I learned about this gathering of black tea producers and enthusiasts by chance from my tea friend Marjolein from Ikedoki Tea. Tsushima is a fairly remote island, located closer to Korea than to mainland Japan. The Sumit was originally supposed to take place last year, but a typhoon forced its postponement. Many people first heard about Tsushima thanks to the game Ghost of Tsushima.

Getting there is neither easy nor quick. Ferry from Fukuoka to Izuhara, then a 2 hour 45 minute bus ride across the entire island  or a night ferry departing at 22:30 from Hakata and arriving at 3:30. From a pragmatic, economic perspective, traveling to such a distant place doesn’t make much sense — which is exactly why I wanted to go. Japanese black tea is not a main focus for me, but the chance to taste so many different Koucha from different farmers side-by-side was far too tempting. I assumed that anyone willing to make such a trip from the opposite end of Japan must be a true tea devotee.

The festival gathered farmers of all generations, from young producers to seasoned veterans. As for the teas themselves, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality, originality, and the sheer number of organic growers. In hindsight, it makes sense. Long journey acted as a natural filter, and those who overcame it truly had something to offer.

The tea that impressed me the most was one harvested during a full-moon night. It may sound like a fairytale, but beyond the photos, it was the taste that convinced me of uniqueness of this tea. Extraordinary experience. I was also captivated by a Koucha made from 100-year-old tea trees. Korean teas were also available for tasting and purchase — and Korea’s presentation was superb. 

The international visitors of this festoval consisted of Marjolein (Netherlands), Lilia (Germany), Sarah (USA), and myself, plus an elderly couple of unknown nationality.

Although the festival was rather small — around 30 exhibitors — it had a very pleasant and intimate atmosphere. It broadened my understanding of what Japanese black tea can become, and I also formed new friendships. And I again met Mr. Tokaza from Sonogi there — so perhaps we can look forward to offering his Tamaryokucha in the future.

Areek

Rishe Tea