Mecha and Other Demono teas. - Chado April 2022
Mecha - The unsung hero of Japanese Tea.
Sencha is the most popular Japanese green tea, accounting for over 60% of the country's total tea production.
Gyokuro is perhaps the most prized of the Japanese teas, and it is certainly the most pampered. Its leaves are shaded from the sun during the last weeks of growth before harvesting. The production uses only young, small leaves, and the whole process is very labor intensive, which makes the tea comparatively expensive.
Mecha is not a well-known tea outside of Japan, and that is a real shame. It is a bargain for tea lovers who like a robust and astringent taste. Mecha is a collection of torn-off leaf tips and buds dried into tiny ball shapes.
If one looks up Mecha on Google, one will find articles mainly about Japanese science fiction, Manga, and anime. In that context, Mecha is all about machines. Mecha in the tea context is all about robust flavor and value for money.
Mecha is regarded as one of the “Demono” teas, which are by-products of making Sencha or Gyokuro. Mecha (buds tea), Kukicha (stems and twigs tea), and Konacha(flake tea) are “Demono” teas and all by-products of making Sencha or Gyokuro. When Sencha or Gyokuro is produced, some unnecessary parts for those teas are sifted out. The collections of those parts are called “Demono” tea. Generally speaking, Demono teas are reasonably priced.
We currently offer two Mecha teas - mecha standard and Mechakucha unsorted that includes all parts of the tea plant - buds, leaf tips and stems.
Although the packaging of these two teas looks similar, the difference is more obvious when we look at the tea inside.
Mecha buds tea.
Mecha is often regarded as being in the same class as premium grade Sencha. The tea has a distinctive richness and satisfies a desire for a stimulating drink. Mecha is a collection of only the tiny buds and tea leaf tips that have a concentrated umami taste. Mecha has a strong aroma and flavor.
Mecha tea is a bold and rich tea, great for an afternoon drink to increase your energy. If you like robust Sencha, give Mecha buds tea a try we think you will be happy you did.
MechaKucha Buds, Stem and Leaves Green Tea
Deeply steamed Fukamushi unsorted Japanese Green tea that contains all parts - leaves, stems, and buds. This refreshing and complex tea is from Shizuoka.
If you are looking for rich, robust, and strong Sencha, we recommend trying this MechaKucha Japanese green tea. It is very refreshing and has great value, with sweet umami-rich overtones.
This tea can easily be brewed 2-3 times and still provide a good flavor.
Sakura Days is back and it was a great success
A good time was hopefully had by all at the Sakura Days Japan Fair in Vancouver on April 10-11th.
The turnout was certainly bigger than expected. Queues to get into the venue stretched for several 100m at various times during the day.
It seems everyone in attendance was anxious to get out and enjoy the sunshine, the blossom and the Japanese vibe.
We were lucky to get to meet some of our web customers, old and new, and it was great to meet again or to put a face to the online shopper.
Our friend produced a video that is on her YouTube channel – check it out and we hope to see you in person next year.
The turnout was certainly bigger than expected. Queues to get into the venue stretched for several 100m at various times during the day.
It seems everyone in attendance was anxious to get out and enjoy the sunshine, the blossom and the Japanese vibe.
We were lucky to get to meet some of our web customers, old and new, and it was great to meet again or to put a face to the online shopper.
Our friend produced a video that is on her YouTube channel – check it out and we hope to see you in person next year.
To conclude this month. we would like to let you know that Shincha is coming soon!
You know it is spring in Japan when the excitement of shincha starts to rise. Like Beaujolais Nouveau in the wine world, Shincha is the first tea of the season. Shincha is harvested on the 88th day after the first day of spring in the traditional Japanese calendar.
We are working on our 2022 Shincha products and we will have more on this exciting arrival next month.
Shincha time is always a new and exciting time in the Japanese tea world.
REFERENCE SECTION
Teatime Terminology Treats
Wakoucha
Wakoucha (和紅茶), sometimes called Wakocha, is a distinct style of black tea produced in Japan. Unlike the more well-known Japanese green teas such as sencha, matcha, or gyokuro, wakoucha is withered and oxidized, making it a unique addition to Japan’s tea culture. Although Japan is primarily associated with green tea, wakoucha is an emerging tea representing a smaller but growing part of the country's tea production.
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Origins and History
The origins of wakoucha date back to the late 19th century when Japan first began experimenting with black tea production. Japanese tea farmers sought to enter the international market in response to the global demand for black tea, especially from the West. However, Japan's black tea has never gained the same recognition as tea in other countries like India, Sri Lanka, or China. As a result, production remained relatively small, and it wasn’t until more recent years that wakoucha began gaining attention again.
Today, wakoucha is primarily produced in regions known for their green tea cultivation, such as Shizuoka, Kagoshima, and Kyoto. There is a fresh interest in developing Japanese black tea called Wakoucha.
Flavor Profile
Wakoucha has a distinctive flavor compared to other black teas worldwide. Its taste is often mellow and smooth, lacking the astringency of many other black teas. Depending on the region and the processing steps the producer carries out; it can exhibit sweet, fruity, or even floral notes, making it a unique tea that appeals to black tea enthusiasts and those who typically prefer milder flavors. This mildness is partly due to the specific cultivars of tea plants used in Japan, which are traditionally selected for green tea production.
For Wakocha, the tea is picked and then allowed to wither. The withering results in the tea oxidizing and turning on a dark color. It also allows the membrane of the leaves to soften, and the water content drops. After withering, the tea is rolled and dried; the rolling is easier because of the withering. The tea may be pan-fired to give it a roasted taste, depending on the taste the producer wishes to impart
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The withering process in general has two effects on the leaves :
- Physical softening: During subsequent processing, the leaves become more pliable and easier to roll or shape. Without this step, they would be too brittle and break instead of rolling.
- Chemical transformation: The reduction in moisture triggers enzymatic reactions that begin the oxidation process. These reactions affect the flavor compounds in the leaves, contributing to the final tea's unique aromas and taste profiles. The degree of oxidation varies depending on the type of tea being made and the wishes of the farmer/production facility
Wakoucha in Modern Japan
There has been renewed interest in wakoucha domestically and internationally in recent years. Japanese farmers have refined their production techniques, focusing on quality and developing more regionally specific teas. Wakoucha is often enjoyed without milk or sugar, allowing its nuanced flavors to shine. It can also be used in tea ceremonies, reflecting Japan's deep respect for tea culture.
The quality of Wakocha varies; we have had some outstanding Wakocha and hope to have some for sale in the coming seasons. As mentioned, the quantities are small at this time, but as the farmers' experience increases, we expect to see larger quantities and higher-quality teas—we look forward to bringing them to you to try.
Japanese Ceramics and Pottery
Japanese pottery and ceramics have a rich history that spans centuries, with each region in Japan contributing unique styles and techniques to this ancient art form. From the functional elegance of tea sets to the timeless beauty of decorative vases, Japanese ceramics continue to captivate collectors, historians, and pottery enthusiasts worldwide. Here, we will only scratch the art form's surface; many weighty tomes are devoted to this fascinating subject.
We are keen amateurs when it comes to Japanese pottery. We love to use it and admire its beauty and utility.
Just to get started, here is a list of terms that we find helpful to remember:
- Pottery: The craft or process of making objects from clay.
- Ceramics: The broader category of all clay-fired objects, including pottery and other items like tiles and advanced ceramics.
- Earthenware: A type of low-fired pottery that is porous and softer, often used for decorative and rustic items.
- Stoneware: A high-fired, non-porous, and durable type of pottery.
- Porcelain: A fine, high-fired ceramic known for its smoothness, strength, and translucence.
The Historical Legacy of Japanese Pottery
Japan's pottery tradition dates back over 10,000 years, with early examples of ancient pottery in Japan showcasing utilitarian and ceremonial uses. The evolution of Japanese ceramics reflects the nation’s culture, customs, and philosophy. Many potters took inspiration from nature, creating simple yet aesthetically pleasing forms.
Ancient pottery in Japan often consisted of earthenware vessels used for cooking and storage, while later styles, like Arita porcelain, introduced fine, delicate ware that became a symbol of luxury.
Exploring Key Styles of Japanese Pottery
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Image by Gryffindor
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Image by Mr.Nostalgic
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Images Suguru F
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Image by Gryffindor
Minoyaki:
Timeless Beauty
Minoyaki is one of the most recognized styles of Japanese ceramics, originating from the Mino region in Gifu Prefecture. Known for its versatility and beauty, Minoyaki spans various types of pottery, from simple bowls to more decorative pieces. The hallmark of Minoyaki lies in its glazed surfaces and hand-painted motifs, making it one of the most popular styles.
Minoyaki is one of the most recognized styles of Japanese ceramics, originating from the Mino region in Gifu Prefecture. Known for its versatility and beauty, Minoyaki spans various types of pottery, from simple bowls to more decorative pieces. The hallmark of Minoyaki lies in its glazed surfaces and hand-painted motifs, making it one of the most popular styles.
Echizenyaki:
Rugged and Refined
Echizenyaki pottery comes from the Fukui Prefecture and is one of the oldest forms of Japanese ceramics, dating back to the Heian period. Characterized by its rough texture and natural earth tones, Echizenyaki pottery has an organic aesthetic that appeals to those who appreciate the beauty of unglazed, rustic ceramics.
Echizenyaki pottery comes from the Fukui Prefecture and is one of the oldest forms of Japanese ceramics, dating back to the Heian period. Characterized by its rough texture and natural earth tones, Echizenyaki pottery has an organic aesthetic that appeals to those who appreciate the beauty of unglazed, rustic ceramics.
Shigarakiyaki:
Ancient Kilns of Shigaraki
Shigarakiyaki, produced in Shiga Prefecture, is known for its historical significance as one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. The first kilns date back to the 13th century. This pottery style is known for its Japanese stoneware bowls and other functional items. It often features a natural, ash-glazed surface and subtle color variations resulting from the unique firing process. Raccoons that frequently adorn the entrance to bars and restaurants in Japan for good fortune are made from clay using this style.
Shigarakiyaki, produced in Shiga Prefecture, is known for its historical significance as one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. The first kilns date back to the 13th century. This pottery style is known for its Japanese stoneware bowls and other functional items. It often features a natural, ash-glazed surface and subtle color variations resulting from the unique firing process. Raccoons that frequently adorn the entrance to bars and restaurants in Japan for good fortune are made from clay using this style.
Kyoyaki:
The Elegance of Kyoto Ceramics
Kyoyaki, also known as Kyoto ceramics, is refined and delicate pottery made in the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto. It is prized for its intricate designs and bright colors, often used in decorative items such as Japanese ceramic vases and tea ceremony ware. Items made using this technique are often recognized by their ivory-colored glaze and Intricate decorations. The high craftsmanship and attention to detail make Kyoyaki ceramics sought after both domestically and internationally.
Kyoyaki, also known as Kyoto ceramics, is refined and delicate pottery made in the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto. It is prized for its intricate designs and bright colors, often used in decorative items such as Japanese ceramic vases and tea ceremony ware. Items made using this technique are often recognized by their ivory-colored glaze and Intricate decorations. The high craftsmanship and attention to detail make Kyoyaki ceramics sought after both domestically and internationally.
Rakuyaki:
The Simplicity of Raku Ware
Rakuyaki, or Raku ware, originated in the 16th century and is deeply tied to the Japanese tea ceremony. The irregular, hand-molded shapes and crackled surfaces of Rakuyaki pieces embody the principles of wabi-sabi, the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection. Karu is fired at a lower temperature than many other styles, making it delicate. Raku ware is often seen in Japanese ceramic teapots, cups, and bowls, valued for its earthy charm and simplicity. fragile.
Rakuyaki, or Raku ware, originated in the 16th century and is deeply tied to the Japanese tea ceremony. The irregular, hand-molded shapes and crackled surfaces of Rakuyaki pieces embody the principles of wabi-sabi, the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection. Karu is fired at a lower temperature than many other styles, making it delicate. Raku ware is often seen in Japanese ceramic teapots, cups, and bowls, valued for its earthy charm and simplicity. fragile.
Tambayaki:
Country Stoneware from Hyogo
Tambayaki hails from Tamba, Hyogo Prefecture, one of Japan's oldest pottery traditions. Known for its robust, rustic quality, Tambayaki is primarily used for everyday items like bowls, vases, and storage jars. This style's thick, coarse texture of Japanese earthenware reflects its functionality and durability, making it a staple in many Japanese homes.
Tambayaki hails from Tamba, Hyogo Prefecture, one of Japan's oldest pottery traditions. Known for its robust, rustic quality, Tambayaki is primarily used for everyday items like bowls, vases, and storage jars. This style's thick, coarse texture of Japanese earthenware reflects its functionality and durability, making it a staple in many Japanese homes.
Bizenyaki:
The Art of Flame
Bizenyaki is one of Japan’s most famous styles, known for its unglazed, high-fired stoneware that showcases the natural effects and earthy colors of the kiln’s flames. Bizen ceramics Japan are often considered works of art due to their distinctive texture and the interplay of fire and clay that results in unique patterns. Collectors around the world appreciate Bizen Japanese pottery for its rustic and natural beauty.
Hagiyaki:
Bizenyaki is one of Japan’s most famous styles, known for its unglazed, high-fired stoneware that showcases the natural effects and earthy colors of the kiln’s flames. Bizen ceramics Japan are often considered works of art due to their distinctive texture and the interplay of fire and clay that results in unique patterns. Collectors around the world appreciate Bizen Japanese pottery for its rustic and natural beauty.
Hagiyaki:
Delicate Cracks and Wabi-Sabi
Hagiyaki pottery from Yamaguchi Prefecture is well-known for its fine cracks in the glaze, a feature highly prized in the tea ceremony culture. Brought to Japan from Korea in 16th Century.The crackle in Hagiyaki is not considered a flaw but rather a representation of the passage of time and use. This Japanese cracked pottery embodies the essence of wabi-sabi, celebrating the beauty found in imperfection.
Hagiyaki pottery from Yamaguchi Prefecture is well-known for its fine cracks in the glaze, a feature highly prized in the tea ceremony culture. Brought to Japan from Korea in 16th Century.The crackle in Hagiyaki is not considered a flaw but rather a representation of the passage of time and use. This Japanese cracked pottery embodies the essence of wabi-sabi, celebrating the beauty found in imperfection.
Aritayaki:
Japan’s Porcelain Masterpiece
Aritayaki, or Arita porcelain, is a fine Japanese porcelain from Saga Prefecture. It was brought to Japan from Korea in about the 16th century. It is famous for its intricate blue-and-white designs, similar to Japanese blue-and-white porcelain in other regions. Arita yaki porcelain is highly valued for its beauty, precision, and delicate nature, making it one of the most famous forms of Japanese ceramic ware.
Aritayaki, or Arita porcelain, is a fine Japanese porcelain from Saga Prefecture. It was brought to Japan from Korea in about the 16th century. It is famous for its intricate blue-and-white designs, similar to Japanese blue-and-white porcelain in other regions. Arita yaki porcelain is highly valued for its beauty, precision, and delicate nature, making it one of the most famous forms of Japanese ceramic ware.
Setoyaki and Tokonameyaki:
Versatile Ceramics for Everyday Use
Setoyaki and Tokonameyaki are two traditional pottery styles known for their utility and beauty. Setoyaki is widely produced in Aichi Prefecture and is recognized for its smooth, glazed finish and wide range of products, including Japanese ceramic plates, bowls, and decorative items. Tokonameyaki, from Aichi's Tokoname City, is known for its sturdy brown ceramic teapots and other everyday items made in Japan.
Setoyaki and Tokonameyaki are two traditional pottery styles known for their utility and beauty. Setoyaki is widely produced in Aichi Prefecture and is recognized for its smooth, glazed finish and wide range of products, including Japanese ceramic plates, bowls, and decorative items. Tokonameyaki, from Aichi's Tokoname City, is known for its sturdy brown ceramic teapots and other everyday items made in Japan.
The Art of Kintsugi: Repairing Pottery with Gold
One of the most unique aspects of Japanese pottery culture is the practice of Kintsugi, the Japanese art of broken pottery. When a ceramic piece breaks, the Japanese practice repairing it with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum instead of discarding it. This technique is known as broken pottery art in Japan, and it transforms broken vessels into something even more valuable. The gold lines that trace the cracks highlight the piece's history and imperfections, adding depth and meaning. The concept of broken pottery gold in Japan reflects the Japanese philosophy of embracing flaws and seeing them as part of an object’s beauty.
Summary
Japanese pottery and ceramics are deeply rooted in the country’s history, culture, and philosophy. From the ancient kilns of Shigaraki to the refined elegance of Kyoto ceramics, each style tells a story of craftsmanship, tradition, and beauty. Whether you're drawn to the rustic charm of Bizenyaki, the delicate artistry of Aritayaki, or the transformative beauty of Kintsugi, Japanese ceramics offer a glimpse into Japan’s artistic soul. Whether shopping for Japanese pottery online or visiting a local artisan, each piece you encounter carries the weight of centuries of tradition and innovation.
We try to persuade our customers to invest in a kyusu if they do not already have one. There are modern alternatives to using this traditional teapot with a filter, but we always get a sense of peace from using a kyusu, even a modern, inexpensive version. Its classic shape, simplicity, and functionality suit the whole Japanese tea experience and allow us to crave some of the more expensive Japanese ceramics and pottery we can only dream of owning.