Kawashimaya Organic Genmaicha

This genmaicha is all about that toasted rice aroma and flavor—it's the star of the show here. Think of it as a warm, nutty, almost popcorn-like taste that mingles with gentle green tea notes. The rice gives it a naturally sweet, toasty character that softens any bitterness from the green tea. It's delicate and refreshing rather than strong, with subtle herbaceous and grassy undertones. Some drinkers even pick up a slightly soy-like aroma. If you're expecting a bold green tea punch, this leans more toward the mild, comforting side.

Absolutely. This is one of the most beginner-friendly Japanese teas you can try. The roasted rice naturally balances out the green tea's bitterness, making it less intimidating if you're not used to that vegetal, grassy flavor. People who normally don't like strong teas often enjoy genmaicha because it's so mild and approachable. Plus, the brewing instructions are clear, and even if you steep it a bit long, the rice keeps it from getting too bitter.

You're getting nice, full tea leaves with minimal dust or powder, which is a good sign of quality. Several customers specifically noted how fresh and whole the leaves looked. It's authentic Japanese tea from the Uji Kyoto region, which has a solid reputation. That said, some reviewers describe it as 'middle of the road' quality—it's good, reliable, everyday tea, but not necessarily an exceptional artisan blend. For organic Japanese tea at this price point, it's considered a solid value.

This is definitely on the lighter, more delicate side. A couple of reviewers mentioned the tea flavor is subtle compared to the prominent rice taste. If you love a bold, punchy green tea, you might find this a bit mild. The good news is you can adjust your brewing—use more tea, hotter water, or a longer steep time to coax out more flavor. But if you're after a strong, assertive tea experience, this might not hit the mark. It's really designed to be a gentle, balanced everyday sipper.

Yes, it comes in a resealable bag that helps maintain freshness, which customers appreciate. Just be aware that some people have received batches with relatively short expiration dates, so it's worth checking when yours arrives. Store it properly in a cool, dark place and you should be fine, but this is tea you'll want to enjoy rather than let sit around for months.

Yes, tea enthusiasts and Japanese customers alike confirm this tastes authentic. It's sourced from Uji Kyoto, a respected tea-growing region in Japan, and the quality of the full leaves shows. While it's not the most premium genmaicha out there, it's a legitimate, well-made product that represents the style properly. It's a great entry point if you're exploring Japanese tea varieties and want something genuine without breaking the bank.