This fine quality tea is produced in the Japanese style on Japanese equipment but grown in China. Until we are able to import radiation free teas from Japan we will substitute what we can with teas of an equivalent flavour and quality. We are keeping the teas under the Japanese heading to help you buy teas with the Japanese character rather than Chinese.This special Japanese tea whose name translates as ‘Pearl Dew’ is shaded with reed screens for twenty days prior to harvesting to block out the sun. This serves to increase the chlorophyll and amino acid content. It is this amino acid, called theanine, and a special processing technique that give Gyokuro its unique sweet flavour and intense aroma. The greater quantities of these ingredients also increase its health giving properties over other green teas.