{"title":"Zhengshan Xiaozhong \/ Lapsang Souchong","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Lapsang Souchong (LS) is a black tea originally from the Wuyi Mountain in Fujian province. The original LS is produced by the specified tea tree (called Xiao-zhong) which originated from Tongmu village (桐木村 Tongmu Cun), part of Xingcun Town (星村鎮 Xingcun Zhen) in Wuyi City (武夷市 Wuyi Shi) of Fujian Province (福建省).\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"CollectionBody\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cbr\u003e\n    HOJO particularly focuses on the Lapsang Souchong produced from the Tongmu area, located in the national nature preserved park of Wuyi Mountain in Fujian Province. The high mountains, with their thick pine forests and heavy mist, provide the ideal environment for growing top-quality tea. The best Lapsang is produced right here. In addition, we choose organic tea as our standard. Our original Lapsang Souchong has a very distinctive and aromatic flavor with Dried Longan Flavor in addition to a subtle smoky flavor. The secret is due to the drying process using pine wood. The adjustment and control of the fire, called Wen-huo (文火, smoldering fire), is the most critical factor in producing this tea. The real Lapsang Souchong is rare as \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mount_Wuyi\" title=\"Mount Wuyi\"\u003eWuyi\u003c\/a\u003e Mountain is a small area with great demand. There is a significant difference between real LS and widely available LS.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"CollectionLinks__more\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"..\/pages\/about-lapsang-souchong\"\u003eRead more\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"b55","title":"Lapsang Souchong Classic","description":"\u003cp\u003e\n    This traditional Lapsang Souchong (Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong) has a pine smoke flavor. In addition to the smoky aroma, you can also enjoy a sweet, peach-like fruity scent.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Authentic Lapsang Souchong is not made by directly smoking the tea with pine, but by burning pinewood on a low flame.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Please enjoy the pleasant smoky aroma and the sweetness that lingers in the back of your throat.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    It also pairs well as a chaser when drinking Scotch whisky.\n\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HOJO Tea","offers":[{"title":"30g (small bag)","offer_id":44932460544176,"sku":"b55ca","price":1800.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (in can)","offer_id":44932460576944,"sku":"b55cc","price":2900.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"150g (large bag\/50g x 3 bags)","offer_id":44932460609712,"sku":"b55cb","price":8400.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"600g value pack (large bag [50g x 3 bags] x 4 bags)","offer_id":44932460642480,"sku":"b55cv","price":28000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/products\/b55_01.jpg?v=1737905822"},{"product_id":"b54","title":"Lapsang Souchong Qi Zhong","description":"\u003cp\u003e\n    This tea, made from the native Qi Zhong cultivar harvested from a naturally cultivated tea garden at an altitude of 1200m in Tong Mu Guan, has a sweet fruity aroma reminiscent of peaches and mangoes.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    It has no smoky aroma whatsoever, unlike the commonly known Lapsang Souchong.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"letter-spacing: 2px; border-bottom: 1px solid #e8e9eb; padding-bottom: 12px;\"\u003e\n    Qi Zhong, the Native Variety of Tong Mu Guan\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"A man in an orange shirt tilting a large iron pan over dark tea leaves\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/FB6AF4B7-66B0-4F62-AE89-3319095FE896.png\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    The native tea that has been growing wild in Tong Mu Guan, Xingcun Town, Wuyi Shan, is locally called Qi Zhong.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    In Japan, this type of tea is called zairai (native variety), referring to tea grown from seeds.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Tea grown from seeds develops a taproot that grows straight down into the soil like a burdock root, making it easy to absorb minerals and producing a rich, long-lasting aftertaste.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Qi Zhong, the native tea of Tong Mu Guan, is highly valued locally as a raw material for premium Lapsang Souchong.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"A woven basket of freshly plucked green tea leaves\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/4AFAC6C3-5D0F-4DDF-BD8C-C4E71B7DD35D.png\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    We purchase tea directly from farmers and producers who own tea gardens in Tong Mu Guan. The tea garden where we source our Lapsang Souchong Qi Zhong is at an altitude of around 1200m, with tea trees over 100 years old.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    In Tong Mu Guan, the entire village practices natural farming, and the tea garden we source from uses no pesticides or fertilizers.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    As a result, the tea grows very slowly, producing a rich taste with a long-lasting aftertaste.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Green forested mountains and a valley with a road\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/41AB8B5C-0BD1-4074-9EC6-BC76FB76B182.png\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"letter-spacing: 2px; border-bottom: 1px solid #e8e9eb; padding-bottom: 12px;\"\u003e\n    Lapsang Souchong: The Tea that Inspired Earl Grey\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Lapsang Souchong, known as the world's first black tea, is well known among tea enthusiasts.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    In 1662, when King Charles II of England married Princess Catherine of Portugal, she brought her favorite Lapsang Souchong with her, which is said to have sparked the tea boom in England.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"A weathered wooden building beside a mountain stream\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/FFD1A6F0-A911-46BD-AE8B-D1289CA530E1.png\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    There are many interesting stories about Lapsang Souchong. For example, it is said to be the tea that inspired the famous Earl Grey.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Earl Grey was developed when the British, impressed by the sweet fruity aroma of Lapsang Souchong, attempted to replicate that aroma by adding bergamot.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"A man letting a handful of tea leaves fall from his hands\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/0D6F6896-7EA0-40AF-BB76-9F3929BA2B24.png\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"letter-spacing: 2px; border-bottom: 1px solid #e8e9eb; padding-bottom: 12px;\"\u003e\n    The Mystery of the Sweet Fruity Aroma of Lapsang Souchong\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    When reading the many legendary accounts, one cannot help but imagine Lapsang Souchong as a tea with an enchanting, sweet, fruity aroma.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    However, many Lapsang Souchong teas available worldwide have a strong smoky aroma.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Many tea enthusiasts drawn to the stories of Lapsang Souchong may have been puzzled by the gap between the legend and the actual aroma.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Currently, Lapsang Souchong production in Wuyi Shan is divided into 2 types. Teas with a pine smoke aroma are mainly for export, while teas with no smoky aroma and a fruity flavor are made for domestic consumption.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Generally, teas with a smoky aroma are referred to as Traditional Style or Traditional Type, distinguishing them from teas without a smoky flavor.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"A weathered wooden building with firewood stacked beneath\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/63C38EB9-4D8D-4851-A358-4CBD9DF8A390.png\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"A person\u0026#x27;s hands in a large tub of dark tea leaves\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/ABBA64B1-E633-4F0D-B881-3BFB78CC2B17.png\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    The reason why many Lapsang Souchong teas available worldwide lack a fruity flavor is that many inexpensive export teas are made from tea not grown in Tong Mu Guan — known as Wai Shan Xiao Zhong — and these teas carry little fruity flavor.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"letter-spacing: 2px; border-bottom: 1px solid #e8e9eb; padding-bottom: 12px;\"\u003e\n    Further Maturation through Charcoal Roasting\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    The most distinctive feature of the Lapsang Souchong Qi Zhong production method is the charcoal roasting step that follows the standard black tea processes of withering, rolling, enzyme inactivation, and drying.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    This step is shared with Phoenix Dan Cong oolong tea and Wuyi oolong tea. By applying heat slowly at a low temperature, the maturation of the tea is accelerated and the fruity flavor is enhanced.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    This charcoal roasting process is essential for creating the unique fruity flavor of Lapsang Souchong.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    In recent years, many non-roasted or electrically roasted teas have been produced, but we insist on sourcing Lapsang Souchong roasted at low temperatures over charcoal.\n\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HOJO Tea","offers":[{"title":"20g (small bag)","offer_id":44932460282032,"sku":"b54ca","price":2700.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (in can)","offer_id":44932460314800,"sku":"b54cc","price":6500.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"150g (large bag\/50g x 3 bags)","offer_id":44932460347568,"sku":"b54cb","price":19100.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"600g value pack (large bag [50g x 3 bags] x 4 bags)","offer_id":44932460380336,"sku":"b54cv","price":62200.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/products\/b54_01.jpg?v=1737905819"},{"product_id":"b56","title":"Tong Mu Shui Xian Black Tea","description":"\u003cdiv style=\"border: 1px solid #ddd; font-size: .9em; margin-bottom: 30px; padding: 30px 10px 12.5px 10px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n        This is a black tea made in Tong Mu Guan, Wu Yi Shan, Fujian Province, China.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n        The tea garden is situated at an elevation of 1000m, and the tea leaves are harvested from 50-year-old tea trees grown naturally without pesticides or fertilizers.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n        This rare black tea is characterized by its lingering aftertaste and rich, sweet flavor.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    A very rare black tea from the high mountains of Wu Yi. This tea offers an uplifting sweet floral note with a smooth drinking sensation that lingers on the palate for a long time. It has no astringency or bitterness, and its soft taste makes it an ideal daily tea at any time of the day. Without sugar or milk, the tea has a natural sweetness that lingers on the palate.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    This tea is from Tong Mu Guan in Wu Yi Shan, Fujian Province, China. The tea garden is located at 1000m above sea level and is fully sustainable, with tea trees grown without pesticides or fertilizers.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Mist hanging over green forested mountains\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_0236-1-1-1.jpg?v=1789408695\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Tong Mu Shui Xian Black Tea is Made Following the Process of Lapsang Souchong\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    This tea is made from the Shui Xian cultivar following the process of traditional Lapsang Souchong (Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong). Yet, we do not call it Lapsang Souchong because the standard of Lapsang Souchong is to use local tea in Tong Mu. The name Souchong originally refers to the local seed-grown tea in Tong Mu Guan.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Two Types of Lapsang Souchong\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Currently, there are 2 types of Lapsang Souchong in Tong Mu Guan:\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003e1. A well-known type of tea that gives a smoky scent.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003e2. A type that gives a sweet fruity scent and no smoky scent at all, as represented by teas such as Qi Zhong and Xiao Chi Gan (小赤甘).\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Generally, traditional Lapsang Souchong has a smoky scent, and the fruity type is often considered a newly developed version of Lapsang Souchong. But we believe in another history.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Lapsang Souchong is also known as the model for Earl Grey tea. It is said that Earl Grey tea originated from an Englishman who drank Lapsang Souchong in the 1800s, was impressed by its tropical fruit-like scent, and later added bergamot flavor to black tea to imitate it. If traditional Lapsang Souchong were smoky, why wouldn't Earl Grey have become a smoky tea as well?\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Also, in the 1800s, due to the high demand for Lapsang Souchong, Keemun tea was developed following the method of making Lapsang Souchong black tea. If Keemun was made following the process of a smoky Lapsang Souchong, Keemun should also give a smoky scent. However, standard Keemun black tea is not smoky at all.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    These historical accounts may not be 100% accurate, but they suggest that a fruity version of Lapsang Souchong black tea has existed since at least the 1600s.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"White cups of orange tea liquor and brown tea leaves\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_6526.jpg\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    A Very Rare Black Tea\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Shui Xian is a very famous cultivar of Wuyi oolong tea (rock tea). Its popularity comes from its exceptional taste — a strong aftertaste and long-lasting finish. However, the flavor of the Shui Xian cultivar is generally more restrained, and only a highly skilled tea master can manage the process to draw out the flavor. Currently, the Shui Xian cultivar accounts for less than 1% of total tea production in Tong Mu Guan, making it a very rare tea.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Before the 1970s, the Shui Xian cultivar was grown by many farmers. However, many trees were removed afterward for 2 reasons.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Firstly, a professor in Fujian commented that in the relatively cooler climate of Tong Mu Guan, Shui Xian might produce a weaker flavor.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Secondly, before 2000, black tea was not popular in the Chinese domestic market, so prices were low and farmers — especially those in remote areas — struggled to make a living. Many farmers cut down their tea trees and replaced them with more profitable crops, such as bamboo used as raw material for chopsticks and other items.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Higher Level of Fermentation\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Compared to other types of Lapsang Souchong such as Qi Zhong, the Shui Xian cultivar has larger and thicker leaves. As a result, Shui Xian fresh leaves are withered in a thinner layer than other teas, and the fermentation is carried out for a longer time.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Man tossing tea leaves in his hands\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_0244-2.jpg\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Traditional Charcoal Roasting Develops Thick Fruity Flavor\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    In addition to the standard black tea process, Tong Mu Shui Xian and Lapsang Souchong black tea are roasted with charcoal fire.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eProcess of Tong Mu Shui Xian Black Tea\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Fresh tea leaves → Withering → Rolling → Fermentation → Heating to Stop Enzyme → Drying → Charcoal Roasting\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    The purpose of charcoal roasting is to intensify the taste of the tea. The roasting is carried out at a lower temperature over a long period to promote maturation and bring out the fruitiness in the flavor. Once roasted with charcoal, the tea develops a sweet and rich flavor reminiscent of dried fruits. Charcoal roasting is painstaking work — if the temperature is too high, the leaves will be scorched; if too low, the effect is minimal. Constant monitoring and adjustment are essential.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Dark brown black tea leaves in a white bowl\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_6514.jpg\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Some producers bake tea with a hot-air oven, but once tasted, the result is entirely different from tea baked with charcoal fire. Charcoal fire has strong heat permeability and transmits heat to the center of the leaf, whereas hot air heats only the surface, reaching the inner part less effectively. Thanks to charcoal roasting, the tea delivers a clean and clear drinking sensation, with a rich taste that lingers on the palate across many infusions.\n\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HOJO Tea","offers":[{"title":"30g (small bag)","offer_id":44932460019888,"sku":"b56ca","price":2700.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (in can)","offer_id":44932460052656,"sku":"b56cc","price":4300.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"150g (large bag\/50g x 3 bags)","offer_id":44932460085424,"sku":"b56cb","price":12600.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"600g value pack (large bag [50g x 3 bags] x 4 bags)","offer_id":44932460118192,"sku":"b56cv","price":41500.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/products\/IMG_6532.jpg?v=1737905815"},{"product_id":"b57","title":"Feizi Xiao","description":"\u003cp\u003e\n    This tea is made by producers who live in Tongmu. Feizi Xiao is one of the teas in our Lapsang Souchong (Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong) series.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Feizi Xiao: Named after Yang Guifei's Love for Lychee\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Feizi Xiao is a very rare tea even in its production area of Tongmu. Generally, Feizi Xiao is known as a high-grade version of Lapsang Souchong (Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong), alongside Jin Jun Mei.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    However, in Tongmu, there is no specific definition for the name Feizi Xiao. Even under the same name, the characteristics of the tea tend to vary among producers.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    In the case of our producer, this black tea is named Feizi Xiao because of its subtle lychee-like flavor, reminiscent of the famous Yang Guifei's love for lychee.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Thin dark brown tea leaves in a small white dish\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_8673.jpg\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Special Tea Made from Carefully Selected Leaves\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Feizi Xiao is made from tea leaves grown in tea gardens at an altitude of 1000–1200m in Tongmu. The producer meticulously selects the tea garden areas and tea trees to harvest from, and uniquely blends them to achieve the desired flavor and aroma.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    The flavor and aroma of Feizi Xiao can be best understood as a high-grade version of Qizhong. The base flavor is very similar to Qizhong, but with an additional sweet fragrance reminiscent of peaches, longans, tropical fruits, lychee, and honey.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    As befits a high-grade version of Qizhong, the taste of Feizi Xiao is very soft, with a long-lasting aftertaste and rich finish. Among our Lapsang Souchong (Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong) lineup, it is of the highest quality. You can enjoy a deeply satisfying aftertaste that permeates the body.\n\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HOJO Tea","offers":[{"title":"20g (small bag)","offer_id":44932439113904,"sku":"b57ca","price":6600.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (in can)","offer_id":44932439146672,"sku":"b57cc","price":16200.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"150g (large bag\/50g x 3 bags)","offer_id":44932439179440,"sku":"b57cb","price":48100.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false},{"title":"600g value pack (large bag [50g x 3 bags] x 4 bags)","offer_id":44932439212208,"sku":"b57cv","price":155500.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/products\/IMG_8677.jpg?v=1737905536"},{"product_id":"b61","title":"Lapsang Souchong Hua Xiang","description":"\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Pile of dark twisted dried tea leaves\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_8795.jpg\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    This tea is different from the commonly known smoky Lapsang Souchong and has a fruity and floral flavor.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    This product is sourced from pesticide-free tea gardens.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Lapsang Souchong with a Sweet Flavor of Tropical Fruits and No Smoky Flavor\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Lapsang Souchong is well known among tea enthusiasts as the world's oldest black tea.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Traditionally, Lapsang Souchong is dried using pine wood, giving it a distinctive smoky flavor.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    On the other hand, there is a high-grade version of Lapsang Souchong with fruity and floral flavors. Our Lapsang Souchong Qi Zhong, Xiao Chi Gan, Fei Zi Xiao, and Hua Xiang fall into this category.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Orange tea in a white pitcher beside a dish of leaves\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_8803.jpg\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Some consider this fruity and floral style of Lapsang Souchong a more recent development.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    However, others believe that this style has existed for a long time but was interrupted by the Cultural Revolution. Although the exact details are unclear, historical evidence suggests that the fruity style has a long history.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    For example, Earl Grey was created by imitating Lapsang Souchong in the 1800s. If the Lapsang Souchong of that time had a smoky flavor, Earl Grey would not be as it is today.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Similarly, Keemun black tea was created in the 1800s by imitating the Lapsang Souchong production method, yet it has no smoky flavor — further supporting the idea that fruity, floral Lapsang Souchong has long existed.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Black Tea Made from Seed-Grown Tea at High Altitudes\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Lapsang Souchong Hua Xiang, like Qi Zhong, is made from naturally cultivated seed-grown tea from Tong Mu Guan. Seed-grown tea refers to tea grown from seeds. Compared to cutting-grown tea, seed-grown tea develops a deep root system, allowing for better mineral absorption and producing a richer aftertaste.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Seed-grown tea plant with a long taproot beside a cutting-grown plant\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/R1043794-1.jpg\" width=\"630\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The plant on the right in the photo above is seed-grown tea, characterized by its long, straight taproot.\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    The tea garden is located at an altitude of 1100m, under almost the same conditions as the Qi Zhong we carry. However, Lapsang Souchong Hua Xiang has a slightly shorter fermentation time. Like Qi Zhong, the finished tea is roasted at a low temperature over a long period with charcoal, allowing it to mature and develop a floral flavor reminiscent of rose, along with fruity notes of peach, mango, and longan, and a hint of sweet potato.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Clear orange tea in a white cup\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_8812-2.jpg\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HOJO Tea","offers":[{"title":"20g (small bag)","offer_id":44932438982832,"sku":"b61ca","price":2300.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (in can)","offer_id":44932439015600,"sku":"b61cc","price":5400.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"150g (large bag\/50g x 3 bags)","offer_id":44932439048368,"sku":"b61cb","price":15900.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"600g value pack (large bag [50g x 3 bags] x 4 bags)","offer_id":44932439081136,"sku":"b61cv","price":51800.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/products\/IMG_8795-2.jpg?v=1737905534"},{"product_id":"b66","title":"Lapsang Souchong Qi Zhong Classic","description":"\u003cp\u003e\n    Lapsang Souchong comes in 2 main types: one with a smoky flavor from drying over pine wood fires, and another with a sweet, fruity flavor. Although these teas have distinctly different flavors, fruity Lapsang Souchong is generally more expensive and popular among passionate tea enthusiasts in China. It is worth noting, however, that high-quality smoky Lapsang Souchong also exists.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Lapsang Souchong: 2 Main Types – Smoky and Fruity\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    The Lapsang Souchong Qi Zhong Classic is a premium smoky version and is exceptional in flavor. High-grade Lapsang Souchong teas, such as Qi Zhong, Xiao Chi Gan, Fei Zi Xiao, and Jin Jun Mei, are generally known for their fruity flavors and no smoky flavor. We offer 4 varieties of high-quality Lapsang Souchong with sweet, fruity flavors and no smoky flavor: Qi Zhong, Hua Xiang, Fei Zi Xiao, and Xiao Chi Gan.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Amber tea in a white cup beside a cup of dark dry leaves\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_0222_eda39e16-3c5c-4d53-9766-b75d8d1f15c3.jpg?v=1789407626\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    While fruity Lapsang Souchong is delicious, many people also enjoy the smoky version. Each type has its own unique character, and the ability to enjoy both is one of the great appeals of Lapsang Souchong for tea enthusiasts.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Commitment to Tea Leaves, Processing, and Pine Wood\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    We have been selling a product called Lapsang Souchong Traditional Style, and we have now sourced an even higher grade tea, Lapsang Souchong Qi Zhong Classic. This tea is made from a rare cultivar called Qi Zhong, naturally cultivated at an altitude of around 1300m.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    During the withering, fermentation, and drying stages, high-grade teas use heat from burning pine wood.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Locally, this high-grade Lapsang Souchong has no specific name, and producers use different names. We have named our tea Lapsang Souchong Qi Zhong Classic based on the local term Qi Zhong.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cimg alt=\"Heap of dark thin tea leaves in a metal bowl\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_0198-1.jpg\" width=\"630\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n    Giant Pine Trees with a Diameter of 1m\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    One of the critical points in producing Lapsang Souchong is the quality of the pine wood used. The higher the grade of the tea, the older the pine trees required — not just any pine tree will do.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n    Old pine trees grow very slowly and are rich in minerals, producing a long-lasting, refined flavor. Our Lapsang Souchong Qi Zhong Classic uses giant pine trees with a diameter of 1m, delivering a deep, complex smoky flavor that permeates the body.\n\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HOJO Tea","offers":[{"title":"20g (small bag)","offer_id":44932432724144,"sku":"b66ca","price":2700.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"50g (in can)","offer_id":44932432756912,"sku":"b66cc","price":6500.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"150g (large bag\/50g x 3 bags)","offer_id":44932432789680,"sku":"b66cb","price":19100.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"600g value pack (large bag [50g x 3 bags] x 4 bags)","offer_id":44932432822448,"sku":"b66cv","price":62200.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/files\/IMG_0206-3.jpg?v=1737905457"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0526\/0774\/6224\/collections\/IMG_0196.jpg?v=1642696199","url":"https:\/\/hojotea.com\/en\/collections\/lapsang_souchong.oembed","provider":"お茶の専門店HOJO \/ HOJO CO., LTD.","version":"1.0","type":"link"}