Hello everyone, I'm Keko, one of the online staff members.
September is such a beautiful month of transition, where you can really start to feel the shift in seasons. The lingering warmth of summer gradually gives way to the refreshing breezes of early autumn.
That said, here in Uji, Kyoto, the heat is still going strong! ☀️
Honestly, if it weren’t for flipping the calendar to September, it would be hard to believe summer is ending. When I step outside, the sun is still intense, and I find myself reaching for my parasol and sunscreen like it's midsummer.
Normally by this time of year, I would notice signs of autumn—like the beautiful, scaly clouds in the sky, shorter days, or dragonflies flying gracefully in the breeze—but it seems this year, fall is taking its time to arrive.
Still, even in the lingering heat, there’s something about the slow approach of autumn that makes the moments with a cup of tea all the more enjoyable.
One of my favorite teas to enjoy during September is Hojicha, a roasted green tea that perfectly matches the cooler weather.
Hojicha has a distinct toasty flavor, which comes from the unique process of roasting the tea leaves at a high temperature.
A wonderful aspect of Hojicha is its lower caffeine content compared to other types of green tea.
This makes it an ideal choice for any time of the day, whether you're looking for a gentle cup of tea to accompany your morning or a relaxing drink to enjoy in the late afternoon.
Its calming taste is also perfect after a meal, offering a sense of balance and warmth.
Personally, I find it to be an ideal tea for unwinding, especially during these cooler September evenings.
I hope you’ll consider trying Hōjicha this autumn, and perhaps it will bring you the same sense of comfort and serenity that it does for me.