The Rise of Hojicha: Japan’s Roasted Tea Captivating the World

As matcha’s popularity spreads across the globe, Hojicha — Japan’s roasted green tea — is emerging as the next favorite for tea lovers seeking warmth, balance, and authenticity.


From Matcha’s Fame to Hojicha’s Discovery

Over the past decade, the world has fallen in love with Japanese tea — beginning with the vibrant green allure of matcha. As people learned about Japan’s meticulous tea-making traditions and the wellness benefits of green tea, curiosity naturally expanded beyond matcha. This global recognition of matcha has opened the door for a deeper appreciation of Japan’s other traditional teas — most notably, Hojicha.

Hōjicha, a roasted green tea originally from Kyoto, offers a completely different sensory experience. Its soft amber color, smoky aroma, and gentle sweetness have begun to charm tea drinkers who seek something comforting and less intense than matcha.


What Makes Hojicha Unique

Unlike other green teas, Hojicha is made by roasting tea leaves, stems, or twigs over high heat. This process reduces bitterness and caffeine while creating a toasty, nutty flavor that feels soothing and nostalgic. The result is a tea that’s both refreshing and calming — a perfect evening companion or a mindful moment in the middle of a busy day.

Hojicha’s versatility has also made it a modern favorite. Baristas and chefs worldwide now use Hojicha powder in lattes, ice cream, pastries, and even cocktails, giving it a stylish yet natural presence in contemporary food culture.


The Global Appeal of Hojicha

The current wellness movement values authenticity, simplicity, and natural ingredients — all of which Hojicha represents. Its lower caffeine content and rich antioxidants make it suitable for anyone seeking balance and comfort. In a sense, Hojicha reflects what many are longing for today: warmth, mindfulness, and connection through simplicity.


NAGOMI’s Craft and Philosophy

At NAGOMI Japanese Green Tea, we carefully source Hojicha from local farmers in Japan. Every cup expresses the essence of NAGOMI — harmony between nature, tradition, and modern life.

As the world rediscovers Japanese tea, Hojicha stands as a beautiful evolution — inspired by matcha’s global success, yet offering its own story of calm, warmth, and authenticity.