Takachiho Oolong

Called the "Land of the Gods" due to its central role in Japanese mythology, Takachiho is known mostly for its spiritual significance and dramatic waterfalls and gorges. In the tea world, Takachiho and its neighbouring villages of Gokase and Hinokage are known as the top producers of kamairicha. Introduced to this region from China in the 1300s, the once-common pan-firing technique of producing green tea has been perfected and preserved in this region. Today, kamairicha makes up less that 0.5% of Japanese tea. The mountainous terrain, wide temperature fluctuations between day and night, and abundant fog make the region ideal for growing high-quality tea.

Named after the famed kamairicha-producing town, this cultivar was selected from local zairai seedlings in 1953 at the Miyazaki Agricultural Research Institute. Coincidentally, that was the same year that the Yabukita cultivar was first registered. As its namesake suggests, this cultivar was developed specifically for kamairicha production, and as such develops a good flavour and aroma when pan-fired. Additionally, it has a slightly thicker leaf than most other cultivars, meaning it forms visually appealing curls as it is fired and dries.