As Japan’s summers get hotter, cold brew tea—mizudashi-cha—is emerging as the drink of choice for those who want to cool down sustainably and healthily. Unlike sugary soft drinks or caffeinated iced coffees, this traditional drink offers a smooth, refreshing taste with a modern eco-conscious twist.
🌟 What is Cold Brew Tea?
Cold brew tea is prepared by steeping tea leaves in cold water for several hours, extracting delicate flavors without the bitterness or strong caffeine punch of hot-brewed teas. The result is a clean, mellow drink perfect for summer hydration.
This method works especially well with Japanese green teas like sencha or hojicha, and it’s gaining popularity among younger generations seeking mindful, sustainable lifestyles.
📍 Where to Enjoy Cold Brew Tea in Japan
1. Major Brands Bringing Cold Brew to Daily Life
Several Japanese tea companies now offer convenient ways to enjoy cold brew tea:
- Ito En: Their Oi Ocha Cold Brew series includes ready-to-drink bottled green teas and tea bags designed for water bottles.
- Lupicia: Known for premium loose leaf teas, Lupicia offers cold brew-friendly blends and water bottle-sized tea bags.
- Kusmi Tea Japan and other import brands are also offering herbal and fruit blends perfect for cold brewing.
2. Convenience Stores and Supermarkets
Across Japan, convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart stock a growing range of bottled cold brew teas, catering to commuters and tourists looking for a quick, healthy refreshment.
🌍 Sustainability Meets Tradition
Cold brew tea culture fits seamlessly with Japan’s growing sustainability mindset. It encourages the use of reusable bottles to reduce single-use plastics, supports local tea farmers by promoting seasonal, single-origin leaves, and requires no electricity for heating, reducing energy consumption.
On social media, hashtags like #ColdBrewTea, #水出し茶, and #MyBottleLife are inspiring users to showcase their eco-friendly tea habits.
🍵 Why You Should Try It
- Refreshing and naturally hydrating
- Low in caffeine and bitterness
- Complements a sustainable lifestyle
- Simple to make at home or on the go
- Perfect for Instagram-worthy summer moments
✨ Final Thoughts
Cold brew tea is more than a summer drink—it’s a reflection of modern Japan’s balance between tradition and sustainability. Whether you’re picking up a bottle from a convenience store or brewing your own at home, this trend invites you to slow down and savor the subtle flavors of Japanese tea culture.
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