Kawane Sencha (Tokuyama)
Grown in the mountainous region of Kawane, Shizuoka, this premium sencha comes from Tokuyama, a secluded valley along the Ōi River. Cultivated from the Yabukita cultivar without pesticides or fertilizers, the tea plants grow naturally, developing rich polyphenols that enhance its long-lasting aftertaste and delicate floral-like aroma. The cool climate, frequent mountain mist, and well-drained slopes create ideal conditions for a refined and pure expression of Kawane’s terroir.
Kawane Tea: A Unique Expression of Shizuoka’s Mountainous Terrain
Kawane Tea (川根茶) is cultivated in the mountainous regions along the middle to upper reaches of the Ōi River (大井川) in Shizuoka Prefecture. Originating from the Southern Alps (南アルプス), the Ōi River flows through Shizuoka City before reaching Suruga Bay. The river basin is defined by steep valleys and rugged mountains, creating a distinct terroir that shapes the character of Kawane Tea.
The primary production area spans Kawanehon Town (川根本町) and the Kawane district of Shimada City (島田市), following the course of the Ōi River. Tea fields are spread across elevations ranging from approximately 200 to 800 meters, where the cool climate, abundant mountain mist, and slower leaf growth contribute to the tea’s refined taste and complexity.
Tokuyama: A Hidden Gem in Kawane’s Tea-Producing Region
This particular tea comes from Tokuyama (徳山), a remote area deeper within Kawane. Tokuyama is a small village situated in the northern part of Kawanehon Town, nestled in a valley along the Ōi River at an elevation of 200 to 300 meters. Compared to other parts of Kawane, this is a relatively lower altitude, lying further north of central Kawanehon Town in Senzu (千頭). The tea fields here are scattered along the valleys formed by tributaries of the Ōi River.
Despite being in the mountains, Tokuyama experiences more moderate temperature variations between day and night compared to higher-altitude regions. However, the frequent presence of fog and well-drained slopes create ideal growing conditions, enhancing the quality of the tea leaves by intensifying their aroma and flavor profile.
Naturally Grown Sencha: Pesticide-Free and Fertilizer-Free Cultivation
This Kawane Sencha is crafted from the Yabukita cultivar, harvested from tea gardens that have been left in a natural state for many years, cultivated without the use of pesticides or fertilizers. Since no fertilizers are applied, the tea plants grow more slowly, leading to leaves that are naturally rich in polyphenols. This slow growth results in a tea with an exceptionally long-lasting aftertaste, a clean and refreshing character, and a delicate floral-like aroma—offering a pure expression of Kawane’s natural environment.