from Sazen. It is beautiful but quite impractical for a number of reasons: The capacity is more like 150ml when 80% full (and 175ml when filled) than 100ml. Appreciate there may be differences in measuring the usable capacity of a shiboridashi but that is not really within the usual margin of error I expect when seeing the capacity in the listing. It's capacity would only be 100ml if you filled it about halfway up. The pour is also painfully slow even by shiboridashi standards. It takes about 30 seconds or more to decant. It is just exacerbated by the fact the capacity is much higher than listed. That is fine for iced or cold brewing gyokuro, but in any other circumstance it makes it hard to control the brewing parameters of the teas correctly.
JAS qualified, organically cultivated matcha for making thin tea (usucha)
An******, 2022-01-18 06:59 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Wow! The matcha alone is sweet, pleasant taste! not bitter at all. I am very happy, organic and sweet. Glad that Sazen has organic matcha. Ship by FedEx is very fast . Much faster than I expected. I will order and use FedeX again.
Ad******, 2022-01-18 00:48 JST, SINGAPORE
Solid, good quality chasen, used it for a couple of months now nearly everyday and it helps you get a nice, frothy whisk for usucha and works well for koicha. Just make sure you wet the chasen before use, get a whisk stand (kusenaoshi) and clean it after use before drying out.
Ta******, 2022-01-16 18:38 JST, HUNGARY
I dont know exactly what to write. The flavour is complex, the texture is thick, smells sweet grassy. It has strong vegetal aroma, astrigent and bitter. I tried it with higher and lower temperature too. With 60°C water was not so bitter.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Ad******, 2022-01-16 16:14 JST, SINGAPORE
I have bought this twice, this is good matcha for the price. Works well as usucha or koicha, versatile. Mild initial taste with good body, smooth. For someone who wants to make a good matcha latte everyday without worrying about the cost, this is an economical solution without sacrificing quality.
JAS qualified, organically cultivated matcha for making thin tea (usucha)
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Matcha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Ky******, 2022-01-12 04:15 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This was the favored matcha of my soulmate, the one that got away. When I imbibe in it's splendor and glory, I am transported to a place beyond time. A truly sublime experience. Ethereal, ephemeral, its flavors are reminiscent of sweet rice, a manna of the plant world. Closing my eyes, I see fields of green tea, dew twinkling on their leaves.. And then after a life age passes in a moment, I'm back in the kitchen. Liking holding onto a dream, or gripping a handful of sand, the harder you hold onto the ephemeral eternal bliss, the quicker it slips away. To enjoy it best is to quiet it's mind and let it be. It is its own thing, and it will show you something special if you let it be. As the flavor fades, it's like a sublime memory of the one that got away. The best you'll ever have.. Maybe i'll have another cup.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
An******, 2022-01-06 10:05 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Pretty solid overall. Due to import/shipping, I personally prefer paying the difference for Wako for a more refined flavor, but this is hard to beat at the price point and still stands well in its own right. For my fellow yanks, despite being marketed as “entry-grade”, this is 10x better than anything being shilled as “premium” or “ceremonial” that you can find here. Definitely worth picking up as a daily matcha.
Da******, 2022-01-05 21:02 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Smooth yet refreshing taste with no bitterness. Looks like gyokuro but has a lighter taste. When opening the bag there was a very fresh scent I didn't expect this late in the year (this has been true for every tea I've purchased from this site). It's hard to believe they can sell this quality for such a low price.
Tea stems blended with rich tasting green tea from Shiga prefecture
Da******, 2022-01-05 08:16 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Rich and flavorful with a bit of a bite, presumably from the stems, results in 2 contrasting qualities, making this a very interesting tea You get a lot of quality at a very reasonable price. By far the best karigane I've tried. I haven't tried many because I never had one I would buy a second time but I would definitely buy this one again. Thanks Sazen!
Da******, 2022-01-02 10:04 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A massive amount of tea for a very low price. Since other reviewers noted a mild taste I started out with much more leaf and higher temperature than recommended. Still not overpowering but brought out the roasted taste quite well. I really don't think it can be over-brewed so I suggest experimenting.
Da******, 2022-01-02 09:12 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Tastes like genmaicha to start, more infusions bring out the taste of the black bean. Brewed about 5 times and really liked this more than I expected to. Great taste at an absurdly low price makes this a great value!
Single origin green tea from the former Ohmi Province, Japan
Co******, 2022-01-01 02:42 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Smooth and mellow, decently sweet with a subtle umami flavor. The umami is mostly present in the first steeping and the flavor drops off by the second-third steeping but I tend to steep mine for a little longer.
Tea stems blended with rich tasting green tea from Shiga prefecture
Da******, 2021-12-28 00:10 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I strongly recommend reading the full product description before brewing as this tea can give a very wide range of looks and taste and is very adjustable to personal preference. I did the first 4 infusions by brewing the whole unbroken orange which resulted in an orange colored tea with light taste. After that I broke the orange in half and this resulted in a very dark tea more typical of aged puerh with a richer, deeper taste. Great either way, this is the first puerh tea I tried that I actually liked and would buy again.
Re******, 2021-12-27 23:19 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Foams with no difficulties. Was described to me as "nutty" when I made some for a family member. I would say it's a bit more intense/punchy in flavor for something I would have every day, but I also have a preference for more mellow and gentle flavors. This does have a very pleasant and definitely more nutty aftertaste.
Powdered green tea favoured by Kobori Sojitsu, the 13th generation grand tea master of Enshuryu
Re******, 2021-12-23 23:22 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Was a bit harder to get a foam out of, but cooperated with some persistence. My dad, with whom I drink matcha almost every morning, says that this one is a little more sour. I didn't find that to be a bad thing, however, as the aftertaste is quite mellow and really lingers.
Am******, 2021-12-23 02:40 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
My new favorite kyusu! Shipping amazingly only took two days from Japan to the US. I'd say the pour quality seems pretty good to me, but another reviewer said it wasn't great so maybe it's luck of the draw? So beautiful, and I can't wait to make tea in it!
Jo******, 2021-12-22 03:00 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Obukucha Kin gracefully captures the wonderful duality of Uji’s sweet and umami filled ceremonial matcha. Upon drinking my very first chawan, I was immediately greeted with velvety sweetness, which was then followed by deep savory notes of umami that reminded me of toasted nori. Marukyu Koyamaen, you are the gift that keeps on giving.
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Matcha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Jo******, 2021-12-18 11:39 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Before I bought Tenju, I already had some very high expectations based on a combination of the price and the reviews. While this matcha is very much an excellent one, I ultimately would say that it is too similar to the Choan matcha (when prepared as a koicha). That being said, it is a whole different story when prepared as an usucha. I can safely say that Tenju, as an usucha, is without a doubt one of the best ceremonial matcha that I have ever tasted. I was immediately struck by how the initial taste was very reminiscent of mildly sweet cream, followed by soft lingering notes of umami. All in all, Tenju is the crowning jewel of Marukyu-Koyamaen.
Da******, 2021-12-12 14:10 JST, THAILAND
This tea distinguishes itself form the crowd by it's smooth milky experience that is mixed well with other components from floral fragrances to fruity aftertaste. It also has very smooth structure, easy to drink and finishes like icy cool peach milky dessert.
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Matcha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Wi******, 2021-12-08 08:07 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Expensive with a astringent smell , for this price it's not worth it
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COMMENTS (2) ▼
Ph******, 2023-10-28 11:14 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
wholly agree, was so disappointed by Tenju
Ma******, 2023-10-31 23:55 JST, HONG KONG
Agree. The taste is not very good also. And, actually this mathca is not the award-winning tea. Other brand's highest grade matcha is better than this.
Ru******, 2021-12-06 12:51 JST, INDONESIA
A smooth and delicate black tea. Liquor is of a clear golden caramel in tone. There is no astringency nor bitterness, instead an earthy sweetness with a floral and fruity after taste. Wet leaves have an olive-copper hue and smell almost sugary. I think this could be a pleasant dark tea for all sorts of sweet and savory accompaniments.
Jo******, 2021-12-02 04:36 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
While my first and foremost preference when it comes to ceremonial matcha is its natural sweetness, I also genuinely appreciated Choan's unique dynamic flavor profile mixing unmistakable deep umami with subdued notes of sweetness. This matcha elegantly dances between the fine line of subtle savoriness and sweetness. This is definitely a sophisticated and unique ceremonial matcha.
Tu******, 2021-11-30 01:36 JST, AUSTRIA
5 stars as a cold brew . 3 stars as a hot tea. The flavors are really pleasant, fragrant , sweet as a cold brew. No bitterness. But as a hot tea it lacks the punch that matcha provides. I woudnt buy this if you want to use this as a hot tea.
Mo******, 2021-11-26 07:10 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is a wonderful and complex matcha for the price. The powder is very silky and a beautiful deep green. It has a beautiful fragrance and a deep umami. It foams very easily and abundantly. I like my matcha a bit on the stronger side with 70C water and it is one of my favorites as it exhibits no bitterness and a beautiful matcha experience. Kinrin rivals a lot of matcha at higher price points. An excellent value all-around
Entry grade usucha (thin matcha), also perfect for flavoring soft drinks
Jo******, 2021-11-26 03:21 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Your Challenge is Try the other culinary green tea and then try this last ..you'll find this to be a more luxurious experience, the smell is very fresh with hint of sweetness. Share with friends and family and they'll believe you're a Tea master for finding this wonderful gem. Don't be surprised if they start asking you for green tea advices and such.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Matcha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
The highest ranked, finest matcha tea of Hekisuien suitable for making koicha
Ru******, 2021-11-18 13:54 JST, INDONESIA
This is a bold black tea that comes with a strong taste. Liquor has a dark golden copper-like hue with an immediate sweetness and a touch of earthy bitterness. The aftertaste has a mild tartness and slightly floral. Wet leaves smell sweet of smoked sugar. This tea is strong enough to go with all sorts of sweet or savory accompaniment. I personally find the natural sweetness of this tea is more apparent when paired with a cheesy and salty rice cracker snack.
Japanese organic oolong tea with a floral fragrance and smoked aroma
Ru******, 2021-11-17 14:39 JST, INDONESIA
A medium roasted oolong with a sweet aroma and after taste. Liquor is clear and deep golden in color tone, slightly oily in mouthfeel. One gets to taste the toasty aroma that is balanced, not overwhelming. The toastiness in the brew is both nutty and fruity sweet. Wet leaves have both green and copper tones, giving off a sugary-nutty aroma. I think this could also work nicely if made into iced tea.
Ru******, 2021-11-16 12:57 JST, INDONESIA
An pleasant green tea that has a sweet aroma. Liquor is of a light and clear green-yellow tone with a nuttiness in aroma that is creamy. It mimics that of a Taiwanese green oolong in taste. Mouthfeel has a slight pleasant oiliness that makes one salivates. Wet leaves are vibrant fresh green with a milky nutty aroma.
Flavorful usucha (thin tea), excellence in everyday life, from Yamamasa Koyamaen
Tu******, 2021-11-16 01:43 JST, AUSTRIA
It's a very good smooth tea. The finish seems a bit sweet. I couldn't find any bitter notes or anything pleasant in this tea. A million times better than the garbage sold on amazon in America. The price for this tea is amazing. Don't hesitate to try. 5 stars for price to taste ratio
Powdered green tea favoured by Koshin Sokei, the 12th generation grand tea master of Enshuryu
Tu******, 2021-11-13 04:09 JST, AUSTRIA
This tea is phenomenal. It packs a punch. Very robust but not bitter. Full bodied. And the umami stays with you for a long time. The price is amazing as well. This is not your sweet mild tea, the flavor is extremely potent and stays on your palate noticeably as you drink it I only drink usucha. So about 70 ml and one teaspoon. The complexity that this tea has provided me, i don't think any other tea has for this price. If you love aoarashi , you will like this. God bless the person who created this tea.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Mo******, 2021-11-13 01:22 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is a very light matcha in scent and flavor. Even when I tried to make it stronger (more matcha less water) it was quite light. I prefer the Mumon and the Asahi cultivar. This one is nice but not the one for me. The one thing I really liked about it is that there was no bitterness at all...which is a big +
Br******, 2021-11-12 08:20 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I love this tea strainer, it's the perfect size, very well crafted and beautiful to look at and use. I have come back less than a week after receiving my own, to order 2 more for our grown daughters for the upcoming holidays.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Lu******, 2021-11-10 08:33 JST, CANADA
This tea is great for its price. It isn't as flavourful as Marukyu-Koyamaen's Wako matcha, but for nearly half the price it is pretty close. This is the best matcha I have found in this price range and will be using it daily. Thanks Sazen!
Extraordinary matcha with the name of ‘long life’ for making thick tea (koicha)
Jo******, 2021-11-09 05:39 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Eiju ceremonial matcha is genuinely one of the best ceremonial matcha that I have tasted so far. There are definitely subtle notes of roasted peanuts as well as an unmistakable sweetness that is reminiscent of sweet snap peas or sweet corn. There is virtually no bitterness at all and has a buttery smooth texture. This is a jewel of a matcha.
Ru******, 2021-11-08 14:04 JST, INDONESIA
A delicate oolong with a soft sweet aroma of citrus. I do brief steeps like I would with Chinese oolongs, to allow many steeps. The liquor is bright and clear on a yellow tone with no tartness or bitterness. The flavor is very light. Wet leaves are whole and freshly green with a more pronounced citrus aroma than the liquor. Overall a nice mellow oolong for those who look into a lighter tea, especially in a hot climate. I think this would make a nice iced tea.
Competed in sencha tea category at the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Ta******, 2021-11-06 08:54 JST, CANADA
i have given a review of this tea before, but now i have gotten to know it for a little while longer, and i have to mention the tea's energy! It is actually a big mood changer, more so than the other teas, even the other kabusecha. Im guessing that this tea must have a lot of L-theanine, because whenever i decide to enjoy some Unjo, regardless if im paying attention to flavour or not, this tea always makes me really happy after about 15 minutes for no apparent reason. Ive compared it to GABA and other teas and Unjo still stands out in this way for me :) everytime i drink a cup, its basically a cup of smiles.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Ri******, 2021-11-06 01:04 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The most cost effective choice of any matcha on sazen. Slightly astringent and bitter, but quite enjoyable for an everyday matcha. Works well as cold brew too. I always buy the 100g bags to have on hand when I need a refill. Better taste/price ratio than anything comparable. More palatable than Aorashi. Can buy 3 times the quantity with international shipping of any comparable everyday matcha. You won't be disappointed.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Ri******, 2021-11-06 01:04 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The most cost effective choice of any matcha on sazen. Slightly astringent and bitter, but quite enjoyable for an everyday matcha. Works well as cold brew too. I always buy the 100g bags to have on hand when I need a refill. Better taste/price ratio than anything comparable. More palatable than Aorashi. Can buy 3 times the quantity with international shipping of any comparable everyday matcha. You won't be disappointed.
JAS qualified, organically cultivated matcha for making thin tea (usucha)
Ro******, 2021-11-01 02:51 JST, GERMANY
Good quality culinary grade Hojicha powder. It’s low in caffeine so is perfectly acceptable for caffeine intolerant individuals and for late night sipping. It’s the Halloween time now and I brewed Hojicha latte, looks like coffee but it’s a roasted green tea!
6 × 30 g different tea cultivars from Shiga Prefecture
St******, 2021-11-01 02:26 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
It is harder to find single-origin Japanese teas than with Chinese ones so this set is fantastic for that purpose. It also gives a great insight into the subtle variations in tea and the important role of the tea blender.
St******, 2021-11-01 02:24 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Definitely better than the Genmaicha that might be available at an American grocery store. The tea is clearly of a higher quality and the tea has the heartiness and viscosity characteristic of Genmaicha. Nice to drink alongside breakfast or another meal without having to think too much about it, if that makes sense.
Powdered green tea favoured by Koshin Sokei, the 12th generation grand tea master of Enshuryu
St******, 2021-11-01 02:14 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Not only is this Chasen beautiful it also does a very good job of whisking, much better than the cheap Chinese ones more readily available. It is a full-size chasen so make sure your bowl is big enough to comfortably use it.
St******, 2021-11-01 02:12 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This scoop has a lovely finish and it is useful to have when making matcha. Trying to approximate with spoons and scoops you have around the house doesn't give the same experience as using an actual chashaku.
St******, 2021-11-01 02:12 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This scoop has a lovely finish and it is useful to have when making matcha. Trying to approximate with spoons and scoops you have around the house doesn't give the same experience as using an actual chashaku.
Japanese organic oolong tea with a floral fragrance and smoked aroma
St******, 2021-11-01 02:05 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This tea has whole, unbroken leaves, quite unusual for Japanese tea. It is more in the Chinese style. The yuzu flavor is nice but I feel it is missing the same tea flavor present in the other Japanese oolong offered by Sazen. Given the prices of the two products, I would recommend the other one over yuzucha.
Mu******, 2021-10-30 04:44 JST, AUSTRIA
This is my first kyusu and its beautiful! It holds enough for one cup and is perfect for one person (or two if you want make gyokuro for with small cups). The pouring quality is okayish although there are other pots with smoother pouring but I think it's acceptable for the price.
An******, 2021-10-26 17:31 JST, ITALY
This tea it's such a surprise! Its citrusy yet round and sweetish aroma makes it a perfect tea for autumn afternoons. It's really hard to find nice and particular Japanese Oolong teas, and this one is so pleasant and refreshing. The natural scent of yuzu citrus pairs greatly with the smoothness of Oolong. I love it! It definitely deserves a try!
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Gyokuro competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Jo******, 2021-10-16 10:08 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
My initial thought when first opening this matcha was that it has a very similar smell to the Eiju matcha: creamy, earthy and mellow. I have tried this seasonal Autumn matcha in its three forms. As usucha: it has a very dynamic flavor of some moderate astringency combined with some sweetness. As koicha: it has a rather potent savoriness to it with deep umami flavor. As a matcha latte: its natural milky, creamy, pumpkin essence really shines and is honestly my most favorite way to drink this specific type of matcha.
Powdered green tea favoured by Koshin Sokei, the 12th generation grand tea master of Enshuryu
Ch******, 2021-10-09 08:47 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This matcha was very hard to whisk enough for a good froth, to the point where it was cold and my arm was a little sore when I finally finished whisking it, BUT the taste was absolutely incredible! I instantly tasted a very strong cream flavor, almost like matcha ice cream with absolutely no bitterness. The taste is probably the best out of all 9 matchas I ordered from Sazen despite it's frothing problems and low price.
Ro******, 2021-10-06 06:44 JST, GERMANY
My first Chashaku. I like the story behind it and the overall antique look and feel. It does the job but it’s up to each and everyone to decide if the premium price worth it. If you have spare money just buy it. It’s a piece of several hundred years old Japanese traditional house and using it to scoop Matcha is pretty cool. It’s a rarity, cool accessory with a history, but definitely not a necessity.
Ro******, 2021-10-06 06:33 JST, GERMANY
Fits my Japanese Chasen like a glove! Keep in mind that it’s not suitable for Chinese knockoff chasens you find in EU stores. Buy a proper Chasen from Sazen and you won’t regret, believe me (or simply look at this photo and you will see what I mean).
Bamboo tea whisk made of black bamboo from Nara • approx. 64-tine chasen
Ro******, 2021-10-06 06:27 JST, GERMANY
Attached another photo of this beautiful Chasen on a whisk stand + compared it to the Chinese knockoff that usually the only whisk you will ever see in EU tea stores. Compare the size, the look, and functionally and you will understand why it costs x3 times of the Chinese knockoff. It gives a totally different experience when using it! Also, if you ever buy the stand keep in mind that it fits this Chasen perfectly! The one on the photo is the standard size.
Ro******, 2021-10-06 06:10 JST, GERMANY
Fresh spring grassy taste, smooth, soft, slightly astringent if brewed with a cooler temperature (70-75 Celsius). I recommend 80 degrees water and drink it as soon as you finished whisking to prevent bitterness. Pleasant easy going matcha for every occasion.
Bamboo tea whisk made of black bamboo from Nara • approx. 64-tine chasen
Ro******, 2021-10-06 05:57 JST, GERMANY
My first Japanese Chasen. I chose this one because 64 strings version is suitable for both Matcha styles. Whisking is easy, surprisingly pleasant (compared to the Chinese knockoff), strings are soft so be careful not to touch the surface while using. I like the overall design of this dark old bamboo and it’s unique antique patina.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Ma******, 2021-10-06 02:13 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Wow, I had tried Matcha Aorashi, Isuzu, and Wako all prior to this one, which are all good by the way, but this one just blew me away with the smoothness. It has a pleasant, slightly creamy and sweet flavor. It’s certainly more expensive, but in this case you get what you pay for. I will never order matcha anywhere else.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Asahi tea cultivar
Mo******, 2021-09-28 04:22 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I've tried a LOT of matcha and this is a nice matcha. I drink it as Usucha primarily. I like my matcha strong so I add about three scoops to 50-60 ml of 70 C water. It foams up really well. The powder is very light and airy and a very nice deep green. The aroma of the dry powder is rather light. The finished usucha is medium bodied with just a slight bitterness that I find pleasant. It's quite smooth and mellow at the same time. I like it but it's not my all time favorite. Very well made matcha overall. In case you're curious, the matcha bowl was purchased at Sazen: Hira Chawan Oribe Matsumoto Tetsuzan and it is a pleasure to drink from.
Extraordinary matcha with the name of ‘long life’ for making thick tea (koicha)
Da******, 2021-09-28 01:19 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Very well made with perfect fit and finish at a very reasonable price. Perfect for Chinese green tea. With the glazed interior I think Chinese tea tastes better than it does when brewed in unglazed Chinese and Taiwanese clay pots. That's why I chose this one and it does not disappoint. No leaks or drips either.
アニ******, 2021-09-25 22:56 JST, JAPAN
This is a wonderfully complex tea, a lovely combination of honey, orchids and a faint, very faint hint of cinnamon. You can get a lot of infusions with this one, and the more you flush it, the sweeter it becomes. And you know what? Let the tea cool down a little, that's when it will truly surprise you.
Di******, 2021-09-23 22:03 JST, PORTUGAL
Good, balanced tea. It surprised me how sweet this tea actually is. The oolong greenish flavours are still present but the sweet and toasted aromas attenuate them a bit. Overall balanced but could be slightly more aromatic/complex. My brew was paler but this could have been caused by a narrow teapot (less extraction). First tried it with a couple of friends and it was well received. If you prefer your teas on the "stronger" side, try brewing it longer. I could get it from smooth to slightly astringent.
Ar******, 2021-09-17 05:58 JST, UKRAINE
As a beginner matcha appreciator, I found this bowl a rather exquisite piece of art. The sides of the bowl have a rough, almost sandpaper-like texture that ensures a good grip, while the round green shape seen on the pictures on the country is very smooth. Overall it's very pleasant to hold in hand and drink from. Interestingly enough, I found that with my particular bowl as I pour in the water it will touch the edge of that round green shape exactly when I've poured in 80ml, which makes it perfect for making usucha. I'm not sure if all bowls are like this, but it saves me a lot of time. For its price, I'm confident there's hardly a better bowl out there.
Ta******, 2021-09-11 00:35 JST, CANADA
All i can say is that I am amazed by the craftsmanship. This kyusu is essentially a larger version of the other small kyusu by koushi umehara that i currently own, and just as ive previously stated in the review of the smaller one, this kyusu is a sight to behold and when it comes to brewing a good sencha, this pot is nothing short of perfection. You can even stop the flow by resting your finger on the lid vent, this kyusu has impressed my guests already :) thank you sazen for offering such quality wares.
Sz******, 2021-09-03 21:06 JST, ROMANIA
Really lovely teapot, it pours precisely, it is very light and thin walled, good filter, unique design with the tenmoku glaze, it has a water repelling property on the surface, my only complaint is that it is not 350 ml to the rim but 270 ml (most of the modern kyusu are this size so no big deal).
Japanese organic oolong tea with a floral fragrance and smoked aroma
An******, 2021-09-01 22:45 JST, ITALY
This tea is such a surprise! It's very hard to find a Japanese oolong and even harder to have the chance to try an organic one (organic tea farming in Japan is really a challenge!). I appreciate the hardwork the farmer did to create a tea so special, so different from anything else. The leaves are beautifully curled, with spiky and reddish edges. This oolong is sweet, velvety and round, with notes of dryed peach and roasted chestnut. Perfect to drink in autumn.
An******, 2021-09-01 22:29 JST, ITALY
A true surprise! I've never thought I could try a Japanese tea so different from normal green tea and so pleasant! Rosecha is delicate and aromatic at the same time, with a flowery scent and a limpid rose liquor. I also appreciate the ability and the hardwork of the farmers that produced this specialty. I recommend to enjoy it hot on winter days, to warm up body and soul!
An******, 2021-09-01 22:19 JST, ITALY
I study Japanese tea ceremony and I recommend this chasen to all the matcha lovers! The strings are thin and soft but surprisingly resistant. It's easy to handle and clean and, most of all, I could make an extraordinary frothy foam! The dark color of bamboo makes it really elegant as well.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Ri******, 2021-08-11 00:50 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Now that I've tried nearly every koicha matcha on Sazen, I have to say that this matcha blew me away. Usually I stick with Marukyu Koyamaen Matcha or Horii Shichimeien, but was interested to see how their high quality matcha stands to the two other brands. While matchas at this price range tend to lack that bitterness of lower quality ones, this possessed a long lasting sweetness coupled with umami that you really only find if you spend a bit more. This matcha has the best characteristics next to the Shichimei no Mukashi (for me) but at a price point that's pretty much unrivaled. It's a huge step up from the Ukitsu from Hekisuien and absolutely worth it.
Powdered green tea favoured by Hounsai, the 15th generation grand tea master of Urasenke
Am******, 2021-08-08 21:45 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I just had three bowls of this in a row, trying to figure out how to describe this tea, but it's a pretty tough nut to crack. The shop description is spot on. I tried rather hard to hunt for a word that wasn't "acrid", but that is indeed the best characterization for the type of bitterness in here. It hits right at the beginning, and you can almost feel it coating your mouth. After the bitterness comes a bit of sweetness, but it doesn't quite go in the sweet potato or toasty direction you might expect on a more robust usucha, instead, it hangs out a bit near melon, with greener flavors. Never obnoxiously grassy, but never quite friendly either. The finish is long. It's been 15 minutes and I can still taste most of the above. Aroma is not very strong, but fresh and pleasant. This is less of an everyday tea, and more of a statement. Recommended: - Drink it after some of the heavier or fruitier desserts. - Serve guests who are experienced drinkers of matcha. Not recommended: - Making it weak or with water that's hotter than 90C(195F), it retains the upfront bitterness but loses the other interesting aspects. - Serving large numbers of people or beginners.
Sa******, 2021-08-03 05:32 JST,
A pesar de que Kinrin es un te de entrada en el mundo del koicha, no defrauda en ningún momento. Lo tomo como usucha y tiene una relación calidad / precio insuperable. Kinrin es mi favorito. Nunca resulta amargo y siempre recuerda notas verdes y frescas muy aromáticas.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Na******, 2024-09-20 01:03 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Gracias amig@ por tu reseña en español son de gran ayuda. Alguna otra marca que puedas recomedar.
Japanese green tea blended with roasted rice & green tea powder
qu******, 2021-08-02 14:33 JST, SINGAPORE
2/8/2021` This iri genmaicha, with the same amount used 3 table spoon, i can only brew twice, whereas your competitor can brew three times and still have the taste, this ire genmaicha is not as strong as your competitor, when i first time brew and drink, i love that is why i bought your tea n try Your competitor genaicha ire is bitter with green tea smell at a right temperture drinker will fall in love, Sazen tea is not as bitter as their is your price is higher
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Ph******, 2021-07-26 08:20 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The color is a beautiful teal green with a well rounded and sweet flavour. I suggest this to friends as the perfect introduction to high grade matcha being that its price point is very reasonable, its flavor is delicious, and its corresponding energy is clear and focused (rather than jittery or tense) A must try.
Je******, 2021-07-23 02:11 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Great packaging to preserve this gem! Unscrew the top and then has a pop top to open. Then you cut the foil sealed bag. WOW!!! An explosion of aroma that must be experienced!!! This is the real deal!!! I think my whole day has been transformed after a cup of this! Don't even ask yourself if you should get this... buy it now! You won't regret!!!
Handmade and hand-painted matcha tea bowl from Takano Shōami, Shōami kiln
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Hu******, 2021-07-20 22:39 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
My first time trying authentic matcha directly from Japan, and it was so worth it! It tasted better than any matcha product I've tried before in the states or from Amazon. Even my husband who does not like the flavor of matcha was converted once we tried the high quality stuff we missed out on. The color looks so vibrant and vegetal. The texture was smooth and I could even taste the slight savory flavor some would call "umami" that gave it a pleasant 'kick'. It's saying a lot for a product that's considered entry-grade! I highly recommend this for people who want a true matcha experience from Japan if they really like matcha!
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Filter in bottle - the easy way to make cold brewed tea
Je******, 2021-06-30 06:01 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
My first Gokujo Shincha tea and it was heavenlyl!!! Description is "supreme green tea" and that is an understatement. This is THE shincha tea you needed but didn't know you needed it! Words cannot describe how wonderful this tea is!!! Thank you for the hard work that is involved in making this wonderful tea to only be appreciated by so few but we thank you over and over again!!! I purchased last week and it is now out of stock. I am very grateful I am one of the people to be able to enjoy it!!!
Je******, 2021-06-30 05:54 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
"Large" teapot is perfect for brewing two cups of tea. Beautiful to look at and performs exactly as you would want it to. Built in filer works great but please note it will let some very small particles through, not that it matters though. Highly recommended as long as you realize this will be for 2 cups of tea at a time. I then steeped another two cups using the same leaves and it was also excellent!
Lu******, 2021-06-27 04:28 JST, CZECH REPUBLIC
This is a perfect kyusu if you are looking for something more crude and close to the nature. I purchased it along with yuzamashi and teacups matching the entire set. The product looks even better in real life than on the pictures. I definitely recommend this teapot!
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
BL******, 2021-06-12 15:59 JST, MALAYSIA
Appearance, nose, palate. and preparation. All rates well for me. It is easy to whisk, frothy and thick. Green and vibrant. At the right temperature, its sweetness will rise. Very aromatic and sweet with a high pitch of umami at the end. It fits is name perfectly right. On the palate, it is creamy and heavy. Bold to the mouth feel. Sweeter and more complex than the Samidori (not from Sazen) that I tried before. It has a pleasant after taste that lingers but it can be astringent. I would recommend to get the temperature of the water right to enjoy this beverage that is an amalgamation for fragrances from four directions (as the name denotes. Sorry if I got the name wrong).
Da******, 2021-06-06 12:20 JST, THAILAND
Very good construction and sublime, non-distracting decoration. The glaze is robust and easy to take care of. Let's talk about some caveats. Since it has small size and remarkably tapered bottom, there will be less room to whisk usucha and if you whisk it hard the tea would spill easily. For ergonomics please go for deep cylindrical bowl like Raku chawan. The glaze also has a downside as it tends to stickily hold matcha powder, when pouring water to brew the stream is hard to lift the tea powder thus harder to mix well.
Da******, 2021-06-05 12:20 JST, THAILAND
The wet leaf smells much like dry-preserved orange peel. The first brew reveals sweet floral aroma which is enduring and continues to extend to the throat, accompanied with a touch of tingling bitter citrus notes this tea is well balanced. The subsequent brews showed shifting of character from floral to dense creamy aftertaste, the shifting itself is fluid and gradual making the session more on an exciting side of journey. Cha qi (tea force) is uplifting and stimulating, increase my awareness and appreciate things around.
BL******, 2021-06-04 04:19 JST, MALAYSIA
Its superior. It scores 5 for creaminess and mouth full. It has a very sweet nose and fast to froth. Like the description, it has some mild tartness to the palate and a slightly floral after taste. This I tried with 70ml and 120 ml of water. If compared to the Deluxe Chiyo no Sakae Matcha, this beauty is more subtle and refine with cleaner edges. It will do better for me if it had more depth to it. Overall, it is an excellent choice for people to indulge in the world of Matcha.
BL******, 2021-06-02 03:16 JST, MALAYSIA
It's okay. its like burning a stick of Johnson and Johnson baby powder. It started with waves of sweet vanilla and transitioned into sweet floral or perhaps sweet plums. It ended with dull Balinese Teak. It can be relaxing with the right amount of ventilation. It did not leave behind traces of burnt scent like those Chinese or Tibetan incenses do. It made my space smelling like baby powder.
Entry grade usucha (thin matcha), also perfect for flavoring soft drinks
BL******, 2021-06-02 00:57 JST, MALAYSIA
Excellent ! Way beyond my expectations for a culinary grade Matcha. I'm having this straight as usucha. This particular beauty will put many others to shame. Superb on its color, scent, foam and texture as of a culinary grade Matcha. You will get some umami sweetness, with a good creamy mouth feel. It has a nice after taste of nutty creaminess with light hints of floral notes. You can definitely take the seller's word for it. Most culinary Matcha will never meet this level of excellence.!!
Ro******, 2021-06-02 00:41 JST, GERMANY
Very bright vegetal taste and the first infusion is full of umami (tastes like Gyokuro, almost). I usually brew the first infusion with 80ºC and the next 3-4 infusions with 75ºC. First 2 infusions 40 seconds and then increase by +20 seconds starting from the 3rd.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Ji******, 2021-05-22 06:23 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I love matcha, I drink it alone or in a latte. The products available in the USA are normally very low quality or very expensive for a tiny amount. With the amount of matcha I go through, I needed a different product. This is such a lovely product and I have just placed my third order. It is cheaper for me to import this great tasting, quality matcha, than to purchase a bitter tasting, less quality matcha. I highly recommend this product and this company. Sazen has great prices, great products and AMAZING shipping. Somehow my orders show up at my house in days, I order late on Tuesday and it has arrived by Friday afternoon. No need to monitor my can volume because I know I can order last minute and receive this wonderful product in no time. Items are carefully packaged, arrive undamaged and a small free gift is included.
Special tea whisk with extra long handle and small bloom for tea mugs • approx. 42-tine chasen
Da******, 2021-05-20 01:45 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
These are beautiful small handmade tea cups and they are all unique. Sazen was happy to take the time to send photos of their stock and allow me to pick the ones I liked the most. They are the right size to drink tea after pouring without it being too hot. And the traditional craftsmanship makes them something to treasure and take special care of. It's worthwhile to sometimes treat yourself to a high quality item that you know you'll make good use of.
Mo******, 2021-05-19 03:25 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
When I saw this Li Shan I knew I wouldn't be disappointed. This is utterly delicious and worth the $23 for 30 grams. I just wish I had bought more. The tea looks just like the pictures here on the website. My liquor is not as dark but I'm "IN LOVE" with this oolong. I used 3g of tea in my 90 g gaiwan (3 oz), 95 centigrade water, and did the asian style (or Gong Gu) about 10 times. I could have gone more as there was still so much flavor. The leaves are big and leafy and have a wonderful brothy aroma. This is a very fine quality tea.
Mo******, 2021-05-19 03:25 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
When I saw this Li Shan I knew I wouldn't be disappointed. This is utterly delicious and worth the $23 for 30 grams. I just wish I had bought more. The tea looks just like the pictures here on the website. My liquor is not as dark but I'm "IN LOVE" with this oolong. I used 3g of tea in my 90 g gaiwan (3 oz), 95 centigrade water, and did the asian style (or Gong Gu) about 10 times. I could have gone more as there was still so much flavor. The leaves are big and leafy and have a wonderful brothy aroma. This is a very fine quality tea.
Mo******, 2021-05-19 01:21 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Sazen Tea has described Matcha Shoukaku perfectly. If it’s possible to say a matcha is ‘perfect’ this is IT. It is great as koicha, thick and sweet and very strong and powerful but not in any way bitter or astringent. This matcha is very versatile in that it makes an amazingly delicious Usucha as well. As Usucha it is still very strong and powerful with a beautiful sweet umami and a very thick foam that is easy to froth. Both preparations reward you with a beautiful aroma as well. Shoukaku is a joy to drink and very ‘intoxicating’ in every sense. This is definitely a gem and a value for the money. I’ve tried other brands that were three times more expensive and it wasn’t as good as this. The only thing I don’t like is the plastic bag it comes in, but this is just a petty complaint, since the 20g container is only good for about 12 portions of Usucha (that’s how I make it most often), it’s gone way before it can go bad. Just like it is described: “It’s a great choice for those looking for something special in a koicha (and as Usucha as well), exceeding the ordinary. It’s a true culinary delight, which is sure not to disapoint’. This is matcha at its best! EXTRAORDINARY!!
Ta******, 2021-05-18 19:46 JST, HUNGARY
It was a "wow" experience to me. Its fresh and dark green, not as vivid. Smells like sweet and dry wheatspike. The taste was a surprise to me. Its like heavy roasted pumpkin seed with some dry hay and hint of "roasted-umami" taste(a bit like hojicha, but just really-really bit). Both aromas are dominant in taste and in the smell, if you are using more tea, it will be a bit bitter. Its good but i miss the balance in the taste. Fine sieving is recommended because it can be really clumsy. If i like to compare to Koyamaens Aoarashi, the prise its the same the taste and smell is completely other world. The Aoarashi is fresh, sweet and grassy with light body, the Matsukaze is in smell sweet and the taste is really nutty with stronger body. Absolutely recommended for this prise!
Da******, 2021-05-18 06:35 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Excellent. As another reviewer noticed, there is a taste of potato, like raw potato slices. The aroma reminds me of a more delicate English breakfast tea, with sweetness in the finish. A little touch of chocolate or cinnamon. Soothing and enjoyable.
Sa******, 2021-05-14 19:08 JST,
I am so disappointed!!!! I paid 100 euros for a very tiny kyusu (1 cm high, 5 cm diameter), since DHL charged me 36 euros for customs rights. Sazen had informed that the color might differ from picture, and of course it's the case instead of a nice pink-salmon color, it's basic grey croncrete color, awful and sad. That thing does not give enough tea for 1 single sip. I have never been so disappointed by a product in my whole life.
Ta******, 2021-05-12 17:11 JST, CANADA
Beautiful natsume, the craftsmanship is amazing, and it has me gazing at it, enjoying the beautiful shimmer of the bark. The lid fits so perfectly and there seems to be no errors as it satisfyingly slides on. For those who do not know, this is a tool that is used in tea ceremony. The container is not supposed to be air tight, it's not for long term storage, and is only for holding the pre-sifted and pre-measured matcha powder when presenting the tea during the ceremony.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Da******, 2021-05-10 07:48 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Very good. For several weeks I made it as thin tea first thing in the morning, and even tried it as thick tea once (pictured). It really invigorates the mind in a different way than caffeine alone would. Brings a balance and calmness even in stressful times, and helps you think clearly.
Classical thin tea (usucha) with the name of Ise Shrine’s river called ‘fifty bells’
Da******, 2021-05-10 07:48 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Very good. For several weeks I made it as thin tea first thing in the morning, and even tried it as thick tea once (pictured). It really invigorates the mind in a different way than caffeine alone would. Brings a balance and calmness even in stressful times, and helps you think clearly.
Da******, 2021-05-10 00:45 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
It's a good sencha, but the flavor is a little flatter than the others, and the main taste reminds a bit of powdered milk. High quality, just a little less complicated. Good for those who don't like the strongest flavors.
Handmade and hand-painted teacup fom Takano Shōami
Mo******, 2021-05-09 02:17 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This cup is truly a masterpiece. There was so much work put into it. The details are incredible. If you visually split the cup into horizontal sections there is some type of artistry that went into it in that section: Birds, Diamonds, Flowers, Sceneries. The bottom half of the cup has a beautiful 'swirled' effect. Inside all around the rim is more art. It feels really good in the hand and has a really hefty weight to it. It is a delight to drink my tea out of this absolutely beautiful Yunomi. Well worth the price and more. Thank you Sazen for offering such high quality items for us to enjoy.
Mo******, 2021-05-09 02:05 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This flat bowl is even more beautiful in person. It is also a bit different than the picture as you can see in my photo at the one that I received, though, I am still very pleased with it. The bowl is a little narrow at the bottom which meant learning to whisk a frothy bowl of matcha a bit differently, but it didn't take me long. It makes a perfect and delicious bowl of matcha and I love looking at it. It is of very high quality and workmanship. I love the dark green and the natural/neutral colors. It's a beautiful bowl that will serve me well for all seasons.
Da******, 2021-05-08 03:45 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Of the 5 Sazen senchas I have tried so far, this is my favorite. I like it more than the higher priced Sencha Yūga, which is also very good. The flavor is complex but mellow, very relaxing. The scent is pleasant and more powerful than the other senchas. There's something really enchanting about it!
Da******, 2021-05-07 23:23 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
It's good in the short recommended brew time or even a three minute one. There is a flavor of roasted pumpkin seeds, but not overpowering. A small hint of saltiness. Kind of reminds you of a pile of autumn leaves. A little bit of chalkiness. Think about a rainy day where you can smell previously dry, fallen vegetation rising up in the water vapor. Practically, the price makes this something there's no reason not to try. Also practically, the caffeine content is low so you can drink it instead of water. This tea gives you a warmer feeling than green tea does. It seems the perfect choice for when it's cool outside. I did not expect to like it as much as I did. It even seems to satisfy hunger to a degree.
Da******, 2021-05-07 03:56 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This tea has a delicious, rich, deep taste and great color. It is very fine and can clog some strainers, so you may need to prepare it differently. One of the best price to quality ratios I have come across so far.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Co******, 2021-05-07 01:04 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
So good! I decided to treat myself to some more high-end matcha and I was not disappointed. Very nice as koicha, the flavor profile is vegetal and full-bodied with no bitterness or astringency. It has a pleasant grassy aftertaste that makes you want to sip slowly to savor the flavor. Mellow yet energetic! I couldn't recommend this matcha more.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Ro******, 2021-04-29 20:59 JST, HUNGARY
this Matcha is very good for at such a low price it costs as much as some culinary matcha but its very nice, bit too vegetal taste for me but will get this one again in the future but my favourite still remains Kinrin from Koyamaen.
La******, 2021-04-29 00:27 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is such a versatile green tea. My favorite way to drink it now is to first steep the leaves as directed and enjoy as hot tea. Then for additional steeps, use cold water for a pleasant and refreshing brew.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Da******, 2021-04-28 11:18 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This was my first experience with ceremonial matcha, after a disappointing experience years ago with cheap, low-grade culinary matcha. What a difference buying this from a quality brand in Japan makes! Knowing that this is only an entry-level in this grade, and yet is still so good, makes me very excited to try the others. I was thinking that this would be an expensive drink but I find these small cans last quite a long time. You can buy several to make shipping economical and store the excess in the freezer. I will definitely buy matcha from Sazen again.
Ta******, 2021-04-24 16:23 JST, HUNGARY
Its a light sencha for everyday drinking. Its good for this price. The first infuse has the normal sencha notes, but after it taste is really vegetal, grassy with a hint of sweetness at the end. ITs suitable for 2, max 3 infusion. The soup is pale-yellowish. It has many broken leafs and particles. I think in this price range the Ohmi Tokujo Kabuse Yanagicha was way better.
Ta******, 2021-04-24 16:17 JST, HUNGARY
I loved it. Its really tasty and pleasant. It has sweet, strong roasted-toasted aromas with a hint of green at the end. It can be infused at least 4 times. Really pleasant and goes pretty well to the meals. It calms the nerves and the upset stomach.
Ge******, 2021-04-24 04:20 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The wet leaves have a delicious aroma of toasted cereal and dried cranberries. The flavor of the tea is quite deep and rich. It's creamy and toasty with a hint of granola and some notes of melon. Really outstanding tea! I will definitely buy it again
Ge******, 2021-04-23 01:47 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The wet leaves have a sweet cooked citrus aroma. Tasting notes include bitter citrus rind and sweet milk. As infusions progress, the bitter citrus flavor becomes more tempered allowing the milky flavor to shine through. Mild and pleasant cha qi.
Mo******, 2021-04-22 05:03 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is a very well made bamboo Furo Hishaku. I use it to ladle hot water for my matcha from my tea kettle into my bowl. It transfers the water without cooling down the water. I measured how much water I needed first and poured it into the Hishaku so I would know how much I would need. I use it every day and LOVE IT! It dries really fast too.
Competed in sencha tea category at the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Ge******, 2021-04-22 03:20 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The dry leaf in a warmed kyusu has an aroma of creamy buttered mashed potatoes. The wet leaf aroma adds vegetal notes. When tasted the first sensation is a blast of warm umami followed by a fresh leafy flavor. Subsequent infusions bring out some mild marine qualities. A very luxurious tea
Ge******, 2021-04-21 14:34 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I love the way this kyusu looks and feels. It’s perfect for brewing Japanese green teas. The only negative I can think of is that the lid doesn’t seal perfectly, but as long as I pour slowly it does not drip.
Re******, 2021-04-18 23:42 JST, ESTONIA
Truly beautiful both in taste and the visual experience of brewing it. I used a gaiwan to make it and I like to play around with the temperature a bit to get different nuances. One particular thing I’ve discovered through this tea is that my state of mind (consciousness) really affects whether I find the taste notes in it or not. The gentler I am in my being (loving vs. stressed for example) the more I find in and like this tea. And being caffeine-free this has become one of my favourite night-time teas ;).
Re******, 2021-04-18 23:35 JST, ESTONIA
One of my new favourite teas at this moment which we really like to drink with my partner ! We find it really brings us into our heart and to the subtle parts of our perception. I really respect gentle teas, and this for me is exacly right - despite it’s fragile taste, it has enough room and interplay between simmings for a whole bouquet of gentle and interwoven notes of aroma and taste. This I will make sure, will always be on my shelf :)!
Filter in bottle - the easy way to make cold brewed tea
Flavorful usucha (thin tea), excellence in everyday life, from Yamamasa Koyamaen
Ro******, 2021-04-15 23:45 JST, HUNGARY
this matcha is very tasty, would recommend this to the beginners like me, nice toasted notes, sligthly bitter but overall superb taste
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Cl******, 2023-05-15 05:47 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I agree, I got this as a free sample, and nice toasted notes.
Da******, 2021-04-15 09:55 JST, THAILAND
Very interesting blend of deep savory notes and smooth tart mouthfeel with well-round finish. I prefer usucha with this tea but koicha is indeed great. The only concern is this character might not be distinctive enough for the one who seek extreme savory from matcha, it's great for honing sense of tastings in mindfulness manner though.
Mo******, 2021-04-12 04:07 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This are the most beautiful, perfectly shaped and colored rosebuds I have EVER seen. The tea is amazing. These can be used for a lot of other things as well (I used it to flavor Kombucha and it was so strongly rose flavored and then I ate the rosebuds). The reviews about the scent being powerful are true. I don't know how 'they' did it to keep the aroma and color intact. Usually rosebuds lose their scent and color very rapidly. These are all perfectly cut and shaped and colored. They are so beautiful to look at and even more delicious to taste. Highly recommended and worth the 'high' price. Quality rose is not cheap (you get what you pay for).
Bamboo matcha tea scoop covered with Japanese cherry bark
Ta******, 2021-04-12 02:23 JST, CANADA
very beautiful chashaku perfect for a spring ceremony since it is made of the sakura bark, it has a captivating shimmer to it the same way cherry tree branches do, and it makes you feel that you are holding the beauty of spring. However, the craftsmanship is a little rough, with small sharp edges along the sides of the tip of the chashaku, also there are small scratches on the inside of the scoop's tip. I understand that making a cherry bark covered bamboo tea scoop is quite difficult, and some room for error is okay because of this, and you cannot see the scrapes from far away. Although due to these scrapes, i would not reccomend using this scoop for serving tea to guests, as they may look at the scoop later during the utensil viewing, and notice such scrapes. It is still perfect for a personal spring ceremony though! :) and i still recommend this scoop to those who love the sakura tree.
Da******, 2021-04-11 12:25 JST, THAILAND
Nice fitting of both layers especially the outer lid which slides smoothly to ensure moderate, if not extreme, air-tightness. Outer paper has smooth touch and non-distracting beauty. Not super tight as the finely handcrafted ones but I see this as more economical.
Da******, 2021-04-10 11:52 JST, THAILAND
This tea reflects the true taste of Feng Huang Dan Cong, clean tastes without any off-centering in the beginning and steadily transform into expanding mouthfeels and blooming aftertastes. Aroma of the liquor is in floral and honey range with deep character and leaves the notes like strawberry milk in the empty cup. Qi is of the old tree character, deep and grounding, bringing me to the present to enjoy dazzling flavors in the back of my throat. This might not be appealing to newbies comparing to the more modern high floral style, if you are diving deep to Dan Cong this is your final answer.
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Matcha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Powdered green tea favoured by Koshin Sokei, the 12th generation grand tea master of Enshuryu
mi******, 2021-04-01 16:40 JST, ROMANIA
I asked Sazen about a different Matcha and was recommended to try the Enshuryu Line. This is another superb quality matcha from Marukyu, smooth, great foam and compared to the other Marukyu's i had, the flavour is indeed slightly different, a bit "stronger" (in a subtle way), with a taste of some roasted nuts, it's not bitter at all but the taste has a slightly different character that you can enjoy by itself without sweets, so it is tasty and delicious with no offending notes ! I feel relaxed and focused, a matcha that needs further inspection and i'm very happy to try it :-). Arigatou.
Mo******, 2021-03-30 04:13 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Beautiful and excellently priced Raku Yaki chawan made by Shoraku Sasaki III. I had Sazen do the initiation (which was reasonably priced). I asked for pictures of their inventory so I could pick the one I wanted and Agnes was a sweetheart emailing during the process. Great communication and excellent service as always. This bowl shows off the beautiful color of the tea and it is very light, but at the same time substantial. Holds heat very well. Makes the entire tea ceremony a beautiful experience. The midnight moon design is even more beautiful in person. It really does look like the reflection of the moon on a lake on a dark night. Although the design looks to be predominantly a wash of 'blue', within that 'blue' there are other hues to be seen: cream, mauve, silver, metallic tones. One of my favorite bowls in my small collection of chawans.
Mo******, 2021-03-17 02:04 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is a nice sized linen cloth. I got my first one free with the purchase of a chawan. I had been searching for a high quality linen cloth to add to my first one. They are extra thick and absorbent. The stitching is good and doesn't fray easily. When dry they feel rough but once you dampen it, it softens up and it's great for wiping your chawan dry after warming it, and after rinsing it off when you finish your matcha. I love it so much I got three more. You find them for the best price here at Sazen tea.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Ag******, 2022-05-30 12:55 JST, JAPAN
Yes, I think so, too - I looked for a good quality one for such a long time and just find here at the best price ♡
Mo******, 2021-03-16 23:21 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
These are great little teacups. They are just the right size (not too small), very light and well balanced. Slightly flared at the rim makes them feel really good when drinking. The design is a simple (but not boring) pine needle design with green accents on a white teacup. I really enjoy these a lot and the simple design does not detract from the beautiful color of the tea. Excellent value!
Au******, 2021-03-15 01:57 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I used this for quite awhile before I broke it. It was an amazing little pot. Pleasant texture and gorgeous spiral inside; perfect strainer. After some time the reddish brown began to show more and more under the black on the inside and around the lip. Would but it again if I didn't have other teapots to drop first.
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Sencha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Ri******, 2021-03-14 10:44 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
First brew is fairly creamy and overall this is a high quality sencha. However, I would prefer the sencha unjo over this for both price and because I felt that the unjo displayed more sencha characteristic which is what I look for in my sencha tea whereas this displayed more gyokuro character. Still a very high quality tea although I also feel that it starts to brew weak immediately after the second brew.
Qu******, 2021-03-14 02:05 JST, CANADA
Excellent tea. Dry leaves smell a little bit like blackcurrant. Great balance between sweetness and oiliness. Taste stays on mouth for quite a while. Not too much of the veggie taste, more something between floral and fruity. Excellent balance quality-price. Hope we will have this product every year.
La******, 2021-03-11 23:58 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I love this little teapot! Its beauty and craftsmanship enhances the tea drinking experience and I use it daily now. I thought it would be difficult to clean since there is no separate strainer, but you just fill it with water and pour the tea leaves out.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Ma******, 2021-03-11 14:02 JST, SINGAPORE
I am impressed. This matcha is selling way lower than what we get locally here but the taste is far superior. No bitterness, smooth, good quality. Slightly astringent. It may not be as unami sweet n fragrant as the premium ones but for the price i paid, this is very good. Definitely drinking this on its own. Not gg to ruin it with milk. If this is the quality of the entry level for this brand, i wonder how good will the rest taste.
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Matcha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Mi******, 2021-03-09 13:36 JST,
Finest Matcha ever, I mean ever! I been drinking high quality Matchas from other Japanese vendors for the past 2 years, I read about Marukyu-Koyamaen and placed an order right away, for Matcha Tenju. It blew my mind away, astonished by its fineness, delightfulness, it's the joy of perfection. Ill be ordering this and only this matcha forever! Thanks Marukyu-Koyamaen & Sazentea!
Competed in sencha tea category at the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Ri******, 2021-02-19 13:32 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I would order this tea again. It was a very high quality sencha with a sweet, slightly bitter, and strong melon and umami flavor. The tea leaves all looked spectacular and of high quality both before and after brewing. Marukyu tea continues to impress me with their quality products.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Ga******, 2021-02-07 00:34 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Superb matcha indeed. I totally get what another another reviewer was saying: this blows away any medium-high end Marukyu Koyamaen. I think I have found my daily default after months of searching, thank you Sazen!
Au******, 2021-01-30 06:04 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I bought this because it was inexpensive. I prefer light and nutty sencha and this one is fairly rich in umami and somewhat thick. To me this tea is a bit underwhelming for not being exceptional at what it does and for not being exactly what I like. I'm not sure I much care for the way in which is the bitterness presents itself either. Merely my thoughts. The tea is still quite good & high quality and I cannot fault it for being what it is. For me personally though it's not quite perfect.
Competed in sencha tea category at the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Ta******, 2021-01-22 03:58 JST, CANADA
Perfect size kyusu for solo drinking, I am also a woman with very small hands and the size of the pot while pouring feels nice and controlled, the pour is also fast, which keeps your tea from over brewing. This size of pot also allows me to sample different greens in one day if I choose, as the amount i drink prevents me from getting too "tea drunk" :)
No******, 2021-01-18 17:56 JST, CANADA
Really enjoyed this matcha. When dry it has the most delicious sweet fruity aroma. It reminded me of sweet potato or pumpkin. Perfect for the autumn season. As usucha it's smooth and milky but well balanced with a strong deep robust flavour. As koicha it has a pleasant but strong harshness rounded out with a bit of nuttiness. Not astringent at all. Will buy this again when it's in season.
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Sencha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Jo******, 2021-01-14 15:20 JST, SINGAPORE
I can attest to previous comments here, Sencha Teki Teki does have quite a different taste compared to previous senchas i've tasted. It tastes closer to a mid range gyokuro in my opinion but its lighter and with not as much caffeine.
Jo******, 2021-01-13 14:47 JST, SINGAPORE
I do love the nutty taste that comes with it, usually i find black teas to be pretty strong but this one was quite light and was well enjoyed by family. It has a similar smell as yunnan gold but a very different taste. I find this tea to be a lot more relaxing compared to yunnan gold but it does last less infusions from my own tests. Still it was more than enough to serve 3 persons!
Tea stems blended with rich tasting green tea from Shiga prefecture
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Asahi tea cultivar
Nh******, 2020-12-15 06:48 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Every year for three months, we monks and nuns along with the laity come together for our Vassa (=Rains) Retreat. Every year, I've made it a sort of tradition to order 100g of Marukyu Koyamaen's Wako matcha, and it's a delight for all during the 'colder' days in Southern California. At this price, this is hands-down the greatest everyday matcha I've ever known. I have sampled many companies and grades throughout the years, and MK's Wako goes well beyond overpriced hay-hued expired Amazon products while still hanging out at those very same price ranges. All in all, whether in lattes or in usucha, Wako is a winner. Sure, I'd never consider making koicha with it, but that's not what I had in mind when buying 100g of matcha at a price I can afford as a monk with a monthly 'salary' of $50 USD.
Nh******, 2020-12-15 05:15 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
What's not to like? Simple, adorable, and a real treat for myself and for others, especially if I'm offering matcha and other teas to co-practitioners in the monastery. The smoke coming out of the little cat's ears seems to delight and amuse everyone who sees it for the first time. I found myself quite impressed with the little ceramic piece for the incense itself: the design allows cone incense to burn completely, and the width of the stick incense section accepts wider incense well. This little cat and stick incense from Shoyeido's Horin line seem to have been made for each other.
Nh******, 2020-12-15 05:09 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Not my favorite. Although Shoyeido has been my go-to for incense, I didn't enjoy these so much as other incense they make. The scent itself is one thing (smells slightly like a casino to me in all honesty), but it was mostly the 'aggressiveness' of the smoke that was most off-putting. Maybe I just got an old batch or something; in any case, I probably won't buy it again (maybe if it's on sale and I need a decent outdoor incense... maybe...).
Nh******, 2020-12-15 04:58 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I was surprised by this offering from Shoyeido. Although the scent is similar to others in their lower-end products, one immediate difference I found in the "Avenue of the Villa" incense is that the scent is incredibly 'gentle' in that it's both full (one stick fills a room up well and lingers for a while) and easy on the nose. There's a subtlety to it that I just absolutely enjoy. I will definitely purchase it again since it's at a nice price-point for occasional/special use (matcha, solo meditation, prostrations, &c.).
Nh******, 2020-12-15 03:25 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Absolutely everything I was looking for: In my monastery, brothers often drink 普洱 pǔ'ěr tea, and I was looking for 1) a dedicated pǔ'ěr pot that could serve a small party (four to six, let's say), 2) an unglazed teapot especially so that it can become 'well-seasoned' over many years of use, 3) a round pot to allow pǔ'ěr cake pieces to expand, and 4) a fine filter. This pot is all that and more; I wasn't expecting it to arrive looking so much better than the photos (I received a darker one). One thing I'm learning, a year later still, is to be more mindful of the shape—I occasionally knock it over or place it carelessly and it rolls around a bit. But that's on me. :) 感谢 as always, Sazen Tea. _/|\_
Nh******, 2020-12-15 03:25 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Absolutely everything I was looking for: In my monastery, brothers often drink 普洱 pǔ'ěr tea, and I was looking for 1) a dedicated pǔ'ěr pot that could serve a small party (four to six, let's say), 2) an unglazed teapot especially so that it can become 'well-seasoned' over many years of use, 3) a round pot to allow pǔ'ěr cake pieces to expand, and 4) a fine filter. This pot is all that and more; I wasn't expecting it to arrive looking so much better than the photos (I received a darker one). One thing I'm learning, a year later still, is to be more mindful of the shape—I occasionally knock it over or place it carelessly and it rolls around a bit. But that's on me. :) 感谢 as always, Sazen Tea. _/|\_
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Sencha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Gi******, 2020-12-12 21:38 JST, ITALY
I had to get past my initial impression of strangeness, the taste is really different from an usual sencha, for me it's very similar if not indistinguishable to mid-higher end gyokuro. It has the same density and cloudiness too. Considering that it is a sencha, so you only use one third of the quantity required for gyokuro, it has great value. It is very surprising that it can have such a strong taste with such little quantity to brew. Personally I always brew sencha at 65-70 °C for 1m20s-1m30s first brew and then 20-30s the others, and i keep preferring this parameter, but it's good at the suggested parameter as well.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
ha******, 2020-12-12 04:45 JST, CANADA
SUPER round (if to use geometric shape to describe taste, this one is a full circle, you poke it at any angle and it bounces back smoothly). Its level of balance beats all the medium-high range Marukyu Koyamaen I tried so far (though serious competition Tenju is up next)
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Asahi tea cultivar
Gyokuro tea that competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Jo******, 2020-12-06 16:46 JST, SINGAPORE
This is the first Gyokuro i've tried from Marukyu, smells fragrant and has a beautiful rich green color to it. Taste wise i find it almost the same as the oku no yama gyokuro i bought before but i do find this one to be very slightly sweeter compared to oku no yama for horii. It lasted about 3 infusion (4 if counting the first long one at room temperature) which is an up from oku no yama. But it loses out to nyusho gyokuro in terms of the strength of fragrance and nyusho having a stronger umani during the first infusion. I find it fairly priced inbetween oku no yama and nyusho.
Ta******, 2020-12-04 06:58 JST, CANADA
This tea does not have the best taste, and its a bit bitter and earthy, but I chose to buy it after finding out about gaba tea and wanted to try it out. Although its taste is nothing special, the feeling this tea gives my body and mind during meditation will have me coming back to drink more anyway :) its a subtle carefree feeling that is really nice.
Ba******, 2020-12-01 21:48 JST, PHILIPPINES
Oriental Beauty from Sazen Tea. God, no words can describe how fragrant this tea is. The smell and taste notes are like cherry/plum. The hui gan, too, lingers in my mouth even after our session, though it has had an astringency in 4th to 5th infusions. I really love it.
mi******, 2020-11-27 16:54 JST, ROMANIA
WOW ! This tea has a wonderful floral aroma, no bitterness and the clear liquid makes you very focused and cheerful to the point of laughing. The taste persists long after drinking it, so it stays in your mind. It needs higher temperature to open up and it can be brewed more times, my favourite being number 2. I am suspecting this tea has a lot of L-theanine, probably from being a high altitude tea, you feel high as well :-), one of the best tea experiences i had.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Ps******, 2020-11-27 02:20 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Without question this is the best bang for the buck matcha being made. It out performs matcha from other companies that cost 2 or 3 times as much. It's been my daily go to for many years. I make mine with water that is not very hot and it comes out tasting like higher end matcha than it is. The price is fantastic compared to what it sells for in the U.S.
mi******, 2020-11-24 19:40 JST, ROMANIA
Superb looking leaves, intact with almost no specs, so the liquid is very clear. It has a spicy note to it, very similar to a more expensive gyokuro i had from another brand, if i would do a blind test, it would be hard to tell them apart. This is a super quality gyokuro and the provided tin is of impeccable beauty, perfection. The presentation, the whole opening experience, making and drinking this tea is pure class for affordable pice. No bitterness and nice theanine ;-).
Extraordinary matcha with the name of ‘long life’ for making thick tea (koicha)
mi******, 2020-11-24 19:21 JST, ROMANIA
Very smooth Matcha, with no bitterness at all. Once you open the can, the first shock is the amazing vibrant colour, it is radiating. I like to make it with hot water, the foam is abundant and easy to make. I would say this is a subtle matcha for more advanced users, quality stuff and beautiful looking tin.
Br******, 2020-11-19 22:16 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I am always consistently surprised by this Matcha Samidori from Yamamasa Koyamaen, especially for the price. When the water hits it, there's a nice fragrant aroma. As usucha, it's qualities are all soft. The good and bad are all soft... soft creaminess, slightly sweet, very muted bitter and muted umami. And all of that combined makes it a great staple to have around at all times. It's by no means top tier, but it's not offensive. It's great for those time when your friends want a matcha latte! I give it 5 stars because I think it's the best price you'll find for a reliable latte matcha.
Ha******, 2020-11-18 20:42 JST, MALAYSIA
Such a beautiful Kuroraku！my eye was attracted with the dark glaze for so long. No matter which angle, the feeling of holding this bowl was so nice and perfect, just like the name of this Chawan "Shunkan", means "the moment" in Buddhism too
Le******, 2020-11-15 01:41 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Update to my previous review- Sazen sent me instructions on how to remove the glue and they worked perfectly, so that problem solved. The quality also appears to be very good and the wood has held up well. The best part is how well it actually whisks. Less than half the effort required to get a good froth compared to my other whisk.
Nh******, 2020-11-13 12:49 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Amazing quality for the price. I am a Buddhist monk, and after saving up enough pocket money, I have bought this exact kyusu for my mentor and another one for a dear brother (so, i.e., I have purchased this kyusu thrice), and they have held up beautifully for many years of daily use. The size is perfect for personal, intimate contemplation and compact enough to take safely on many of the hikes we do in the Great Hidden Mountain. This and its red and black clay equivalents in small and large sizes from Sazen are a happy marriage between price, functionality, and simplicity.
Le******, 2020-11-10 03:56 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Not what I was expecting. The whisk is glued to the box, and the glue can’t easily be removed from the chasen. The body is also cracked half way up the base. The individual “fingers” are thinner on the ends and seem very brittle, with the inner set having fine hairs of fiber falling out right out of the box. The cheap chasen I ordered from the USA seems to be better made.
An******, 2020-11-08 06:52 JST, TAIWAN
Surprisingly light when prepared as thin tea. Not much of a flavor or aroma. When made slightly stronger, it leaves an unpleasant bitterness. I prefer Yuuwa no Shiro from Yamamasa Koyamaen, or any of the other Tsubokiri seasonal matchas.
Tea stems blended with rich tasting green tea from Shiga prefecture
ha******, 2020-10-31 10:31 JST, CANADA
Small size - perfect for one (or two). Nice texture. Very pleasant geometry. My ONLY complaint: tiny bits of rough spots on the edge, the clay body is not perfectly smooth as in high-end artisanal kyusu (but that would be the next price range, so this is rather an observation than a complaint)
Ta******, 2020-10-30 09:33 JST, CANADA
Beautiful little kyusu, the perfect vessel for brewing a specialty dento hon gyokuro I have been waiting to open for some time now. Dainty, smooth, and well balanced, the craftsmanship is a sight to behold especially with how well the lid sits snuggly on the lipped rim. A highly reccomended work of art, worthy of brewing some specialty tea!
No******, 2020-10-30 08:05 JST, CANADA
Very interesting texture but not my favourite flavour. This matcha was very grassy with a lot of brighter notes. It does not have the creamy or deeper chocolate notes that I like in a matcha. The texture is grittier than other matcha that I've had. I find that the flavour of this tea is also not very good when brewed only in cold water. There is only slight bitterness/astringency. I do like that I don't need to sift this matcha. If you use natsume, it's very convenient because you don't need to sift it to transfer it back into a storage container. However, this alone doesn't make up for the fact that I'm not a huge fan of the flavour.
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COMMENTS (1) ▼
Is******, 2023-09-05 16:13 JST, JAPAN
I have to agree completely. The texture is interesting because it doesn't create lumps and it's easier to make your matcha, but from my last order I'd say that this is my least favorite one.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Gyokuro competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Os******, 2020-10-22 07:49 JST, MEXICO
I haven't really tried a lot of Gyokuros, but it doesn't take more than a passion for tea to recognize a champion. This Gyokuro is one. It is the most delicious I've ever tasted in my life. The liquor of this tea is super bright light greenish yellow; smell of vanilla baked bread, buttered squash with sweet blue corn; thick, creamy, herbaceous flavor with perfect umami. In the aroma, as in the taste, fresh marine notes are distinguished. It would be a great challenge to find a better Gyokuro than this one.
Os******, 2020-10-22 06:30 JST, MEXICO
The aroma of this matcha is impressive from the beginning, it is nature showing itself to the human being. Pumpkin seeds, Colombian coffee beans passing through roasted barley and cocoa beans. Usucha: It thins the wild character of this matcha, but for those who like lighter and softer flavors it is suitable. Koicha: I am passionate about strong and intense flavors, so this form is ideal for me. Surprisingly, going a little beyond the usual amount, let's say 25% more without adding more water than usual for koicha, makes this matcha soften its flavor and intensify the experience. Chajyu no Mukashi is definitely a strong, powerful matcha and very different from the rest of matcha that Sazen offers. Not everyone could get used to this.
Li******, 2020-10-22 02:45 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This matcha tastes great. It's exceptionally smooth and mellow. Tastewise it's great everyday matcha. However, this matcha doesn't create foam at all. I personally enjoy having matcha with beautiful even foam, so I personally will not purchase this matcha again.
Did you find this review useful? (8)
COMMENTS (1) ▼
La******, 2022-10-02 06:14 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I didn't have any issue producing foam. I used an 81–95 string chasen, and whisked in zig zags (not in a circular motion, as this won't generate foam). Sifted the matcha and used 2oz hot water.
Entry grade matcha in Marukyu-Koyama’s range suitable for making usucha
Os******, 2020-10-21 09:24 JST, MEXICO
The Marukyu Koyamaen house deserves all my recognition. I have tasted their best products and also the most basic ones, like this rich starter matcha. Excellent product at a very reasonable price for those who want to start on the beautiful Matcha trail.
Marukyu Koyamaen Supreme Matcha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition
Os******, 2020-10-21 09:13 JST, MEXICO
Very special Matcha ... Matcha that accompanies and guides me at the same time in my deepest meditations in the morning ... Soft and round flavor, but with energy that harmonizes my interior ... it shows all kinds of nuances that are expected of a matcha of the highest quality. And to go one step further (for many this can be almost a sacrilege) in the search for the most interesting flavor, sometimes I mix it with "Premium Matcha Narino". This for me is touching the sky!
Os******, 2020-10-21 09:00 JST, MEXICO
These Chrysanthemum flowers have been an excellent purchase! Smooth, subtle, delicate and delicious flavor. Nothing to do with chrysanthemums bought in other stores. I rarely like to combine teas and herbal teas. But with these chrysanthemums I dared. I combined them with sheng puerh from the late 90's. The result was amazing! Both flavors were fused, giving way to an extremely rich and balanced "new product". I already want to combine them with other varieties of tea!
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Asahi tea cultivar
Ky******, 2020-10-08 03:47 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
I just received my order about 15 minutes ago and prepared in-between koicha and usucha style for my favorite preperation. 160 degree spring water. It is good -- very good. BUT it is not what I look for in matcha. I found this varietal to be mild, light, smooth and slightly creamy. It takes a few moments for the flavors to develop on the tongue after swallowing -- faint floral flavors emerge in the background. Very unique and light. It seems to lack the more savory and umami-laden richness of the Narino. The color is a nice bright green, although I was hoping for a more rich and intoxicating aroma, and a stronger flavor -- that is what I like. All things considered -- if one like lighter matcha -- perhaps someone new to matcha -- this is a good one.
Special, non-blended, single origin matcha, made of the Narino tea cultivar
Ky******, 2020-10-05 04:09 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This is my favorite matcha. I continuously search for the most premium matcha available to me in the United States, and have had many that were exceptional... Reading the info on this matcha gave me the confidence to start with a 100g tin -- i'm so glad I did. I was truly blow away by the color and rich, intoxicating savory aroma when I first opened it.. I continued to open the can to marvel at the smell all throughout the day! It's smooth, balanced, rich yet creamy. It's so good that it's almost ineffable to describe. I had matcha before this that I considered to be my favorite, but this one is like the pinnacle of matcha.. Just perfect in every way. It's one of the least bitter matchas I've had as koicha, not overpowering at all, simply pure green tea essence umami in a cup -- and as usucha the flavors are still rich! It's absolutely wonderful.
Koicha blend favoured by Yuyusai iemoto, the 15th generation grand tea master of Omotesenke school
Sa******, 2020-09-23 15:39 JST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
This tea is INCREDIBLE. Immediately after opening the bag, you can smell the sweet fragrance coming out. On first infusion, it was intensely fruity, peach, and honey, and a little bit spicy (cinnamon, maybe?). The texture was medium bodied, and has a lovely sweet finish and aftertaste. Wow! **Note: I learned you don’t need to do a “rinse” with the tea preparing the tea gongfucha-style. That way the flavor and fragrance is kept.
Sazen Tea Office, 2025-04-15 13:08 JST, JAPAN
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