Shopping Japanese Tea: Ocharaka

by BELONGING JAPAN 9 November 2023

written by BELONGING JAPAN 9 November 2023

To see Ocharaka featured in our “Area Guide in Ningyocho” video, along with other recommended places, please check out the page below.

Beyond the standard

As you stroll through Ningyocho’s Amazake Yokocho, a suddenly fragrant aroma of roasted Japanese tea captures your attention. The specialized Japanese tea shop ‘Ocharaka’ was founded by Danton Stephane, originally from France, who had previously worked as a sommelier. Upon arriving in Japan, he was captivated by Japanese culture but surprised by the fading presence of traditional Japanese tea culture. Rejecting the notion of rigid standards for what Japanese tea should be, he believed that it is important to approach each customer individually and provide a cup of tea tailored to their preferences. This led him to develop his original flavored teas. These teas, infused with scents of plants and fruits, are applied to green tea and hojicha.

Over 60 Different Flavors to Suit Your Preferences

Within the store, an array of diverse teas lines the shelves, ranging from flavors inspired by Japanese tastes such as yuzu and sake, to fruits like strawberries and muscat grapes, and even caramel. Stephane, who believes that Japanese tea should be savored with the eyes, nose, and mouth, made a Fragrant Olive-flavored hojicha for me. It was the first time I had tasted this flavor, but the clear golden tea exuded a sweet and refreshing aroma, leaving a clear and memorable taste. Impressed by its deliciousness, I decided to take some home. These teas can be prepared conventionally with hot water or even cold water.

Continuous Innovation

Additionally, the newly developed ‘Instant Powder Tea’ processes tea extract into a powder form and is stored in a portable bottle. It dissolves easily in hot water or cold water, and there are many flavors that pair well with milk or soy milk. While lattes in Japan are typically made with milk, with this powder, you can customize your own, making it a recommended option for vegans as well. Discover your own unique taste at ‘Ocharaka,’ a place that continues to expand the possibilities of Japanese tea.