Sencha, a staple in Tokyo homes, is harvested from broad leaf bushes and steamed before drying. It's a brighter green than most Chinese greens. Newbies to green tea will often favor either Japanese or Chinese teas for a while, before their taste buds demand greater variety.

Our Churchmouse Sencha has compelling notes of grass, honey and delicate seaweed. This luxury tea at an affordable price is another example of the terrific finds from our Seattle tea man, who has been combining top quality with top value for five decades. A Japanese-style bow in his direction wouldn't go amiss.