"Drinking the morning green tea,
The monk is calm.
The flowers of chrysanthemum."
(Matsuo Basho)
Autumn in Japan brings to mind introspection, resilience, and quiet beauty. These seasons are extra special for savoring tea's warmth and flavor.
Nature plays a central role in this time of year, with seasonal motifs adding deeper meaning to daily life. Common symbols include momiji (red maple leaves that represent change), kaki (persimmons symbolizing abundance), kiku (chrysanthemums for longevity and imperial elegance), and susuki (pampas grass associated with the harvest moon). Evergreen plants like matsu (pine, for endurance), take (bamboo, for flexibility and prosperity), and tsubaki (camellia, which blooms in the cold) also feature prominently.
Seasonal traditions add to the quiet mood of this time. People celebrate Tsukimi (moon viewing) with dango and susuki, welcome winter with the robiraki tea ceremony, and take part in kuchikiri, when tea jars sealed in summer are finally opened.
Tied into this deep appreciation for tea and the changing seasons is the All Japan Competitive Tea Exhibition (Hinpyōkai) in September, where tea growers showcase leaves carefully crafted since spring, judged for their aroma and taste.
At Sazen Tea, let's celebrate with some warm offerings for autumn.
Welcoming those new to tea and longtime users alike…
Autumn in Japan is all about slowing down, staying warm, and enjoying the simple things, like a good cup of tea. From aged seasonal brews and award-winning competition teas to cozy black and oolong picks, this collection brings together our top choices for cooler days. Whether you're winding down, staying sharp, or just enjoying the moment, these teas and herbal blends are made to fit right into your daily rhythm.
Seasonal offers
A traditional Japanese tea ritual marks the opening of tea jars that were sealed after the spring harvest. These ceramic jars are typically stored in the cooler mountain regions over summer, allowing the tea to age and deepen in flavor. In autumn, they are unsealed in a special ceremony — this ritual is known as kuchikiri (also called tsubokiri). To celebrate this timeless tradition, we’re offering a selection of special limited-edition teas, brought in just for the season.
Tsubokiri Gyokuro ⎼ Japanese Green Tea by Marukyu Koyamaen
Uji's matured perfection, rich in L-Theanin, deep in umami.
☞ 90 g Branded CAN > $30.78
Tsubokiri Sencha Kin ⎼ Japanese Green Tea by Marukyu Koyamaen
Uji's golden mellow, vitamin-rich green tea for cool days.
☞ 90 g Branded CAN > $15.66
Kuchikiri Matcha - Usucha Wakamori no Shiro and Koicha Chiyo no Kotobuki
by Kanbayashi Shunsho
from mid-October (estimated availability from 21, Oct)
A medium-bodied, smooth and mellow usucha with woodsy and nutty notes; and a full-bodied, invigorating, sweet and smooth koicha.
Competitive Quality Teas
The National Tea Competition of Japan is the country’s most prestigious event dedicated to Japanese tea. Held annually, it evaluates the highest-quality teas from across Japan and recognizes the very best with top honors. Winning an award at the National Tea Competition is an extraordinary achievement. Our collection of competitive teas are available from late September.
Sencha Teki Teki - Japanese Green Tea by Marukyu Koyamaen
Supreme Sencha competed in the All-Japan Tea Competitive Exhibition, with gentle but characteristic flavor and pale yellow color
☞ 40 g Branded CAN > $45.90
☞ 100 g Branded BAG > $109.08
☞ 100 g Branded CAN > $111.24
Gyokuro Kyohomare - Japanese Green Tea by Kanbayashi Shunsho
Gyokuro Kyohomare is the finest, top-tier gyokuro in Kanbayashi Shunsho's portfolio. It offers a smooth, silky texture with a rich umami flavor.
☞ 100 g Branded BAG > $108.00
Matcha Babamukashi by Kanbayashi Shunsho
Uniquely creamy with notes of dried dates, tender greens and vanilla, this matcha tea is extraordinariliy sweet and dessert-like with no bitterness.
☞ 20 g Branded BOX > $45.90
☞ 40 g Branded BOX > $58.32
☞ 20 g Refill BAG > $143.63
Our team's loose tea recommendation for the fall season
As the busy season kicks in—with school, work, and holidays around the corner—we all need a moment to slow down. A warm cup of tea is the perfect way to pause, reset, and recharge. Cozy up with these earthy picks from Japan, China, and Taiwan.
Ohmi Kōcha Benifūki - Japanese Black Tea
Fruity black tea from Shiga, with vanilla caramel warmth to ward off the cold. Benifuki black tea is also valued for its support in easing autumn allergies.
☞ 50 g Sazen BAG > $10.80
Charcoal Roasted Si Ji Chun - Taiwan Oolong Tea
Graham-cracker aroma of the heated wet tea leaf, from charcoal roast for (indoor or outdoor) fireside moments. With its cozy roasted aroma, it’s a natural stress reliever.
☞ 30 g Sazen BAG > $11.88
☞ 100 g Sazen BAG > $35.64
Feng Huang Zhi Xiang - Chinese Oolong
A floral-fruity, creamy-sweet tea with custard and osmanthus aromas for a festive feel.
☞ 10 g Sazen BAG > $8.64
☞ 20 g Sazen BAG > $17.28
Da Hong Pao 2020 - Chinese Oolong Tea
From Wuyi Mountains, known as the king of rock teas, with rich, fruity, and flowery fragrance from multiple roastings, intense full-bodied taste with toasted and caramelized notes.
☞ 20 g Sazen BAG > $30.24
☞ 50 g Sazen BAG > $70.20
Sazen Tea 2025 Autumn Blend: AUTUMN'S BEST PICK!
Limited edition blend of green tea, Ohmi black tea, and genmai for comforting earthy walnut notes, woody depth, and lingering sweetness.
☞ 50 g Sazen BAG > $6.48
☞ 100 g Sazen BAG > $12.96
Herbal tea recommendations
Chinese and Japanese traditional medicine are rooted in centuries of practice, focusing on balance and prevention. They often use natural herbs, many with anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, or calming properties. Essential qualities include harmony with the body, gentle yet effective action, and a focus on long-term well-being. These tradition-inspired, low-caffeine teas are perfect for warming the body and preparing it for the colder seasons.
Jin Si Ju Hua Cha - Chinese Herbal Tea
Chrysanthemum for throat relief and anti-inflammation.
☞ 2 g / 1 pc > $2.16
☞ 12 g / 6 pcs > $12.96
☞ 60 g / 30 pcs > $64.80
Murasakiimo Powder - Japanese Sweet Potato Powder
Nutty purple potato for digestion-friendly lattes
☞ 50 g Sazen BAG > $6.48
☞ 100 g Sazen BAG > $12.96
Yōjōcha Irodori Series - Japanese Herbal Blends
Healing tea blends crafted with the knowledge of Chinese herbal traditions.
☞ 1 teabag > $3.89
☞ Tasting Set Premium (4 Teabags) > $15.55
☞ Yōjōcha Tasting Set (7 Teabags) > $27.22
Wild Rose Tea - Chinese Herbal Tea
A soothing tea that's believed to improve skin quality and digestion. It may strengthen the immune system and is also said to help ease pain and cramps.
☞ 30 g Sazen BAG > $17.28
☞ 100 g Sazen BAG > $51.84
Brewing Tips
Looking to bring out the best in your brew?
Try these ideas:
✓ Toast your tea before brewing
Chakoro gently toasts tea leaves using the soft glow of candlelight, releasing their warm, roasted aroma into the air. It’s a natural way to scent your space while bringing out the tea’s sweetness and depth. Just take a portion of your favorite tea, toast it over the chakoro, and enjoy the cozy scent in the air and the rich flavor in every sip.
Buy Chakoro here:
Chakoro
Ceramic tea burner for indulging all your senses, and making your room feel warm and cosy with the gentle candlelight and the relaxing, rustic fragrance of roasted tea.
☞ $52.80 / piece
✓ Use tea cozy (teapot cover) for your favorite black tea
Black tea, in particular, brews best at high temperatures. The cozy helps maintain a stable temperature throughout the brewing process and creates a warm and homely atmosphere.
Pair your brews with the season
Daily life is deeply connected to the seasons, with seasonal items and traditions used to honor nature’s constant changes. Autumn in Japan, with its vivid colors, is often considered the most spectacular of all. Bring a piece of this beautiful season into your home and celebrate its warmth and charm.
Small Chawan MomijiA small matcha bowl decorated with maple leaves — perfect for autumn vibes.
☞ $13.20 / piece
Meiren Glass Teaware series
A stunning Chinese glass teaware series that makes any tea session a magical experience. Enjoy watching the leaves and blossoms come to life.
☞ Teapot: $88.00 / piece ☞ Cups: $55.00 / piece ☞ Pitcher: $66.00 / piece
Maekawa Junzō's artworks perfectly embody rustic elegance and pair beautifully with the vibes of autumn.
☞ Gaiwan: $165.00 / piece ☞ Cups: $27.50 / piece
Bakelite Tea Tray
Made for traditional Chinese tea sessions but perfect for daily use, this tray combines smart design with simple style. It’s one of Sazen’s newest finds, featuring built-in drainage and a super durable bakelite body that handles spills with ease.
☞ $450.00 / piece
Let these elements and themes transform your tea experience!
From Tsubokiri and Hinpyōkai to global warmers, please enjoy memorable connections this year with Sazen Tea.
