Kagoshima Organic Gyokuro - Kiwami

“Saemidori” (冴え緑) means “bright green,” referring to the vivid colour of its first spring flush.

Saemidori is a high-quality, early-budding Japanese tea cultivar, prized for its rich umami flavour and vibrant green color. Initially known as Makurazaki No. 9, it was developed by crossing Yabukita and Asatsuyu, and later officially registered as Saemidori.

Mr. Sakamoto’s tea garden lies about 200 meters above sea level, where his unique soil treatment and favourable microclimate create ideal conditions for tea cultivation — especially for Gyokuro.

Saemidori’s delicate leaves require careful handling, a craft perfected through Mr. Sakamoto’s long experience. His tea reveals a bright, fresh green appearance, a refreshing and elegant aroma, and a rich umami flavour with a smooth, clean finish and minimal astringency.