The Appeal of Tea Nurtured by Sera’s Harsh Winters — A Supreme Cup Woven by Heaven, Earth, and People

Even within Hiroshima Prefecture, climatic conditions vary significantly from region to region. The tea we produce is grown in Sera Town, at an elevation of approximately 300–450 meters, and we would like to explain how this environment influences both cultivation and flavor.

1. Differences in Hiroshima Prefecture
   

    

    

   Hiroshima Prefecture stretches from the coast of the Seto Inland Sea inland, resulting in markedly different climates. The coastal areas along the Seto Inland Sea are generally warm throughout the year, with very little snowfall, representing a relatively mild climate.

   In contrast, inland and highland areas such as Sera experience much colder conditions, with low temperatures and heavy snowfall in winter.
   

2. The Severity of Winter in Sera
   Sera is particularly cold in winter, with nighttime temperatures dropping to around -9°C, and snowfall is not uncommon. While such harsh conditions place significant stress on plants, tea trees continue to grow even in this environment.
   

3. Cold Resistance of Tea Plants and Preparation for Spring
   Despite the severe winter conditions of cold and snow, tea plants in Sera survive remarkably well and prepare for growth in the warmer spring season. By enduring the harsh winter, they accumulate strength for vigorous growth in spring.
   
   

4. Growth Suppression and Accumulation of Umami Compounds
   

   In cold environments, the growth of tea plants slows down. Rather than rapid expansion, components such as amino acids, catechins, and polyphenols—responsible for umami and aroma—accumulate gradually within the leaves.

   As a result, new spring shoots that emerge after a harsh winter tend to have a concentrated flavor and produce high-quality tea.

5. Production of Protective Compounds Through Cold Stress
   Low temperatures act as a form of stress for tea plants. In response, the plants generate antioxidant and other protective compounds to defend themselves. These compounds are believed to contribute depth and complexity to the flavor of tea.
   

6. Insulation and Slow Water Release from Snow
   Snow acts as an insulating layer for tea roots, protecting them from sudden drops in temperature. In spring, melting snow gradually supplies water and minerals to the soil, allowing tea plants to absorb nutrients steadily and grow in a stable environment. This ultimately contributes to richer flavor development.
   

7. The Strength of Tea Plants That Survive Winter
   Tea plants that endure harsh winters reflect their resilience and adaptability in the quality of the leaves they produce. Those that survive cold and snow and prepare for spring growth tend to develop distinctive, full-bodied flavors that differ from teas grown in milder regions.
   
   

These factors combine to produce tea grown in regions such as Sera, which experience harsh winters, resulting in a flavor profile distinct from teas produced in warmer areas—one with greater depth, rich aroma, and well-balanced umami.

However, these environmental factors alone do not define tea quality. Equally important are the harvesting and production processes. Even if the tea is grown in an ideal natural environment, improper timing of harvest, picking methods, manufacturing techniques, or storage conditions can undermine its quality.

What humans can do for tea plants that have endured the harsh winter is to refine their raw potential—turning a rough stone into a polished diamond.

The foundation of tea making is “Heaven, Earth, and People.” Only when these three elements are in perfect harmony does the highest quality tea emerge.