Kyobancha by Azuma Farm

Azuma Tea Garden’s Kyobancha is a uniquely smoky, roasted green tea crafted from leaves that have been left to mature over the cold winter months. Grown in the mountainous region of Wazuka, Kyoto, the tea plants are harvested in early March, just before the arrival of the spring season.

The leaves are steamed and dried, but unlike most green teas, they are not rolled, maintaining a more open leaf structure. The real magic of Kyobancha happens during the roasting process. A specialist roasts the leaves at high heat, which infuses the tea with a deep, smoky aroma that sets it apart from more delicate green teas.

This robust, earthy tea has been a beloved seasonal offering in the region for centuries. Known for its warm, comforting character, Kyobancha is a tea that speaks to the resilience of the land and its people, reflecting the careful, time-honored craftsmanship of the Azuma family. The result is a full-bodied, hearty tea with a strong smoky flavor that pairs well with rich foods or acts as a comforting drink during cold seasons.