- What is Hojicha exactly?
- How is Hojicha different from sencha or matcha?
- The Process of How Hojicha is made
- How is Hojicha different from Chinese roasted tea?
- How to Brew Hojicha for the Best Flavor
- New Ways to Enjoy Traditional Hojicha
- Hojicha Recipe Videos
- Hojicha Oat Milk Latte
- Hojicha Syrup
- Hojicha Banana Cake
- Gluten-Free Hojicha Cookies
- Hojicha Brownie
- Hojicha Cookie Dough
- Hojicha Pumpkin Bread
- Hojicha Hanabira Mochi
- How to Separate Good Hojicha From the Bad Hojicha
- How to Find Good Hojicha No Matter Where You Live
- Hojicha and Health Benefit
- Hojicha FAQs
- Fun Hojicha Infographics
- Buy Premium Hojicha Online (USA)
What is Hojicha exactly?
Japanese Hojicha Tea offers many benefits to those who drink it. It is made from green tea leaves or stems that originate from sencha Japanese green tea.
Hojicha Tea, unlike similar but different green teas, is reddish-brown in color. When the leaves are roasted, the bitterness is removed, and the Hojicha takes on a nice earthy scent and an attractive reddish-brown color.
There are varying grades of green tea leaves. Lower-grade leaves are typically used for making Hojicha while higher-grade leaves are most suitable for other applications.
Using the right leaves for the job will ensure that the optimum taste is achieved for the most enjoyable and palatable experience.
Hojicha is unique not only because of its roasting process but also due to its cultural significance in Japan. Traditionally served after meals or during the evening, Hojicha is appreciated for its soothing qualities and low acidity, making it gentle on the stomach. It has become a staple in Japanese households, especially for children and the elderly, thanks to its low caffeine content. In recent years, Hojicha has also gained global attention for its versatility—not only as a warm beverage but also as a key ingredient in desserts, ice creams, and even savory dishes due to its mellow, nutty profile.
How is Hojicha different from sencha or matcha?
The main difference between sencha and matcha is the color. Although both are considered Japanese green teas, matcha is bright green in color. The lower the grade of matcha, the less vibrant the color. Click here to see the in-depth difference between sencha and matcha.
Hojicha, on the other hand, is more of a reddish-brown in color. (see below image difference between Hojicha and Sencha) The hue will vary depending on whether it came from the Sencha, Bancha, or Kukicha green tea.
Matcha will have a more vegetal aroma while Hojicha, in its roasted green tea form, will have more of an earthy umami aroma to it. Matcha is quite bitter while Hojicha has a sweeter and even smokey flavor to it.
Hojicha has a much lower caffeine content than matcha at about 0.13 g of caffeine for every 100 g while matcha is upwards of about 3.2 g of caffeine for every 100 g.
Hojicha tea leaves are steamed before being dried while matcha is made by grinding the dried leaves into a very fine powder. Hojicha can also be ground into a fine powder, but it is typically in loose tea form.
Another key difference lies in how each tea is traditionally consumed and its cultural associations. Matcha is often used in Japanese tea ceremonies, requiring special tools like a bamboo whisk and bowl, and demands careful preparation to achieve the right froth and balance. Sencha is the most commonly consumed everyday green tea in Japan, typically steeped in hot water and enjoyed during meals.
Hojicha, by contrast, is more casual and accessible—it's commonly served to children, the elderly, or as an evening tea due to its minimal caffeine. This broad appeal, combined with its mellow flavor, makes Hojicha an increasingly popular alternative for those seeking the health benefits of green tea without the intensity or bitterness of matcha and sencha.
Hojicha Tea (Left), Sencha Tea (Right)
The Process of How Hojicha is made
Hojicha is made from Bancha tea leaves, and sometimes it may be sourced from Kukicha twigs or Sencha leaves. It is grown in Japan and is roasted at very high temperatures. This technique is why Hojicha has a reddish-brown color as well as a nice, umami flavor and aroma.
The roasting process is typically carried out in a porcelain pot over charcoal, a method that not only alters the tea’s color and flavor but also significantly reduces its caffeine and tannin content. This makes Hojicha easier on the stomach and suitable for late-night consumption.
The precise temperature and duration of the roasting are carefully controlled by artisans to avoid burning the leaves and to bring out the desired smoky, caramel-like notes. Depending on the region and producer, slight variations in the roasting method can result in subtle differences in flavor, making each batch of Hojicha unique in character and depth.
How is Hojicha different from Chinese roasted tea?
There are a number of differences between Chinese roasted tea and Hojicha tea. Chinese roasted teas are often prepared in such a way that the oxidation process is stopped because they are traditionally heated in woks.
However, Hojicha is typically steamed to stop the oxidization process first and then roasted. Because of this careful preparation, Hojicha has little to no bitterness as well as low caffeine content. (Oftentimes, hojicha is made with bancha which has less caffeine; this also helps with having low caffeine)
Hojicha also is often made with the Yabukita cultivar which is Japanese whereas Chinese tea uses another type of cultivar; this difference also contributes to the differences, in the end-resulting tea.
Another notable difference lies in the flavor profiles and cultural context of the teas. Chinese roasted teas, such as Wuyi oolong or Da Hong Pao, tend to have a stronger, more mineral-rich and sometimes floral or fruity taste due to their semi-oxidized nature and the rocky terroir where they are grown.
Hojicha, on the other hand, leans toward a softer, toastier flavor with nutty and smoky undertones, reflecting Japan’s emphasis on subtlety and balance in taste. Moreover, Chinese roasted teas are often consumed during formal tea tastings or paired with rich meals, while Hojicha is more often enjoyed casually, as a comforting and calming drink at any time of day.
Click here to learn more about Chinese tea vs Japanese tea.
How to Brew Hojicha for the Best Flavor
In order to enjoy the highest level of taste and aroma, there is a certain way that Hojicha should be prepared. When properly prepared, this tea will offer not only all of the benefits that it has to offer, but it will taste and even look as appealing as possible to the drinker.
For starters, Hojicha should be prepared in the proper teapot. It should have an attached mesh inside in order to keep leaves from escaping into the teacup yet allow them to move freely for maximum flavor and evenness in strength. (Click here for an example teapot that works well to brew hojicha and make the taste better)
Temperature is also very important and should be allowed to cool to the ideal temperature after being brought to a full boil. It is also important to use good, filtered water for maximum smoothness and flavor. (Click here to learn more about Japanese green tea and water)
It is vital to always adjust the temperature according to the grade of the tea. The higher the grade, the lower the temperature should be. Premium Hojicha should be brewed at around 190 degrees Fahrenheit or 90 degrees Celsius.
You should also adjust how many leaves you brew to the size of the cup that you will be using. If you are serving your tea in a small cup, you will want to use fewer leaves unless you want to achieve a very strong brew.
Since Hojicha is considered a delicate tea, it is often served in small Japanese cups, but it can also be enjoyed in your favorite mug as well. Drinking tea is all about the enjoyment of the drinker.
You should store your Hojicha in an air-tight bag and keep it in the refrigerator to preserve its flavor for as long as possible. (Click here to learn more about how to store tea)
For those who prefer convenience, Hojicha can also be brewed using modern tools like tea infusers or even in single-serve tea bags, though loose-leaf preparation is generally preferred for a richer and more nuanced taste. Re-steeping is also possible—especially with higher-quality Hojicha—offering a lighter, more delicate flavor in the second infusion.
Additionally, some enthusiasts experiment by blending Hojicha with spices like cinnamon or vanilla for a seasonal twist, or even adding a splash of milk to create a creamy, comforting Hojicha latte. These variations make the tea not only enjoyable but also adaptable to individual preferences and moods.
New Ways to Enjoy Traditional Hojicha
Hojicha can be prepared in a number of different ways. It is traditionally prepared as tea by steaming the leaves in hot water for about one minute. It can also be enjoyed chilled. (Here is how you can cold brew hojicha – this instruction is for sencha but works well for hojicha.)
There is even a Hojicha powder that can be used to make a tea similar to matcha. (If you got loose-leaf hojicha, you could use a spice grinder to powder them.) It can even be made into a latte type with milk. No matter how you enjoy it, you will still get to enjoy the many benefits that Hojicha has to offer.
In recent years, Hojicha has found its way into an exciting array of culinary applications beyond the teacup. Chefs and home bakers alike use Hojicha powder to infuse a smoky depth into desserts such as cookies, chiffon cakes, puddings, and even gelato. Its unique flavor pairs especially well with creamy bases, making it a popular ingredient in panna cotta and cheesecake recipes. Mixologists have also embraced Hojicha in cocktail creations, blending it with spirits like whiskey or gin for a rich, earthy twist. Whether you prefer it steeped, frothed, or baked into your favorite treat, Hojicha’s versatility continues to inspire new and delicious possibilities.
We made cool videos on various hojicha Recipes. Please check them out!
We made cool videos on various hojicha Recipes. Please check them out!
Click here to see the full recipe of Hojicha Oat Milk
Click here to see the full recipe of Hojicha Syrup
Click here to see the full recipe of Hojicha Banana Cake
Click here to see the full recipe of Hojicha Cookies
Click here to see the full recipeof Hojicha Brownie
Click here to see the full recipe of Hojicha Cookie Dough Bites
Click here to see the full recipe of Hojicha Pumpkin Bread
Click here to see the full recipe of Hojicha Hanabira Mochi
Click to Subscribe to my YouTube Channel to watch more Hojicha Video Recipes
How to Separate Good Hojicha From the Bad Hojicha
There are a number of ways to spot good, high-quality Hojicha. When shopping for high-quality Hojicha, you are going to want to pay attention to the color and aroma of the Hojicha.
You also want to find out where the leaves were grown and who has processed the tea. You will also want to get a little info on who is selling the tea. You will want to know if the seller and manufacturer are reputable and trusted, which will indicate the quality of the tea.
You should taste it as well if possible. You are looking for a deep yet bright brown hue and should never be black, which indicates that the leaves have been burnt in the roasting process. The aroma should be nice and earthy, and the leaves should have a nice, earthy flavor.
Texture and freshness also play a crucial role in identifying quality Hojicha. The leaves or stems should feel dry but not overly brittle, indicating they were properly roasted and stored. If purchasing Hojicha powder, check for a fine, even consistency without clumps or dampness, which can suggest exposure to moisture. Packaging is another key factor—look for products sealed in airtight, light-blocking materials, as exposure to air and light can degrade flavor and aroma. Some premium sellers may include harvest dates or roasting dates on the packaging, which helps ensure you’re getting a fresher, more flavorful product.
How to Find Good Hojicha No Matter Where You Live
When shopping for Hojicha tea, the best way is to be able to feel, smell, and touch the leaves for yourself. Shopping for tea is a very involves and intimate process and is also enjoyable for all of the senses.
If it is simply not possible to shop for your Hojicha tea in person, there are many reputable tea sellers online that you can purchase it from. Be sure to read the reviews of the other customers and to pay attention to the fine details such as how the leaves were prepared as well as where the leaves were grown.
Brand reputation is important, and online tea stores should provide pictures of their product so that you can shop with your eyes.
Tea shops, tearooms, supermarkets, and health food stores are all good sources for your Hojicha tea supply.
If you are new to the process of purchasing Hojicha, you will mostly rely on the color and aroma of the tea.
For international shoppers, it's also a good idea to look for Hojicha certified organic or labelled with origin-specific details such as "Kyoto-grown" or “Uji region,” both known for producing high-quality green teas in Japan. Many speciality tea retailers now offer sample-size packs, allowing you to try small portions before committing to a larger purchase. Additionally, consider joining tea forums or online communities where enthusiasts share trusted sources, honest reviews, and brewing tips. These networks can be invaluable in helping you discover hidden gems and avoid low-quality, mass-produced options that may lack the authentic Hojicha experience.
Hojicha and Health Benefit
There are many benefits to drinking Hojicha tea. Hojicha Tea is very high in antioxidants which help to flush out unwanted and even harmful free radicals from the body. It acts as a natural cleansing and detoxifying agent.
Antioxidants are also important for the body because they help to keep the skin looking young as they help to reduce the signs of aging.
It also helps to release stress. Sitting down and enjoying a nice, warm cup of tea is relaxing on its own, but Hojicha tea also contains L-Theanine, which is an amino acid that helps to boost mental capacity. It also reduces stress because it helps to lower blood pressure and cortisol levels.
When the body is relaxed, it reacts by becoming balanced and calmer. The wonderful scent of a cup of Hojicha tea also helps to ease the mind as it has a nice, soothing aroma.
It also helps to reduce cholesterol thanks to the high levels of catechins that are present in green tea. When cholesterol levels are lower, inflammation is reduced, and the risk of heart disease also declines. Hojicha is also one of the best green tea for weight loss.
For those who are sensitive to caffeine, Hojicha is a great alternative to a cup of Joe or an energy drink since it will boost energy levels naturally and without the jitters.
One cup of Hojicha contains only about 7.7 mg of caffeine whole a cup of coffee typically contains about 95 mg of caffeine. It is a nice little boost without causing any negative side effects.
Hojicha tea has been brewed and enjoyed for centuries and is gaining popularity all over the world thanks to our modern civilization where you can shop online from virtually anywhere in the world.
Whether you are thinking of trying it for the first time or you are already a fan, Hojicha is a popular choice for many due to its versatility and therapeutic benefits.
The key to enjoying this unique tea is to prepare it with care and to take the time to really appreciate its origin as well as the process in which it came to be. Drinking tea is an experience that is meant to be enjoyed and savored in a world that is often rushed and chaotic.
Emerging research also suggests that the polyphenols and flavonoids found in Hojicha may support immune function and help regulate blood sugar levels. These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can contribute to overall immune resilience. Additionally, the low acidity of Hojicha makes it gentle on the digestive system, making it a suitable option for those with acid sensitivity or gastrointestinal concerns. Because it’s naturally soothing, Hojicha is often recommended as a post-meal digestive aid or a calming nighttime ritual for those seeking relaxation without compromising sleep quality.
Hojicha FAQs
Fun Hojicha Infographics
We created some infographics about hojicha. Here they are!
These infographics are from our Green Tea Infographic Board on Pinterest. Follow us on Pinterest to see more infographics like this!
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About the author
Kei Nishida
Author, CEO Dream of Japan
Certification: PMP, BS in Computer Science
Education: Western Washington University
Kei Nishida is a passionate Japanese green tea connoisseur, writer, and the founder and CEO of Japanese Green Tea Co., a Dream of Japan Company.
Driven by a deep desire to share the rich flavors of his homeland, he established the only company that sources premium tea grown in nutrient-rich sugarcane soil—earning multiple Global Tea Champion awards.
Expanding his mission of introducing Japan’s finest to the world, Kei pioneered the launch of the first-ever Sumiyaki charcoal-roasted coffee through Japanese Coffee Co. He also brought the artistry of traditional Japanese craftsmanship to the global market by making katana-style handmade knives—crafted by a renowned katana maker—available outside Japan for the first time through Japanese Knife Co.
Kei’s journey continues as he uncovers and shares Japan’s hidden treasures with the world.
Learn more about Kei
