Ito En Genmaicha Green Tea with Roasted Rice

This Ito-En genmaicha has a bold, nutty flavor from the roasted rice mixed with green tea. Think toasted grain with an earthy green tea backdrop—it's warm and comforting, almost like popcorn met your tea leaves. The roasted rice notes are really pronounced here, giving it a stronger, more assertive character than typical grocery store versions.

It definitely has a bolder flavor profile than most entry-level genmaichas. One reviewer mentioned it was 'very strong' at first, but they grew to love it. If you're curious about authentic Japanese genmaicha, this is a great introduction—just know it won't be subtle. Start with a shorter steep time if you're sensitive to strong flavors, and you can always adjust from there.

Multiple reviewers say this actually beats pricier specialty brands they've tried. You're getting authentic Ito-En quality—a respected Japanese tea brand—at a fraction of the cost. The large 10.6-ounce bags mean you're getting excellent value, and the Subscribe & Save option means you don't need to make special trips to Asian grocery stores.

The packaging doesn't include English brewing instructions, so you might need to look up steeping guidelines online (typically 1-2 minutes at around 175-180°F works well for genmaicha). Also, a couple reviewers noted the packaging looked different from what was advertised, though the tea quality itself was consistently praised.

Reviewers specifically mentioned the freshness of the tea even with the large bag size. The vacuum-sealed packaging helps preserve that roasted rice aroma and flavor. Just reseal the bag well after each use, or transfer to an airtight container if you want to be extra cautious. The generous size means you can enjoy this tea daily without worrying about running out quickly.

This is perfect for anyone who appreciates bold, earthy teas with character. If you like roasted, nutty flavors—or if you're already a fan of genmaicha and want something more authentic than what's typically available at mainstream stores—this will hit the spot. It's also great for daily drinkers who want quality without the specialty tea shop price tag.