Hidden Dragon, Hidden Tea.

The late-life masterpiece “Fuji-koshi Ryuzu” (Dragon Over Mount Fuji) by Katsushika Hokusai remains shrouded in mystery. Was it painted by Hokusai himself, or with the hand of his daughter and disciple, Katsushika Ōi? Even today, the work is privately owned and rarely seen, earning its reputation as a “phantom dragon painting.”

Kyobancha, a traditional tea of Kyoto, shares a similar hidden legacy. With its bold smoky aroma, it has been loved for centuries by locals, yet remained little-known outside the region.

Premium Uji matcha from Kyoto is used in the blend.
Its fine, stone-milled texture and rich umami beautifully harmonize with the smoky aroma of Kyobancha.

WACHA’s signature creation, “SmoKYO – Smoky Matcha”, unites these two hidden cultures. Just like a dragon rising through smoke into the heavens, the smoky notes of Kyobancha blend seamlessly with the rich umami of Uji Matcha and WACHA’s original Green Matcha—creating a tea experience both mysterious and unforgettable.

WACHA’s “SmoKYO” is not about roasted aroma,
but the fusion of smoky fragrance (Kunko) with matcha —
the first attempt of its kind in Japanese tea.
This distinction in aroma lineage and production method
is the core reason behind its “world’s first” designation.

(WACHA internal research, as of October 2025: Based on our study of blends combining Kyoto Kyōbancha’s smoky aroma with matcha in Japan and major overseas markets.)

Q: What is Kyobancha?
A: Kyobancha: Kyoto’s Hidden Roasted Tea
Kyobancha is a unique, region-specific Japanese tea found only in Kyoto.
Unlike standard bancha or sencha, its leaves and stems are roasted in large iron pans over high heat, producing a distinct smoky aroma (kunko).

The flavor evokes campfires and hearths—rustic, toasty, and deeply comforting. In Kyoto, it has long been known as the everyday tea for all generations, enjoyed by children and elders alike.

Because of its limited production and distinctive character, Kyobancha has rarely been distributed nationwide, making it one of Kyoto’s hidden treasures of tea culture.

Unlike the well-known Hojicha, Kyobancha is a rare roasted tea traditionally enjoyed in Kyoto households. Made from mature tea leaves and stems harvested in early spring, it is slowly roasted to create a gentle smokiness, low caffeine, and a mineral-rich flavor.

【Key Differences from Hojicha】
Leaves:
Hojicha: young leaves and stems
Kyobancha: large, matured leaves and twigs

Flavor:
Hojicha: nutty, roasted, slightly sweet
Kyobancha: smoky, earthy, warming

Caffeine:
Hojicha: low
Kyobancha: very low, perfect for evening

Appeal
Kyobancha offers a craft-like smoky character, reminiscent of wood-fire traditions, making it especially attractive to wellness seekers, tea connoisseurs, and even whiskey or craft beer enthusiasts looking for a non-alcoholic alternative.

Features
・Innovative blend of Kyobancha × Uji Matcha × WACHA Green Matcha
・Smoky, toasty aroma harmonized with matcha’s mellow umami
・Lower in caffeine, ideal for evening relaxation
・100% natural, additive-free, made in Japan
・Artistic design tin inspired by Japanese heritage—perfect as a gift

Recommended For
・A mindful break during work or study
・A calming evening ritual before bedtime
・A thoughtful gift for tea lovers and overseas friends
・Those seeking a new style of matcha experience with smoky depth

How to Enjoy
・Scoop 2g of matcha into a tea bowl
・Add 50ml hot water (80°C / 176°F)
・Whisk for 15 seconds and savor

Enjoyment Guide
・Straight: First bloom the aroma with a splash of hot water, then finish with water at the right temperature for a clear, smoky note.
・Latte: Blend with warm milk for a smoky matcha latte (pairs beautifully with brown sugar or maple).
・Soda / Cocktail: Carbonation lifts the aroma, while a touch of lemon peel sharpens the finish.

“SmoKYO – Smoky Matcha”
The Phantom Dragon and the Hidden Tea Treasure.
Together they create a new Japanese matcha experience with smoky aroma and umami—born only in Kyoto.

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Visitor’s Voice (from JAPAN TEA EXPO 2025)

“This was such a unique experience — so smoky, yet so delicious!
I also loved the other matcha blends and ended up buying three cans in total.
Thank you for creating such an amazing product.”

— Visitor at JAPAN TEA EXPO 2025