The Nihoncha Award 2024 celebrates Japan’s finest teas by inviting submissions from tea makers across the country and recognizing the nation’s best tea. The award is unique in its selection process that includes opinions from both specialists and the general consumer.
18 iCLA students had the opportunity to participate in a tasting for the Nihoncha Award 2024. The event was hosted in the Language Acquisition Center (LAC). The participation of iCLA students from around Japan and the world incorporates a global perspective that is helpful in promoting the appeal of Japanese tea abroad. During the event, the group of students sampled 20 different Japanese teas which have been chosen out of 562 entries. The selection of “Platinum Award” teas showcased a diverse range produced by tea companies all over Japan, including black tea, green tea, oolong tea, and more.
iCLA students also participated in the Nihoncha Award in 2023.
Certified Instructors from the Japanese Tea Instructors Association brewed each tea with precision using traditional Japanese tea pots, and students could observe the professional brewing in front of them. The freshly brewed teas were served one after another, and after tasting the distinct flavors of each, students chose their personal favorite, or “My Best Tea”, out of the 20 teas.
This unique experience introduced students to professional Japanese tea brewing methods and allowed them to explore the rich diversity of Japanese teas. Additionally, iCLA students’ votes will contribute to determining the first-place winner of the Nihoncha Awards 2024.
The winning tea will be announced on the Nihoncha Award website.