If kimchee embodies the soul of Korea, then green tea serves the same role here. Green tea has been a part of Japan’s culture ever since it was introduced from China in the 9th century A.D., and like many other words that represent especially important concepts to the Japanese, the honorific prefix o is bestowed on it (o-cha). There are, of course, more types of “green” tea than encompassed by the English word, including ryoku-cha for the traditional light green drink that’s most familiar to everyone, the darker matcha made from tea powder, plus other varieties such as roasted hoji-cha or genmai-cha with toasted rice in it. One thing I love about Japan are green tea vending machines which dispense green tea for free, often found at hot springs or “parking areas” (rest stops) along the freeway. Green tea is very healthy, and studies suggest it can improve cognitive function, reduce cavities and keep more serious diseases away, and rightly or wrongly, the Japanese attribute much of their famous longevity to the drink. Incidentally, J-List has some awesome green tea related products for you, if you want to check them out.
A beautiful image of green tea groves in Shizuoka, with Mt. Fuji in the background.
