If you’ve been to Japan in the summer, chances are you’ve seen iced drinks everywhere—from convenience stores to trendy cafés. But one beverage that has quietly and consistently remained a favorite is the Hojicha Latte.
This roasted green tea latte is having another big moment in Japan this summer, and here’s why it continues to charm locals and tourists alike.
What is Hojicha Latte?
Hojicha is a type of Japanese green tea that’s roasted over charcoal, giving it a distinctive smoky aroma and reddish-brown color. Unlike matcha or sencha, hojicha has low caffeine and a mild, nutty flavor.
When blended with milk—hot or iced—it becomes a creamy, comforting drink that’s perfect for any season, but especially refreshing as a cold summer treat.
Why It’s Trending Again in 2025
- Health-conscious and relaxing: With less caffeine than other teas, hojicha is easier on the body and known for its calming effects—ideal for Japan’s fast-paced lifestyle.
- Instagrammable and aesthetic: The earthy tones and minimalist look of a hojicha latte appeal to the aesthetics-driven social media generation.
- Café culture explosion: Specialty tea shops like Satén Japanese Tea in Tokyo, and mainstream chains like Starbucks Japan, are bringing seasonal hojicha latte variations every summer.
- Global attention: With “hojicha” becoming a buzzword on TikTok and food blogs abroad, more tourists in Japan are now actively seeking it out during their stay.
Where to Try It
If you’re visiting Japan this summer, look for cafés offering iced or whipped hojicha lattes. Many even top it with kinako (roasted soybean flour) or brown sugar syrup for extra depth.
Popular spots include:
- Satén Japanese Tea (Tokyo) – A modern tea café focusing on single-origin hojicha.
- Local Starbucks stores – Limited-edition hojicha frappuccinos are often released during summer.
- Lawson convenience stores – Yes, even at a konbini! Lawson’s MACHI cafe launched an Iced Hojicha Latte on April 8, 2025 for around ¥260 (about $2‑3). Made with carefully roasted hojicha and fresh milk, it’s served via a simple self-serve method at selected branches nationwide.
Not Just a Drink—It’s a Cultural Experience
Enjoying a hojicha latte in Japan is more than sipping tea—it’s about slowing down, embracing seasonal flavors, and connecting with Japanese tea traditions in a modern way. It’s a symbol of how Japan blends the old with the new, tradition with trend.
Final Thoughts
While matcha has had its global moment, hojicha is quietly rising as Japan’s next iconic tea export. If you’re in Japan—or have a Japanese café nearby—this summer is the perfect time to give hojicha latte a try. Its comforting flavor, health benefits, and cultural roots make it much more than just a trendy drink.
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