Sakura tea is a delicate drink made by steeping salted cherry blossoms in hot water or tea. This traditional beverage has been cherished since the Edo period as a symbol of good fortune. It is often served at weddings, celebrations, and special occasions, representing "vitality," "prosperity," and "new beginnings."

When hot water is poured over the blossoms, they gently unfurl, creating a visually captivating experience. Beyond its beauty, sakura tea is known for its calming effects, making it a perfect drink to enhance special moments.

Why is Sakura Tea Special?

1. Deep Connection with Japanese Culture
   Cherry blossoms symbolize Japan’s changing seasons and transient beauty. Drinking sakura tea allows you to experience spring not only visually but also through taste.
   
   
2. The Unique "Spring Aroma"
   Unlike other teas, sakura tea carries a subtle, naturally sweet floral scent that comes from the salted blossoms and leaves.
   
   
3. Pure, Natural Fragrance
   High-quality sakura tea does not use artificial flavoring; instead, it relies on carefully selected cherry blossoms to provide an authentic floral aroma.
   
   

Types of Sakura Tea and How to Choose

● Salted Sakura Blossom Tea
Made from salted double-flowered cherry blossoms, this tea creates a beautiful visual as the petals bloom in hot water. Perfect for celebrations and elegant tea moments.

● Sakura Leaf-Infused Tea
A blend of dried sakura leaves with green or black tea, offering a scent reminiscent of sakura mochi. Pairs well with sweets and is ideal for an after-meal refreshment.

● Sakura Sencha
A blend of sencha with salted sakura blossoms or petals, combining the rich umami of Japanese green tea with delicate floral notes. Recommended for green tea lovers and those who appreciate subtle floral flavors.

How to Brew the Perfect Sakura Tea

Brewing Tips (Temperature & Steeping Time)

Salted Sakura Blossom Tea & Sakura Sencha

1. 1. Rinse the salted sakura blossoms lightly to remove excess salt (important!)
      
   2. Place the blossoms in a teacup or teapot and pour hot water (about 80°C/176°F) over them.
      
   3. Once the petals have fully opened, your tea is ready. The sakura blossoms are edibles 🌸

Flavored Sakura Tea

1. 1. Steep in hot water (85–90°C/185–194°F) for 1-2 minutes.
      
   2. Allow the floral scent to infuse gently into the tea for a well-balanced taste.

Sakura Tea Variations

Sakura Latte

1. 1. Rinse the salted sakura blossoms and remove excess salt.
      
   2. Heat milk (or a milk alternative) over medium heat.
      
   3. Add the salted blossoms and simmer on low heat for 1–2 minutes to extract the floral aroma.
      
   4. Pour into a cup and let the petals float gracefully.
      
   5. Add honey or syrup for a touch of sweetness.

Sakura Milk Tea

1. 1. Place sakura leaf-infused tea or sakura sencha in a teapot.
   2. Use hot water (85–90°C/185–194°F) and steep using 1.5 times the usual amount of tea leaves, or reduce the water volume for a stronger brew.
   3. Combine the strong tea with warm milk, stirring well to blend the flavors.
   4. Add honey or syrup for extra sweetness.

Best Pairings: Enjoying Sakura Tea with Snacks

● Salted Sakura Blossom Tea × White Chocolate
The gentle saltiness of sakura enhances the sweetness of white chocolate, creating a delightful contrast.

● Sakura Leaf-Infused Tea × Plain Biscuits
The floral aroma of sakura blends harmoniously with simple, subtly sweet biscuits.

● Sakura Sencha × Shortbread
The crisp texture and mild sweetness of shortbread complement the refreshing green tea flavor of sakura sencha.

Health Benefits of Sakura Tea

● Relaxation & Stress Relief
Sakura leaves and blossoms contain coumarin, a compound known for its calming effects. This natural aroma helps reduce stress and promote relaxation.

● Antioxidant & Beauty Benefits
Sakura flowers are believed to help prevent glycation, a process that accelerates skin aging and vascular stiffness. Their antioxidant properties contribute to anti-aging effects.

Where to Find Authentic Sakura Tea

For a truly special cup of sakura tea, we recommend "Kyogenmaicha Agaruiru" (京玄米茶 上ル入ル). This Kyoto-based tea shop blends carefully selected double-flowered cherry blossoms from Odawara, Kanagawa with premium sencha from Uji, Kyoto, creating a perfectly balanced and aromatic tea.

Premium Ingredients

● Salted Sakura Blossoms: Hand-picked and meticulously salted, these blossoms bloom beautifully in hot water, releasing an elegant aroma.

● Genmaicha: Made with Uji sencha and binchotan-charcoal-roasted rice, this tea offers a refreshing, smooth taste with a pleasant roasted aroma.

As a seasonal limited-edition product, this sakura tea is only available during spring. It’s perfect for creating special tea moments or gifting to loved ones.

For anyone living outside Japan, Hola Japon offers worldwide shipping so you can enjoy authentic sakura tea wherever you are. Don’t miss the chance to experience the taste of Japan’s spring in a cup with your loved ones!