"Batabata -cha" (also known as "tatecha" or "furicha") is one of the local traditional banchas of Japan that has been historically enjoyed in the Itoigawa (Niigata prefecture) region for a long time. Batabatacha is said to have originated in the neighboring prefecture of Toyama Prefecture in the town of Asahimachi Birudan. Today, it is a rare tea. This batabatacha from Seikoen is made by boiling the blended batabata tea androasted soybeans, hojicha (roasted tea), and tea flowers. Then, adding a tiny bit of salt, and whipping the drink with a special chasen, kind of like one would do to make matcha. It is said that the unique name, "batabata" comes from the sound of making this particular tea or the rushing hours of the morning. In Japanese, "batabata" is one of the onomatopoeias that signifies commotion and when used as an adverb, can mean flapping, rattling or cluttering (noises).

Note: The special bamboo batabata-cha chasen that is used to make this tea is available through Seikoen.

Flavor Notes

Using more modern steeping parameters, the tea offers a toasty base flavor with a note of herbs and a strong buttery aftertaste.

Steeping Recomendation

Tea: 5 grams
Time: 3 minutes
Water: Hot water (tasting notes above used 90C/195F degrees), 400 ml

Product Info

Ingredients: kawara ketsumei (Chamaecrista nomame), roasted green tea (hojicha), roasted soybeans, tea flowers (camellia sinensis flowers)
Region: Itoigawa, Niigata Prefecture

Vendor Info

Name: Seikoen Tea Factory
Type: Tea Finishing Factory based in Northern Japan
President: Yoshiyuki Matsuki
Location: Ichinomiya 4-1-6 Itoigawa, Niigata 941-0056, Japan