A Taste of Early Summer: Discovering Shincha in Singapore
- tomo-japanese
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
In Japan, May is the season for shincha ― the first tea harvest of the year.
The name means “new tea,” and it refers to the young tea leaves picked in early spring.
Especially around the traditional date called Hachijuhachiya (the 88th day after the start of spring), tea farmers pick the freshest, most tender leaves.
This tea is said to bring good health for the rest of the year, and it’s considered something very special.🫖
What makes shincha unique is its fresh, light flavour and gentle sweetness. It’s made from the very first harvest, also called ichibancha (“first tea”), and is full of nutrients.
Regions like Shizuoka, Uji in Kyoto, and Kagoshima are well-known for producing excellent shincha, each with its own flavour and personality.🌱
Although green tea, oolong, and black tea come from the same plant, the difference lies in how they’re processed.
🟩Green tea (like shincha) is unfermented.
🟫Oolong tea is partially fermented.
⬛️Black tea is fully fermented.
Because shincha is steamed right after harvest to stop fermentation, it keeps its bright green colour and refreshing taste.
To enjoy it fully, it’s best to brew it with slightly cooled water ― around 70–80°C ― to avoid bitterness and bring out its natural sweetness.
Recently, I visited a beautiful Japanese-style café called Hvala. With locations in Orchard and CHIJMES, it offers a peaceful space to enjoy high-quality tea and desserts.
That day, I ordered a matcha. It was vibrant green, smooth, slightly bitter but very refreshing. Just one sip brought a sense of calm like I’d stepped into a quiet afternoon in Japan.😊
While browsing the menu, I noticed they also offered shincha! It reminded me that May is the perfect time to enjoy the freshest Japanese tea, even far from home.
Shincha is more than just a drink. It’s a way to enjoy the season itself. Whether you’re in Japan or abroad, taking a moment to enjoy a fresh cup of tea is a lovely way to slow down and reconnect.🌿
So next time you need a break, why not try a cup of Japanese tea ― and taste a little bit of early summer? 🍵✨
Thank you
Taichi
Tomo Japanese Language School
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