What Is Hojicha?
Hojicha (ほうじ茶) is a distinctly roasted Japanese green tea that’s gaining popularity worldwide—and for good reason. While most green teas are steamed to preserve their bright, grassy notes, hojicha is roasted over high heat, transforming the leaves into a warm, toasty brew that’s incredibly smooth and easy to drink.
The result? A reddish-brown tea with a comforting aroma and naturally sweet, nutty flavour that sets it apart from the fresh, vegetal profile of other green teas like sencha or matcha.
Product in feature: Uji Hojicha 50g
How It's Made
Hojicha is typically made from bancha (a later-season green tea), kukicha (stems and twigs), or occasionally even sencha. After harvesting and drying, the tea is roasted in a porcelain pot over charcoal or gas. This roasting process reduces the bitterness and caffeine content significantly, while developing deep, earthy tones and layers of caramel, cocoa, or even roasted chestnut.
Some producers have begun creating hojicha powder, similar to matcha, which can be whisked into lattes or used in baking for a smoky-sweet flavor.
Why Hojicha Is So Loved
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Low in Caffeine: The roasting process naturally lowers the caffeine content, making hojicha a great choice for late afternoons or evenings—or for anyone who prefers a gentler tea experience.
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Naturally Sweet & Smooth: With virtually no bitterness, hojicha is a crowd-pleaser even for those new to green tea.
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Versatile: Delicious on its own, or served as a hojicha latte, iced tea, or even infused in desserts like ice cream, cookies, or cakes.
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Grounding & Comforting: Many people find the warm, toasty aroma of hojicha deeply calming—perfect for winding down after a long day.
Hojicha vs. Matcha
Though both are Japanese green teas, hojicha and matcha offer very different experiences. Matcha is vibrant, grassy, and energizing—thanks to its higher caffeine and L-theanine content. Hojicha, on the other hand, is mellow, roasted, and soothing. If matcha is your go-to morning ritual, hojicha might just be your new favourite evening companion.
Product in feature: Premium Izumo Matcha 50g
Final Sip
Whether you're exploring Japanese teas for the first time or looking to expand your tea routine, hojicha offers a uniquely cozy and calming experience. It’s a beautiful expression of how roasting can completely transform a green tea’s personality—softening its edges and deepening its character.
