Wakocha Honyama
Shizukaori Organic

Tea Farm

With a family legacy dating back to Japan’s late medieval period, this tea farm is a true gem among Shizuoka’s organic estates. Nestled on secluded hillsides surrounding a mountain in the heart of Honyama, the farm contains over 200 tea fields and grows over 20 different cultivars, all entirely family-owned. The tea farm is run by the 4th generation farmer together with her father, who transitioned to pesticide-free cultivation back in the 1980s. The reason was both personal and ecological: The once-pure rivers in the valley began to lose their clarity and developed a foul odour, as a direct result of pesticide use in the surrounding fields. With a deep connection to the nature of the mountain and to the people in the valley, the farmer saw no reconciliation between pesticide use and his vision of tea as a drink meant to nourish both body and mind. In addition to producing exceptional Sencha from a wide range of cultivars, including rare, farm-exclusive varieties developed by the farmer himself, the estate is also celebrated for its remarkably aromatic Wakocha (Japanese black tea) and Gyokuro. The Gyokuro in particular harmoniously expresses the farm’s unique terroir along with a beautifully balanced, rich umami flavour.

Wakocha

Wakocha (和紅茶) is the name given to black teas from Japan. Although once an important trade commodity until the latter half of the 20th century, growing competition from India and China pushed Japanese black tea into relative obscurity. Only in the past two decades has there been a revival and renewed appreciation of this heritage. Wakocha, while distinct in character, are generally milder in flavour than many other black teas, often marked by fruity-floral notes and, above all, a pleasant honeyed sweetness. For this reason, they are typically enjoyed without milk or sugar. Alongside the tea capital of Shizuoka, the southern main island of Kyushu is especially renowned for producing high-quality Wakocha.

Yoshi En

World's Finest Organic Teas

Our comprehensive portfolio focuses on organic, single-origin teas sourced directly from renowned farms. We believe in creating partnerships with farmers who share our values and are committed to sustainable, responsible tea cultivation. Thanks to these strong relationships our exciting range is constantly growing and evolving. As an international team of dedicated and passionate tea experts, we are committed to preserving centuries-old tea culture while ensuring it remains relevant and continues to bring joy in the present. About Yoshi En.