The Full moon offers an opportunity to enjoy some exotic and healthful teas based on the recommended diet of Lunar Day 15, the Japanese Diet. If you’re looking to reduce your caffeine intake, here are some interesting, diverse and healthy alternatives. They embrace a healthier morning routine with a Japanese twist. These alternatives not only provide energy but also offer various health benefits.

Each alternative is paired with traditional Japanese breakfast options to start your full moon day right. Organic options with links to purchase included at end of each tea. Give them a try on the Full Moon with Japanese Tea Service. Learn more here. Or, you could balance the active Full Moon day with a few moments of quiet time to yourself to calm down with a silent, intuitive Japanese inspired Tea Ceremony for One.

1. Matcha Green Tea

• Taste: Earthy, slightly sweet, and creamy when whisked well.
• Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, boosts metabolism, provides calm alertness, supports heart health, detoxifies naturally.
• Japanese Breakfast Pairing: Tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet) and a side of steamed rice.
• Organic Option: Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder

2. Hojicha Tea

• Taste: Roasted, nutty, and slightly sweet.
• Benefits: Lower in caffeine than green tea, rich in antioxidants, aids digestion, calming effects.
• Japanese Breakfast Pairing: Miso soup with tofu and seaweed.
• Organic Option: Organic Hojicha Loose Leaf Tea

3. Genmaicha Tea

• Taste: Nutty, toasty, with a hint of sweetness from roasted brown rice.
• Benefits: Lower caffeine content, aids digestion, rich in antioxidants, calming and soothing.
• Japanese Breakfast Pairing: Onigiri (rice balls) with a filling of your choice (e.g., umeboshi, salmon).
• Organic Option: Organic Genmaicha Green Tea

4. Kukicha (Twig Tea)

• Taste: Mild, slightly sweet, with a hint of nuttiness.
• Benefits: Very low in caffeine, high in antioxidants, supports digestion, balances pH levels.
• Japanese Breakfast Pairing: Natto (fermented soybeans) served with steamed rice.
• Organic Option: Organic Kukicha Twig Tea

5. Soba Cha (Buckwheat Tea)

• Taste: Toasty, nutty, with a slightly sweet aftertaste.
• Benefits: Caffeine-free, rich in antioxidants, supports digestion, gluten-free, aids in weight management.
• Japanese Breakfast Pairing: Soba noodles with a light soy-based broth and scallions.
• Organic Option: Organic Soba Cha Buckwheat Tea

6. Mugicha (Barley Tea)

• Taste: Roasted, nutty, with a slight sweetness.
• Benefits: Caffeine-free, aids digestion, hydrates, rich in antioxidants, helps to cool the body.
• Japanese Breakfast Pairing: Grilled fish (such as mackerel) with a side of pickled vegetables.
• Organic Option: Organic Mugicha Barley Tea

7. Umeboshi Plum Tea

• Taste: Tangy, salty, and slightly sweet.
• Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, aids digestion, detoxifying properties, helps with fatigue recovery.
• Japanese Breakfast Pairing: Traditional Japanese breakfast set with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, and a small portion of grilled fish.
• Organic Option: Organic Umeboshi Plums (steep in hot water to make tea)

8. Shiso (Perilla) Tea

• Taste: Refreshing, slightly minty, with a hint of spiciness.
• Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, rich in antioxidants, aids digestion, supports respiratory health.
• Japanese Breakfast Pairing: Chawanmushi (savory egg custard) with a side of steamed rice.
• Organic Option: Organic Shiso Tea

9. Kombucha (Seaweed Tea)

• Taste: Umami, slightly salty, and savory.
• Benefits: Rich in iodine and minerals, supports thyroid health, aids digestion, hydrating.
• Japanese Breakfast Pairing: Tsukemono (Japanese pickles) with steamed rice.
• Organic Option: Organic Kombu Seaweed (steep in hot water to make tea)

10. Sakura (Cherry Blossom) Tea

• Taste: Delicate, floral, with a slight sweetness.
• Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, calming, promotes relaxation, caffeine-free.
• Japanese Breakfast Pairing: Anpan (sweet red bean bun) or mochi.
• Organic Option: Organic Sakura Tea

These alternatives offer a variety of health benefits and pair perfectly with traditional Japanese breakfasts. Enjoy exploring these options and discovering your new favorite morning drink!