About Tea in Wakayama Prefecture
Wakayama Prefecture enjoys a warm, rainy climate. While facing the Pacific Ocean, it is a region rich in nature, with mountains and forests centered around the Kii Mountains covering approximately 80% of its land area.
Tea produced here is collectively known as “Kishu Tea,” with regional brands such as “Irokawa Tea” from Nachikatsuura, “Kawazoe Tea” from Shirahama, and “Otonashi Tea” from Hongu also well-known. Influenced by significant day-night temperature variations and the mist that settles in the mountain valleys, the region produces aromatic standard steamed sencha. Black tea and hojicha are also popular. Furthermore, the culture of “chagayu” (tea porridge) made with bancha tea remains a part of daily life.