What is Sencha Green Tea?

Sencha (煎茶) is a Japanese green tea that is steamed immediately after harvesting to prevent oxidation, preserving its fresh, grassy aroma and rich green colour. Unlike matcha, which is ground into a fine powder, sencha loose leaf tea consists of whole leaves that are carefully rolled and dried.

Sencha is high in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which are known for their health benefits, including boosting metabolism, supporting heart health, and providing a natural source of energy without the jitters of coffee.

The Perfect Sencha Brewing Guide

1. Choose High-Quality Loose Leaf Sencha

2. Use the Right Water Temperature

One of the most common mistakes when brewing Japanese sencha loose leaf tea is using boiling water. High temperatures can scorch the leaves, resulting in a bitter taste. It’s preferable to heat the water until it reaches this level to prevent oxygen from escaping, but if you’re in a pinch you can always leave the kettle for a minute or two after it’s boiled. Experimentation is half the fun!

• Ideal water temperature for sencha: 70°C – 80°C

• Lower temperatures (around 70°C) bring out more sweetness and umami.

• Higher temperatures (closer to 80°C) result in a stronger, slightly more astringent flavour.

3. Measure the Right Amount of Tea Leaves

Using the correct ratio of sencha leaves to water ensures a well-balanced flavour.

• Standard brewing ratio: 1 teaspoon (2g) of sencha per 200ml of water.

• For a stronger brew, use 2 teaspoons (4g) per 200ml.

A kyusu teapot is the best brewing vessel for sencha, but you can also use one of our lovely FORLIFE ceramic teapots, or even a convenient basket infuser.

4. Steep for the Right Time

The steeping, or brewing time is just as important as the temperature. Over-steeping will make the tea taste bitter, while under-steeping may result in a weak infusion. From quality Sencha it is possible to get three infusions, with a slightly unique flavour in each.

• First infusion: 1 - 2 minutes

• Second infusion: 15 – 30 seconds (Use the same leaves but a shorter steeping time)

• Third infusion: 1 – 2 minutes

5. Pour and Enjoy

When pouring sencha, ensure you empty the teapot completely to prevent over-steeping. If using a kyusu teapot, rotate it gently as you pour to distribute the flavour evenly among cups.

Enjoy your freshly brewed sencha green tea on its own, or why not pair it with light Japanese snacks such as mochi, rice crackers, or sushi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Brewing Sencha

To get the best flavour from your Japanese sencha tea, avoid these common mistakes:

❌ Using boiling water – Always cool the water to 70°C – 80°C.

❌ Steeping for too long – Stick to no more than 2 minutes for the first infusion.

❌ Using too many leaves – Measure about 1 teaspoon per 200ml of water.

❌ Not reusing the leaves – Sencha can be steeped at least 2–3 times for multiple cups.

Health Benefits of Sencha Green Tea

Drinking sencha loose leaf green tea offers numerous health benefits, making it a great addition to your daily routine:

✔ Rich in antioxidants – Supports immune function and reduces oxidative stress.

✔ Boosts metabolism – Helps with weight management and fat burning.

✔ Enhances focus & energy – Provides a natural caffeine boost without the crash.

✔ Promotes relaxation – Contains L-theanine, which helps reduce stress while keeping you alert.

✔ Good for digestion – Supports gut health and improves digestion.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the art of brewing Japanese sencha loose leaf tea is simple when you follow the right techniques. By using high-quality sencha, the correct water temperature, and the perfect steeping time, you’ll enjoy a smooth, refreshing, and umami-rich cup every time.

Whether you're looking for a calming daily tea ritual or an antioxidant-rich green tea for health benefits, sencha tea is a fantastic choice. Try different varieties, experiment with multiple infusions, and enjoy the delicate complexity of this classic Japanese green tea.

Ready to experience the best sencha green tea? Explore our collection of premium Japanese loose leaf teas at Porter Hill Tea Company today!