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hojicha loose leaf teas

7 Best Hojicha Loose Leaf Teas – A Roasted Green Tea Guide for Connoisseurs

Looking for premium hojicha? You'll find exceptional options in Matcha Moon's organic powder, Yamamotoyama's bulk loose leaf, and Premium Japanese Hojicha's authentic leaves. For organic enthusiasts, Ocha & Co. and Organic Positively Tea Company offer excellent choices. Each brand delivers unique roasted notes, from smoky to nutty flavors, with varying caffeine levels and brewing requirements. Whether you're a daily sipper or occasional tea lover, this guide will steep you in everything you need to know about Japan's beloved roasted green tea.

Matcha Moon Organic Hojicha Powder from Japan

Matcha Moon Hojicha Powder Organic - Roasted Matcha Green Tea - Japanese Origin - Unsweetened, Low Caffeine - Uji Kyoto Japan - 100g Resealable Bag
  • PREMIUM ROASTED HOJICHA POWDER: Elevate your tea experience with Matcha Moon's Hojicha tea powder, crafted from organic green tea leaves harvested, roasted, ground, and packaged in small batches at our all-organic partner estate in Uji, Kyoto. This ensures unparalleled freshness, quality, and flavor that rivals ceremonial grade matcha.
  • COFFEE-LOVER's DELIGHT, BETTER FOR YOU: For coffee aficionados seeking an alternative, our finely ground organic hojicha powder boasts a rich, reddish-brown hue, smoky aroma, and robust flavor akin to freshly roasted coffee. Naturally low in caffeine, it's a perfect choice for late-day sipping, whether you're a matcha or coffee enthusiast.
  • 𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗬 "𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛𝗔-𝗦𝗧𝗬𝗟𝗘" 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: Ground to a silky, matcha-like fine powder, our organic hojicha effortlessly transforms into a delectable beverage. Simply add water, whisk, shake, or froth for hot or iced tea, lattes, smoothies, baking, and culinary creations. Embrace the versatility of hojicha with the ease of matcha preparation.
  • 𝗨𝗦𝗗𝗔 𝗖𝗘𝗥𝗧𝗜𝗙𝗜𝗘𝗗: Our Hojicha Japanese green tea is 100% USDA & JONA certified and tested for safety and purity, ensuring the highest quality pure matcha. Sugar-free, gluten-free, vegan, keto & paleo friendly & nothing added. The ideal beverage for every healthy lifestyle.
  • 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛𝗔 𝗠𝗢𝗢𝗡 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘: New to Hojicha? Begin your matcha journey with our 100g bag, backed by our no-questions-asked guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, contact us, and we'll make it right.

Health-conscious tea enthusiasts will appreciate Matcha Moon's Organic Hojicha Powder from Japan, a low-caffeine alternative that doesn't compromise on quality or taste. This USDA and JONA-certified powder comes from Uji, Kyoto, in a convenient 100g resealable bag.

You'll find this finely ground roasted green tea versatile and easy to prepare. Simply add water, whisk, shake, or froth for hot beverages, lattes, or smoothies. It's also perfect for baking. The earthy, smooth flavor profile offers less grassiness than traditional matcha, with subtle notes of balanced bitterness and sweetness. It's ideal for various dietary preferences, being sugar-free, gluten-free, vegan, keto, and paleo-friendly.

Best For: Health-conscious tea drinkers seeking a versatile, low-caffeine alternative to traditional matcha or coffee, especially those interested in organic, Japanese-sourced tea products.

Pros:

  • Premium organic certification (USDA & JONA) from Japan's renowned Uji region
  • Versatile preparation options for beverages and baking with fine, easy-mixing powder
  • Accommodates multiple dietary restrictions (vegan, keto, paleo, gluten-free)

Cons:

  • Static cling issues with packaging can make pouring difficult
  • Some customers report it lacks depth compared to other brands
  • Higher price point than non-organic tea alternatives

Yamamotoyama Houjicha Tea, 2.20 Pound

Yamamotoyama Houjicha Tea, 2.20 Pound
  • The package length of the product is 6 inches
  • The package width of the product is 5 inches
  • The package height of the product is 4 inches
  • The package weight of the product is 2.4 pounds

Tea enthusiasts seeking an authentic Japanese roasted green tea experience will find Yamamotoyama's 2.20-pound Houjicha an excellent choice. You'll enjoy its smoky, mellow flavor with minimal tannin aftertaste and rich aroma.

This high-quality tea brews easily at temperatures between 175°F and 190°F, requiring just 2 tablespoons per 96 ounces of water. At $26.95 for 2.2 pounds, it's a remarkable value for daily drinking. With low caffeine content, you can savor multiple cups throughout the day and into the evening. The tea's rich antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals make it both delicious and beneficial to your health.

Best For: Tea enthusiasts and daily drinkers seeking a high-quality, affordable Japanese roasted green tea with a smooth, mellow flavor that can be enjoyed throughout the day.

Pros:

  • Excellent value at $26.95 for a large 2.2-pound quantity
  • Low caffeine content makes it suitable for evening consumption
  • Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals with a smooth, pleasant taste

Cons:

  • May require experimentation to find optimal brewing strength
  • Large package size might be too much for occasional tea drinkers
  • Requires careful measurement to avoid bitter taste from using too much tea

Premium Japanese Hojicha Loose Leaf Green Tea (100g)

Premium Japanese Tea Loose Leaf - Organic Hojicha Tea Leaves from Shizuoka, Japan - Authentic Roasted Green Tea, JAS Certified, Low Caffeine Tea Leaves - Traditional Loose Tea for Hot & Cold Brew, 100g
  • ✅ Premium Japanese Tea Leaves: Experience authentic Shizuoka-grown organic loose leaf tea, traditionally roasted and carefully selected by our Japanese tea experts. Our premium loose tea leaves deliver a rich, smooth taste that outshines conventional green teas
  • ✅ Authentic Loose Leaf Tea Experts: As a US-based, Japanese American family tea business spanning three generations, we personally source and taste-test every batch of tea leaves. Our direct relationships with Shizuoka's finest tea farms ensure exceptional quality
  • ✅ Organic Japanese Loose Tea: Japan Agricultural Standard (JAS) Non-GMO verified, and lab-tested for purity. Our organic loose leaf tea undergoes rigorous quality control at our partner facility in Japan, ensuring you receive the finest tea leaves possible
  • ✅ Versatile Loose Tea Leaves: Perfect for hot brew (175°F, 1-2 minutes) delivering a rich, toasted flavor, or cold brew (8-12 hours) for a smooth, refreshing taste. Each 100g package of Japanese tea leaves yields approximately 50 servings
  • ✅ We stand behind our organic loose leaf tea with our 'Worry-Free Genki Guarantee.' If you're not completely satisfied with your Japanese tea experience, let us know and we'll make it right - because your happiness matters

Discerning sippers seeking an authentic Japanese tea experience will find their perfect match in this premium Hojicha from Shizuoka. This JAS-certified organic tea delivers a rich, nutty flavor profile without the grassy notes typical of regular green teas.

You'll get about 50 servings from the 100g package, and each 2g portion can be reused 2-3 times. For best results, brew at 175°F for 1-2 minutes, or cold brew for 8-12 hours. The tea comes from a trusted Japanese American family business that personally taste-tests every batch and maintains direct relationships with Shizuoka farms. If you're looking to enhance your cup, try adding oat milk for extra smoothness.

Best For: Tea enthusiasts seeking an authentic, low-caffeine Japanese green tea with a unique roasted flavor profile and those who appreciate organic, high-quality loose leaf teas.

Pros:

  • Premium organic quality from a trusted family business with direct farm relationships
  • Unique roasted, nutty flavor without grassy notes typical of green teas
  • Versatile brewing options (hot or cold) with leaves that can be reused 2-3 times

Cons:

  • Higher price point compared to conventional green teas
  • Requires specific brewing temperature (175°F) to avoid scorching
  • May not appeal to those who prefer traditional green tea flavors

Ocha & Co. Organic Hojicha Green Tea (100g)

Ocha & Co. Hojicha Tea – Japanese Organic Loose Leaf Green Tea – Roasted Green Tea Blend of Kukicha and Sencha – Low Caffeine Tea with a Sweet, Smoky Taste, 100g/3.5oz.
  • HOJICHA GREEN TEA: Our high grade organic Hojicha tea is a blend of roasted Sencha and Kukicha green teas. The organic loose leaf tea is naturally lower in caffeine than regular green teas.
  • SMOKY & SWEET: Mild and aromatic, this pan-roasted premium green tea blend has a smoky flavor, finished with a touch of sweetness, and has a golden yellow color in the cup.
  • JAPANESE ORGANIC TEA: This organic green tea is grown in an award-winning mountainous plantation in Shizuoka, where the perfect climatic conditions exist for organic Japanese tea cultivation.
  • VACUUM-SEALED FRESHNESS: Small batches of our Hojicha green loose leaf tea are ordered weekly to ensure a long shelf-life, and the organic tea has also been vacuum-sealed to retain optimal freshness.
  • OCHA & CO: Our tea growers work in harmony with one of the top blenders in the country to produce the finest organic green and black teas, so we can offer a variety of Japanese teas for different tastes, moods or occasions.

Connoisseurs seeking a premium Japanese tea experience will appreciate Ocha & Co.'s Organic Hojicha Green Tea. This blend of roasted Sencha and Kukicha from Shizuoka's award-winning plantation delivers a mild, smoky flavor with subtle sweetness and minimal bitterness.

You'll find ideal results using 2.5-3g per 100mL of water at 61-63°C, steeping for 45 seconds. Each set of leaves yields up to five flavorful brews. The vacuum-sealed 100g package preserves the tea's freshness and quality. With its low caffeine content and smooth mouthfeel, you can enjoy it throughout the day or transform it into a delicious hojicha latte that rivals café offerings.

Best For: Tea enthusiasts looking for a premium, low-caffeine Japanese green tea with a unique roasted flavor profile that can be enjoyed throughout the day or used in tea lattes.

Pros:

  • High-quality organic blend from an award-winning Shizuoka plantation with excellent flavor complexity
  • Versatile brewing options with ability to produce multiple infusions from the same leaves
  • Vacuum-sealed packaging ensures optimal freshness and extended shelf life

Cons:

  • Requires precise temperature control (61-63°C) for optimal brewing results
  • Higher price point compared to standard green teas
  • May need specialized equipment (thermometer, scale) for best brewing results

Organic Positively Tea Company, Hojicha, Green Tea, Loose Leaf, 16 Ounce

When seeking an affordable yet high-quality hojicha, you'll find Organic Positively Tea Company's 16-ounce loose leaf option strikes an ideal balance. Though not premium-grade, this tea delivers a smooth, toasty flavor with nutty undertones and a mild sweetness.

You'll get the best results by steeping 1.5 teaspoons in 350ml of 175°F water for two minutes. The flat-rolled leaves allow for multiple infusions without developing bitterness. To maintain freshness, transfer your tea to a glass canning jar with oxygen absorbers and store in a cool, dark place. While you might notice some twigs in the mix, the overall quality and golden-colored brew make this hojicha a solid choice for daily drinking.

Best For: Tea enthusiasts seeking an affordable, organic hojicha green tea suitable for daily drinking who appreciate a smooth, toasted flavor profile without breaking the bank.

Pros:

  • Excellent value for money with good quality-to-price ratio
  • Smooth, toasty flavor with nutty undertones and mild sweetness
  • Leaves can be steeped multiple times without becoming bitter

Cons:

  • Contains some twigs in the mix
  • Not premium-grade quality
  • Requires careful steeping time and temperature control to avoid bitterness

Tealyra Hojicha Roasted Green Tea (Japanese Loose Leaf)

Tealyra - Hojicha Roasted Green Tea - Japanese Loose Leaf Tea - High Antioxidants - Low Caffeine - 220g (8-ounce)
  • Originally created in Kyoto about a hundred years ago, hojicha is a unique Japanese tea.
  • It is roasted at high heat in a porcelain pot over charcoal, instead of steamed like most other Japanese teas.
  • Its mild flavor makes this brew incredibly complimentary, hojicha truly is a wonderful tea for anytime of the day.
  • Roasting the leaves creates a tea with a much lower caffeine content than green tea, making hojicha an incredibly popular after dinner tea, or relaxing evening tea. Its mild flavor makes this brew incredibly complimentary, hojicha truly is a wonderful tea for anytime of the day.

Tea enthusiasts seeking a gentler caffeine experience will find comfort in Tealyra's Hojicha Roasted Green Tea. This Japanese loose leaf tea undergoes a unique charcoal roasting process in porcelain pots, creating a smooth brew with toasted caramel notes and minimal bitterness.

You'll appreciate its versatility in brewing, whether you prefer boiling water or a lower temperature steep. While the tea offers a mild, earthy profile that's perfect for evening consumption, some may find the flavor too subtle. Made from the final harvest, including leaves and stems, the quality can vary between batches. Tealyra's competitive pricing and frequent sales make it an accessible choice for exploring this traditional Japanese tea.

Best For: Tea drinkers seeking a low-caffeine option with a gentle, roasted flavor profile, particularly those who enjoy evening tea or are sensitive to caffeine.

Pros:

  • Unique roasted flavor with pleasant caramel and nutty notes
  • Low caffeine content makes it suitable for evening consumption
  • Flexible brewing options with both high and low-temperature steeping methods

Cons:

  • Inconsistent quality between batches with some containing excess stems
  • Flavor may be too subtle for those preferring stronger teas
  • Some customers report higher caffeine content than expected

Hojicha Japanese Roasted Green Tea, Organic (150g)

Hojicha Tea, Roasted green Tea, Low caffeine, JAS Certified Organic, Japanese Tea, 150g Bag 【YAMASAN】
  • ✅HOJICHA ROASTED GREEN TEA - It is one kind of Japanese green tea. However, it is different from other types of green tea as we use traditional roasting methods to roast the tea leaves. When the tea leaves are roasted, the bitterness is removed and the Hojicha takes on a nice earthy, toasty scent and an attractive reddish-brown color.
  • ✅ORGANIC GREEN TEA - 100% JAS organic certified. We carefully select the finest quality organic green tea loose leaf from Uji, Kyoto, Japan. We have collaborated with local tea masters and we have a delightful tea plantation that has been protected by the tea farmers for over 350 years since the Genroku era.
  • ✅TRADITIONAL ROASTING METHOD - We carefully selected the tea leaves of Sencha, Bancha and Kukicha. The tea leaves are roasted over high heat to bring out the unique aroma. It is wonderful to drink after meals or in the evening and it can be safely consumed by babies, children and pregnant women.
  • ✅HOT BREW & COLD BREW - Two most common ways to enjoy flavorful Hojicha Roasted Green Tea are hot brewing and cold brewing.

For those seeking a gentle introduction to Japanese teas, this organic Hojicha from Uji, Kyoto offers the perfect gateway with its low caffeine content and mellow flavor profile.

You'll appreciate how this JAS-certified organic tea transforms through traditional roasting, developing distinct notes of toast, caramel, and cocoa. The 150g package gives you plenty to explore its versatility – brew it hot for rich warmth, cold for refreshment, or mix with milk for a creamy latte. Coming from a tea plantation that's been carefully tended for over 350 years, you're getting authentic quality backed by generations of expertise.

Best For: Tea enthusiasts who prefer low-caffeine options or those new to Japanese teas seeking a smooth, versatile brew with a unique roasted flavor profile.

Pros:

  • Certified organic tea from a historic Uji plantation with over 350 years of heritage
  • Versatile brewing options (hot, cold, or as a latte) with a distinctive toasty, caramel-like flavor
  • Low caffeine content makes it suitable for evening consumption or for those sensitive to caffeine

Cons:

  • May not appeal to those expecting traditional green tea taste
  • Premium pricing compared to non-organic alternatives
  • Limited availability due to specific regional sourcing from Uji, Kyoto

Factors to Consider When Choosing Hojicha Loose Leaf Teas

When you're looking for the perfect hojicha loose leaf tea, you'll want to check key aspects like the tea's Japanese origin, authenticity of source, and the specific roasting method used to create its signature toasted flavor. You should verify the organic certification if that's important to you, and note both the ideal brewing temperature and caffeine content level since hojicha's roasting process typically reduces its caffeine compared to regular green tea. These factors directly impact your tea's quality, taste, and overall drinking experience.

Origin and Tea Source

The origins of your hojicha loose leaf tea play an essential role in determining its quality and authenticity. When selecting hojicha, you'll want to focus on teas sourced from renowned Japanese regions like Uji and Shizuoka, where traditional cultivation practices guarantee superior quality.

Look for teas made from authentic Japanese tea leaves such as Sencha, Bancha, or Kukicha, as these varieties create distinct flavor profiles when roasted. You'll find the best results with producers who maintain direct relationships with tea farmers and use traditional roasting methods specific to their region. If you're health-conscious, choose hojicha from certified organic farms to ascertain your tea is free from pesticides and chemicals. These farms often maintain stricter quality control standards and sustainable farming practices that contribute to better-tasting tea.

Roasting Method Quality

Quality roasting methods distinguish exceptional hojicha from mediocre varieties, making it essential to understand how your tea has been processed. Look for hojicha that's been traditionally roasted in porcelain pots over charcoal, as this method creates the most authentic and complex flavor profile with pronounced earthy notes.

You'll want to check the tea's color – a rich reddish-brown hue indicates proper roasting technique. When examining loose leaf hojicha, notice if it's from the final harvest, which often produces cleaner-tasting tea with minimal dust due to careful processing. If you're sensitive to caffeine, particularly for evening drinking, select hojicha that's been roasted longer, as extended roasting naturally reduces caffeine content. The best hojicha balances toasty notes while minimizing bitterness through precise temperature control.

Organic Certification Status

Many discerning tea enthusiasts prioritize organic certification when selecting hojicha loose leaf teas. You'll want to look for USDA or JAS certifications, which guarantee that your tea meets strict organic farming standards. These certifications verify your hojicha is free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and artificial fertilizers.

When you choose certified organic hojicha, you're getting more than just a cleaner product. You'll support traditional farmers who maintain sustainable agriculture practices and preserve time-honored tea cultivation methods. Their commitment to soil health and biodiversity often results in hojicha with more complex flavor profiles. Additionally, organic certification means your tea has undergone rigorous testing for purity, giving you confidence that it's free from harmful contaminants. This makes organic hojicha a smart choice for both your health and the environment.

Brewing Temperature Requirements

Understanding proper brewing temperature is essential when selecting hojicha loose leaf teas, as it directly impacts your tea's flavor profile and overall enjoyment. You'll find that hojicha offers remarkable flexibility, with ideal brewing temperatures ranging from 175°F to 212°F.

If you're seeking bold, roasted notes, you'll want to brew your hojicha at higher temperatures between 190°F and 212°F. This method minimizes bitterness while maximizing the tea's signature toasted characteristics. For a gentler experience, opt for lower temperatures around 175°F to 180°F, which will produce a smoother, sweeter cup. Remember to pair your chosen temperature with appropriate steeping times, typically 1 to 2 minutes.

Before brewing, check your specific hojicha variety's recommended guidelines, as different types may require unique temperature adjustments for the best results.

Caffeine Content Level

When selecting hojicha loose leaf teas, you'll appreciate their naturally low caffeine content, which sets them apart from traditional green tea varieties. Through the unique roasting process, hojicha contains approximately 50% less caffeine than regular matcha or sencha, making it an excellent choice if you're sensitive to stimulants.

You can confidently enjoy hojicha throughout your day, even in the evening hours, without worrying about sleep disruptions. The tea's reduced caffeine levels make it particularly suitable after meals or during your nighttime routine. If you're looking to cut back on caffeine while still savoring a rich tea experience, you'll find hojicha to be an ideal alternative. Many tea drinkers report feeling calm and relaxed after sipping this roasted green tea, thanks to its gentle caffeine profile.

Flavor Profile Complexity

The rich complexity of hojicha's flavor profile stems from its unique roasting process, which transforms ordinary green tea into a deeply satisfying brew. You'll discover a delightful interplay of earthy, toasted notes complemented by subtle hints of caramel, cocoa, and nuts, setting it apart from traditional grassy green teas.

To fully experience hojicha's depth, pay attention to your brewing technique. Higher water temperatures will reveal bolder, toastier flavors, while lower temperatures expose its more delicate characteristics. The tea's composition also matters – different blends may contain varying ratios of leaves, stems, and twigs, each contributing distinct flavor elements to your cup. When selecting your hojicha, consider how these components work together to create your preferred balance of sweetness, toasted notes, and subtle bitterness.

Package Size Options

Selecting the right package size for hojicha loose leaf tea can greatly impact both your enjoyment and value. You'll find options ranging from 100g bags to generous 16-ounce portions, each designed to match different consumption patterns.

If you're new to hojicha, start with a smaller package to test your preferences before investing in larger quantities. For regular tea drinkers, larger packages offer better value per ounce and make economic sense, especially if you're sharing with family or friends. Look for resealable packaging regardless of size – it's vital for maintaining freshness throughout your tea-drinking experience.

Consider your drinking habits when choosing: occasional sippers might prefer smaller portions to guarantee maximum freshness, while daily drinkers can benefit from bulk purchases that provide long-term cost savings.

 

Konnichiwa! (Hello!) I'm Pat Tokuyama, a Japanese tofu cookbook author, who travels for music, food, and adventure. If you like Japanese tea, checkout some of the newestorganic japanese tea, matcha bowls and noren and more!

** Curious about the Plant Based Japanese Cooking Club? ** Learn more here!

 

Price Per Serving

Understanding price per serving helps you make informed decisions about hojicha investments. You'll want to calculate this by considering that each cup typically requires 1.5 to 2 grams of loose leaves. For instance, a 100g package priced at $26.95 yields about 50 servings, costing roughly $0.53 per cup.

If you're a frequent hojicha drinker, you'll find better value in larger packages. A 1-kilogram (2.20 pounds) package offers substantial savings through bulk pricing. Don't forget to factor in re-steeping potential – most hojicha leaves can be brewed multiple times, effectively lowering your cost per cup. When comparing different brands, you'll find this cost-per-serving analysis particularly helpful in choosing between organic and non-organic options, ensuring you get the best value for your preferred quality level.

Conclusion

Hojicha's unique roasted flavor and low caffeine content make it an excellent choice for your tea collection. You'll find options ranging from traditional loose leaf to convenient powder forms, all offering distinct roasting levels and taste profiles. Whether you're new to Japanese teas or a seasoned enthusiast, these seven selections provide quality choices. Consider factors like organic certification, origin, and quantity when selecting your perfect hojicha tea.

Last update on 2025-02-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Konnichiwa! (Hello!) I'm Pat Tokuyama, a Japanese tofu cookbook author, who travels for music, food, and adventure. If you like Japanese tea, checkout some of the newestorganic japanese tea, matcha bowls and noren and more!

** Curious about the Plant Based Japanese Cooking Club? ** Learn more here!

 

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