Tea Day (Kōcha no Hi)
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November 1st Is "Tea Day"! The Historic Encounter Between the Japanese and Tea
November 1st is "Tea Day" (Kōcha no Hi), a celebration of black tea and its world-captivating aroma. The Japan Tea Association established this anniversary in 1983, based on a historic episode from 1791.
The story centers on Daikokuya Kodayu, a ship captain from Ise (present-day Mie Prefecture). After being shipwrecked and drifting to Russia, he spent about ten years there before he was allowed to return home. In November 1791 he had an audience with Empress Catherine II and is believed to have been invited to a tea party as well. On this basis, the Japan Tea Association regards him as the first Japanese person to drink black tea at a formal tea party abroad.
In other words, November 1st is a romantic day commemorating "the day a Japanese person is said to have first drunk black tea at a formal tea party abroad." As autumn turns to winter, a warm cup of black tea is the perfect way to ease both body and mind.
A Taste of "Hospitality" Approved by a Russian Empress
The black tea Daikokuya Kodayu experienced was a symbol of Russian aristocratic society at the time. This episode shows that tea has always been more than a drink — it's a tool for cultural exchange that crosses borders.
Comparing Black Tea by Region and How to Choose
For anyone wanting to try a new variety on Tea Day, here's a comparison of the major tea-producing regions. Like wine, black tea's flavor varies greatly depending on the climate (terroir) of where it's grown.
Popular Teas by Type: Comparison Table
| Tea Type | Flavor Profile | Recommended Way to Drink | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Darjeeling | Delicate aroma with crisp astringency | Straight | An afternoon refresh |
| Assam | Sweet aroma with rich body | With milk | Breakfast or with cake |
| Earl Grey | Citrusy bergamot aroma | Iced or straight | When you need a change of pace |
| Japanese Black Tea (Wa-kocha) | Subtle sweetness with gentle astringency | Straight | After Japanese sweets or meals |
How to Brew a "Golden Rules" Cup at Home
To get the most out of Tea Day, here are the well-known "golden rules" for brewing a great cup of black tea.
- Use freshly boiled water: Freshly drawn water contains plenty of air, which is said to help the leaves move up and down ("jump") while steeping.
- Warm the pot and cup beforehand: If the temperature drops too much, the tea's flavor compounds won't extract properly.
- Time it precisely: Steep for about 3 to 5 minutes using a timer to reduce bitterness and bring out the full umami.
Twists like chai and fruit tea are also popular — just adding spices or fruit lets you enjoy a café-style cup at home.
Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid
- Squeezing the tea bag hard: This causes a bitter, harsh taste.
- Re-boiling the water: This drives out air, which is said to keep the leaves from "jumping" properly.
In Summary: Spend November 1st with an Elegant Cup of Tea, in Your Favorite Mug
On November 1st, Tea Day, take time to brew a careful cup of black tea while reflecting on the wonder and excitement Daikokuya Kodayu must have felt in Russia.
- Origin: Established in 1983 by the Japan Tea Association, based on Daikokuya Kodayu being invited to a tea party in Russia in 1791.
- Choosing your tea: Darjeeling for straight tea, Assam for milk tea, and so on — choose based on how you plan to drink it.
- How to enjoy it: Japan's homegrown "wa-kocha" black tea is also worth a try.
Black tea contains components such as theanine, which contributes to its savory taste, and polyphenols. Amid a busy day, take a moment to appreciate the "quiet" and "comfort" that a cup of tea can bring.