Nichigetsu (日月), meaning
Sun and Moon, is Ippodo's most approachable sencha and the natural starting point for those discovering Japanese green tea. Light-bodied and exceptionally easy to drink, it offers a gentle balance of sweetness, freshness and soft astringency without overwhelming the palate.
Compared with Hosen, Nichigetsu is lighter in body and more delicate in flavour, making it an excellent introduction before progressing into Ippodo's fuller sencha offerings.
The aroma is fresh and clean with notes of young spring greens, steamed vegetables and sweet hay. On the palate it opens with a gentle sweetness before soft vegetal notes and a refreshing finish. The light umami and restrained astringency create an easy-drinking tea that remains balanced from first sip to last.
Whether enjoyed with breakfast, during an afternoon break or alongside a meal, Nichigetsu is designed as an everyday sencha that can be appreciated repeatedly throughout the day.
Weight | 160g
Origin | Kyoto prefecture, Japan
Best Suited For
-
First-time sencha drinkers
- Daily drinking
- Morning or afternoon tea
- Light meals
- Those who enjoy a softer, fresher green tea
- Cold brewed
Enjoyed With
- Grilled fish, sushi
- Steamed dumplings
- Rice bowls
- Simple noodle dishes
- Avocado toast
- Light salads
- Cake and biscuits
Brewing Recommendations
Amount of Leaves Per Pot: 10g
Water: 210ml brewed at 80ºC
Allow the leaves to steep for 60 seconds. Makes 3 cups of tea. Each pot can be brewed up to 3 times. 150g tin
averages: 16-48 pots of tea
About the Producer
Founded in Kyoto in 1717, Ippodo Tea has spent more than three centuries dedicated to Japanese tea. Originally established as Omiya by Rihei Watanabe, the business later received the name Ippodo from Prince Yamashina in recognition of its commitment to preserving a singular standard of quality.
Today, Ippodo remains family owned and is overseen by the sixth and seventh generations. Whilst internationally recognised for matcha, the producer's expertise extends across the full spectrum of Japanese tea, from sencha and gyokuro through to everyday household favourites such as Mugicha.
For more than 300 years, Ippodo has focused on sourcing, blending and evaluating teas that are approachable, enjoyable and capable of enriching daily life. This philosophy continues to guide the producer today, whether crafting exceptional ceremonial matcha or some of Japan's most respected leaf teas.
