Matcha-infused Genmaicha (Green Tea with Roasted Rice) by Nakai-san’s farm

This Genmaicha is cultivated on Nakai-san’s tea farm in Wazuka, Kyoto. Both the tea leaves and the rice used are grown without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or herbicides.

• Net weight: 80g
• Best used by: 15 March 2025
• Origin: Kyoto, Japan

How to Drink Genmaicha

• Leaves: 6g
• Water: 200ml at 90°C
• Steep Time: 1 min

You can cold-brew it in hot weather.

How to Cold Brew Genmaicha

• Leaves: 10g (approximately 1 spoon)
• Water: 1L
• Steep Time: 3 hours in the fridge or overnight

What is Genmaicha

Genmaicha is a type of Japanese tea that combines green tea leaves with roasted rice. Because of roasted rice, Genmaicha has less caffeine than regular green tea.

There are various theories about the origin of Genmaicha, but the most credible suggests it was created in Kyoto in 1920s. According to one story, it was invented by adding roasted pieces of mochi (rice cake) leftover from New Year celebrations to tea, and the result was so delicious that it was turned into a product.

Another theory is that Genmaicha started with adding the crispy rice grains left in the pot after cooking rice to tea. In any case, Genmaicha began with a spirit of avoiding waste and appreciating rice.

Having sold this tea in Estonia for over a year now, I’ve been surprised to find that Genmaicha is quite popular! The savory aroma of the rice really makes it delicious.

About Nakai farm

Nakai Farm is a small family-owned business operated by Nakai-san and his father. Despite its size, their operation is expansive, managing 23 tea fields in Wazuka, Kyoto—a region known for its steep, scenic tea fields. The duo navigates narrow mountain paths by truck, a thrilling experience that I have also shared!

Several years ago, Nakai-san transitioned to farming without pesticides, not only to ensure human safety but also to preserve the scenic beauty of Wazuka.

This transition reduced their potential yield from 6,000 kg to about 3,000 kg of tea leaves annually. However, their commitment to quality over quantity has been well-received, earning accolades from individual consumers and a prestigious hotel in Kyoto.

Nakai Farm’s tea is now available internationally, exclusively through Tokubestu — the only place abroad where you can find this exceptional Japanese tea.