Japanese Green Tea – Hatsutsumi Early Harvest Yame Sencha (100g)

An Early Harvest Sencha with Refined Umami

Hatsutsumi is an early harvest sencha produced by Hoshino Seichaen in the mountainous tea-growing region of Yame, Fukuoka.

Made primarily from carefully selected early-budding cultivars, including Saemidori and Tsuyuhikari, Hatsutsumi is harvested around mid-April—earlier than many traditional sencha teas.

It offers refined umami and sweetness, a gentle touch of astringency, and the fresh aroma unique to young spring buds. Its clean, pleasant finish makes it suitable for everyday enjoyment while remaining elegant enough to serve to guests.

Brewed carefully at a lower temperature, Hatsutsumi produces a bright green infusion with a smooth and balanced flavor.

Product Details

• Early harvest sencha from Yame, Fukuoka
• Harvested around mid-April
• Primarily made with Saemidori and Tsuyuhikari cultivars
• Refined umami and sweetness
• Gentle astringency
• Fresh aroma of young spring tea buds
• Clean and pleasant finish
• Suitable for everyday enjoyment and entertaining guests
• Net weight: 100g (3.53 oz)
• Ingredients: 100% green tea
• Product of Japan
• Manufactured and packed by Hoshino Seichaen Co., Ltd.

Official Product Information

• Japanese product name: 心潤す、お茶 福岡八女茶 福岡の八女茶「はつつみ」煎茶 謹製
  
• Official English package name: Sencha “Hatsutsumi”
  
• Manufacturer: Hoshino Seichaen Co., Ltd.
• Manufacturer address: 8136-1 Hoshinomura, Yame, Fukuoka 834-0201, Japan

Brewing Instructions

Traditional Preparation — Manufacturer’s Recommendation

For 2–3 small Japanese teacups

• Tea: 6g
• Water: 6 fl oz (180ml)
• Water temperature: 158°F (70°C)
• Steeping time: Approximately 45 seconds

1. Bring fresh water to a full boil.
2. Pour the water into the serving cups, filling each approximately 80% full. This measures the appropriate amount of water and allows it to cool to approximately 158°F (70°C).
3. Place approximately 6g—about one tablespoon—of tea leaves in a teapot.
4. Pour the cooled water into the teapot.
5. Steep for approximately 45 seconds.
6. Pour a little tea into each cup in rotation to distribute the flavor evenly.
7. Continue pouring until the teapot is completely empty.

For the second infusion, the leaves will release their flavor more quickly. Add hot water and begin pouring after a shorter steep.

For the best flavor: Use fresh, good-quality water.

Luna Matcha tip: Filtered or soft water works especially well for Japanese green tea.

For a Larger Cup — Luna Matcha Recommendation

For a 12 fl oz (355ml) cup, begin with approximately 7–9g of tea rather than directly doubling the traditional ratio.

Use water at approximately 158°F (70°C) and begin with a steeping time of 45–75 seconds. Adjust the amount of tea or steeping time according to your preferred strength.

Using 12g—the direct proportional equivalent of the traditional preparation—will produce a significantly stronger cup with more caffeine.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from heat, moisture, light, and strong odors.

Because the original pouch is not resealable, transfer the tea to an airtight container or seal the opened pouch securely after opening.