Tamaryokucha
IKKYU offers a curated collection of Tamaryokucha green tea (“coiled tea”) sourced exclusively from small, independent producers across Kyushu. It is a high-grade green tea that is very similar to sencha and is also commonly known as guricha (“curly tea”). It has a tangy, berry-like taste with a long almondy aftertaste and a deep aroma with tones of citrus, grass, and berries. Kumamoto and Nagasaki prefectures are regions specializing in this tea, which is produced by steaming the youngest leaves after the harvest. The steamed (mushi-sei) style dominates this region and represents decades of refined tea craftsmanship. In Nagasaki, the town of Higashi Sonogi accounts for around 60% of the prefecture’s tea output, thanks to its skilled tea farms and favorable coastal and hilly environment. The leaves are rolled into “comma” shapes (instead of being kneaded into “needle” shapes, like for sencha). Tamaryokucha tea is golden yellow and can be reinfused, with a slightly different taste. This traditional method preserves essential oils, resulting in a rich aroma and smooth, rounded flavor. For more background on how Tamaryokucha is crafted and the stories behind our partner producers, check our tea journal for insights direct from Kyushu. Explore our first-harvest selectionOur tea selection includes both organic and conventional first-harvest options. Some blends are deep-steamed and lower in caffeine, offering a balanced cup suitable for everyday enjoyment or afternoon calm. Every variety is carefully packed for lasting freshness and, for easy gifting, can be presented in elegant washi paper at an additional cost. Discover more Japanese teas onlineOur Tamaryokucha tea is part of a broader range of specialty and unique Japanese green teas, all sourced directly from farmers and available in loose-leaf, matcha, tea bag, and luxury boxed formats. If you are new to Japanese tea or simply expanding your collection, IKKYU offers transparent sourcing, expert support, and carefully selected varieties shipped from Fukuoka. We also work with wholesale clients globally, from independent cafes to established tea brands. Through IKKYU, professional buyers can access a vast network of certified organic and specialty teas in bulk, private label, or branded formats with responsive multilingual support. Want to explore more varieties like this? Browse our full tea range today. Check our FAQs for detailed guidance on brewing and benefits, and for tailored advice, contact our team. We are always happy to help. |