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Welcome Summer with Shincha: The Deep Elegance of Fukamushi Sencha Green Tea

May 06, 2025 3 min read

As the first flush of summer arrives in Japan, tea lovers rejoice in one of the most treasured seasonal offerings: Shincha, the year’s first harvest of Sencha green tea.

What Is Fukamushi Sencha?

Fukamushi Sencha (深蒸し煎茶), or “deep-steamed green tea,” is a special variety of Japanese Sencha that undergoes a longer steaming process than standard green teas. This extra step breaks down the tea leaves more thoroughly, resulting in:

  • A vibrant, cloudy green liquor
  • A mellow, less astringent flavor
  • A fuller body with deep umami richness
  • A shorter steep time and gentler texture

Ideal for those who appreciate smooth, nourishing teas, Fukamushi Sencha is especially well-suited for Shincha season, when the young leaves are at their most tender and flavorful.

Why June Is Special: The Shincha Season

Shincha (新茶) means “new tea,” and refers to the earliest picks of the season — typically harvested around the 88th day of spring (Hachijuhachiya). These tender young leaves are rich in nutrients and flavor, known for their:

  • Theanine – promotes calm focus and relaxation
  • Catechins – immune support and antioxidants
  • Vitamin C – great for skin health and energy

Only available in limited quantities and for a short time each year, Shincha offers a taste of seasonal renewal and is traditionally believed to bring good health and fortune for the year ahead. For generations, Japanese families have gathered to enjoy this refreshing and ceremonial tea.

Kyoto’s Tea Legacy: A Region of Refinement

Our Fukamushi Sencha is grown in the historic Uji region of Kyoto , a place revered for centuries as Japan’s premier tea-growing area. Here, expert farmers use time-honored techniques to coax out the natural sweetness and delicate aroma of the leaves. The result is a tea with exceptional balance: smooth, clean, and deeply satisfying.

This season's tea is a beautiful expression of Uji’s artistry. It reflects the gentle climate, fertile soil, and traditional craftsmanship passed down for generations. Whether you're a longtime tea enthusiast or new to Japanese tea, Uji's sencha delivers an unparalleled sensory experience.

How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Fukamushi Sencha

To fully appreciate the flavor and texture of Fukamushi Sencha, follow these steps:

  1. Warm your teaware – pour hot water into your teapot and cups to stabilize temperature.
  2. Add 3g of tea leaves (about 1 heaping teaspoon) per serving.
  3. Cool boiling water to 70–75°C (158–167°F) – this preserves the delicate umami.
  4. Steep for 40–50 seconds – the tea brews quickly due to the deep-steamed leaves.
  5. Pour to the last drop – the final golden drop holds the richest flavor.

Pro tip: Avoid shaking the teapot. Let the leaves steep quietly for a clean, mellow infusion.

Pairing Tea with Seasonal Snacks

Momoca makes it easy to savor your tea moments with our curated Fresh Veggies Tea & Snack Box . This June, enjoy your sencha alongside seasonal Japanese delicacies like crispy lotus root chips, ume plum seasoning, and sweet beans yokan. Each item is chosen to complement the subtle depth of the tea, creating a moment of balance and calm.

Why We Love This Tea for Summer

As the weather warms and our bodies seek lighter, nourishing options, Fukamushi Sencha stands out. Its gentle, digestive-friendly nature makes it ideal for afternoon sipping or as a mindful ritual to start your day. The soft umami, fresh vegetal notes, and beautiful green hue remind us to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature’s rhythm.

Final Sip: A Seasonal Ritual of Wellness

More than just a beverage, Shincha season is an invitation to align with the rhythms of spring and summer. By choosing Fukamushi Sencha , you’re partaking in a centuries-old tradition that celebrates health, harmony, and renewal.

Don’t miss this fleeting opportunity to taste one of Japan’s rarest and most elegant teas. Shop now and enjoy the seasonal magic of our Fresh Veggies Tea & Snack Box — featuring our Kyoto-grown Fukamushi Sencha, only available for a limited time.

 


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