This is kamairicha, which is a really special green tea. It is wild green tea that's foraged from the mountainsides. Because it's foraged, the tea leaves tend to be more mature than a typically farmed sencha. This lends to earthier, softer, nuttier flavors in the brewed tea. It's such a special tea and it rarely makes it into the States. You don't know Japanese tea until you try really nice Japanese tea, and here's your chance! 

Directions: Bring water to a boil. Put tea leaves in a teapot; use 4-5g of tea leaves per 1 cup of water. Once the water is boiling, remove from heat and wait 30 sec. Pour the hot water into your teacup or mug and wait 30 sec. Then pour this water from your teacup into the teapot. Steep for 1 minute and serve. For the second serving: pour hot water over the used tea leaves and then immediately serve. Repeat for a third serving.

Pro-tip: Japanese green teas will taste bitter if you use water that's too hot. If you prefer a milder taste, brew at slightly lower temperatures.

Hiwa Tea is a Portland-based company founded by Yukiko-san. This is a collaboration between her and Kitagawa-En, an established tea shop run by certified Japanese Tea Advisor, Takuro Kitagawa, based in Kyushu, Japan. 

50g loose leaf tea

Vegan, gluten-free, soy-free.