Gyokuro Okabe Gokou (Hand Plucked)

About Gyokuro Okabe Gokou (Hand Plucked)

This rare Gyokuro from the village of Miyajima situated in the Okabe area is a true connoisseur’s tea, crafted exclusively from the prized Gokou cultivar—renowned for its deep umami and luxuriously smooth, silky mouthfeel. Shade-grown with care and produced in small batches, it offers a bold yet refined expression of Japan’s most sophisticated green tea tradition.

About

Hand plucked in spring from the historic tea-growing region of Shizuoka, this limited-edition Gyokuro showcases the distinctive character of the Gokou cultivar. After more than 20 days of shading, the leaves develop an intense umami profile and satisfyingly smooth texture. The resulting infusion is full-bodied, richly layered, and finished with a long, elegant linger.

Cultivation & Processing

Nestled in the cool, misty hills of Miyajima village found in Okabe, Shizuoka, this Gyokuro is cultivated with meticulous attention. Only the youngest buds are selected by hand at their peak, then lightly steamed to retain their vivid colour and fresh aroma. Precision rolling and drying techniques further enhance the tea’s vegetal depth and refined complexity.

Effects

This Gyokuro offers a calming, meditative experience ideal for moments of focus and stillness. High in L-theanine, it promotes mental clarity without drowsiness. Its rich, silk-like mouthfeel and long finish make it a luxurious choice for slow, mindful sipping.

How to Enjoy / Tea Pairing

Best brewed at lower temperatures to reveal its savoury, umami depth. Pairs beautifully with umami-rich dishes like grilled unagi or miso-marinated tofu, as well as subtly sweet desserts like panna cotta. For the Japanese traditional brewing method, use only 100ml and 6g of tea leaves for 20 seconds.