Hosen (宝泉) is Ippodo's welcoming everyday sencha, selected for balance, freshness and versatility. The company recommends this blend the starting point for anyone exploring their sencha collection. Traditionally served to guests at the Ippodo flagship in Kyoto, it represents the house style: approachable, refined and quietly expressive without excessive bitterness or astringency. 

The dry leaf carries a fresh fragrance reminiscent of spring greens and young shoots, lifted by delicate sweet hay and steamed vegetables. In the cup, Hosen is medium-bodied with a clean, rounded mouthfeel. Gentle sweetness arrives first before giving way to fresh vegetal notes, subtle umami and a crisp finish that refreshes rather than lingers heavily.

Unlike deeper, more concentrated sencha or gyokuro, Hosen is designed for effortless daily drinking. Its balance makes it equally suited as a morning tea, an afternoon refreshment or alongside a meal, where its clean finish complements rather than competes with food.

Weight | 150g 
Origin | Kyoto prefecture, Japan

Best Suited For

• Daily drinking
• First-time Japanese green tea drinkers
• Morning and afternoon tea
• Pairing with meals
• Those seeking a balanced, refreshing sencha
• cold brewed (optional fresh fruit infusion of mango, lychee, nectarines or peaches)

Enjoyed With

• Grilled fish, sushi
• Steamed dumplings
• Rice bowls
• Simple noodle dishes
• Avocado toast
• Light salads
• Cake and biscuits

Our tasting notes, recommended uses and food pairings reflect our findings, developed through repeated preparation and evaluation under consistent conditions. Flavour and aroma may vary depending on preparation, ingredients, storage and individual palate.