Beginning of summer

May 5th marks "Rikka" (the first day of summer).

The soft spring air gradually begins to mix with strong sunlight, and the scenery transitions from pale hues to vibrant fresh greenery.

The spring has passed and summer has come, it seems.
On Mount Kagu in heaven, where white robes are hung to dry.
— Empress Jitō

This poem, symbolizing the season, captures the subtle hint of summer within the mundane sight of white clothes drying. From this poem, composed approximately 1300 years ago, we can see that the appreciation for finding seasonal transitions in small daily changes has remained cherished, both then and now.

From soft spring to bright summer.

The blended tea for Rikka, which marks this transition, combines "Yabukita" sencha from Gifu Prefecture with pine needles, kuromoji leaves, and lemon peel, creating a flavor that evokes a moment of deep breathing amidst fresh greenery.

With Hachijuhachiya (the 88th day after the start of spring) having arrived, the new tea season has truly begun. We are also introducing it in stores and on our online shop, so please look forward to it.

May tea time be a moment that gently soothes your heart amidst the changing seasons.