Japanese Shincha Teas
Shincha or "new tea" is the first tea harvest season in Japan beginning in late March.
Shincha or "new tea" is the first tea harvest season in Japan beginning in late March.
"This is by far the best Earl Grey tea I have had. I drink a lot of tea and only drink Rishi Earl Grey. You will love the flavor. "
—Marshall
Rich | Citrusy | Floral
from $3
"I don't believe there is a better green tea you can get in a bag. The evidence is in the bright, even, grassy green color this tea makes."
—JD
Sweet | Smooth | Umami
from $34
"I love this tea - the richness of it is amazing, and it relaxes me with the ginger and turmeric. Such a winner :)"
—Kayla
Spicy | Zesty | Fragrant
from $10
"This tea is absolutely amazing! I feel immediate uplifting effects after consuming. Rishi has the best quality tea that I have found on any shelf thus far."
—Tia
Vibrant | Tart | Luscious
from $34
"This is seriously the BEST chai concentrate out there. It's incredible and has such a great spice. I'll never go back to another brand."
—Courtney
Spicy | Rich | Fragrant
from $25.50
"This is my first tasting of oolong tea and I'm in love! It's flavor is delicate yet robust and floral. Absolutely delicious, my new favorite tea."
—Amber
Roasty | Dried Fruit | Smooth
from $3
"Delicious and satisfying. It's delicate enough to drink without doctoring but also bold enough to hold up to cream and honey. An absolute delight."
—Star
Malty | Jammy | Mellow
from $3
Prized for its light and refreshing flavor, shincha teas are a step above the more common sencha green tea many are familiar with. These teas are plucked in the first harvest of the season, typically in April, resulting in a flavor and aroma only new tea can provide. Its freshness and care in preparation results in a nuanced flavor that is both sweet and astringent, with a balance between strong umami and deep heartiness. Steeped in tradition and care, these teas are sure to impress any Japanese sencha lover.
These teas are best enjoyed similarly to other sencha teas, with hot water that has been cooled slightly and in small batches. We suggest brewing 1 tablespoon of tea with 5 ounces of water, brewing for 45 seconds at a time. These teas can be rebrewed 2-3 times, after which they will begin to taste weaker.
Both of these teas have the same growing process, but their plucking and oxidation preparation is slightly different. Shincha varieties are only the first harvest of tea from the tree, while later harvests are considered sencha teas.
Due to its oxidation level and preparation, shincha is a green tea, with similar caffeine content and general flavor notes to Japanese sencha teas.
Yes — they also contain L-theanine, another compound commonly found in tea. The combination of L-theanine and caffeine in these teas can result in feeling a more even energy boost without the typical caffeine crash.
Looking for more limited-edition teas? Browse our Garden Direct collection, where Rishi Tea selects the most unique and luxury teas we are able to source. Our Garden Direct teas are procured through our Direct Trade relationships, a program that encourages ethical tea distribution and ensures the growers we work with are able to receive the best price they can for their teas. Try our teas today and taste the difference for yourself!