Fermented Japanese Tea “Trinitea" – A Japanese Black Tea Brand Born in the Serene Satoyama of Shirakawa Town

When people think of Japanese tea, green tea is often the first thing that comes to mind. However, in recent years, Japanese black tea made from tea leaves grown and processed in Japan—has been quietly gaining popularity among tea enthusiasts.
Both green tea and black tea come from the same tea leaves, but the key difference lies in fermentation. Japanese black tea is made by fermenting the tea leaves, while green tea is left unfermented. This process gives Japanese black tea a distinct character that sets it apart from foreign black teas.
Although flavors vary depending on the tea variety, Japanese black tea is generally known for its mild taste, low astringency, and refreshing aftertaste, making it an appealing choice for those looking for a smoother, more delicate black tea experience.

Although not widely known, Japan has been producing black tea since the 1870s, even exporting it overseas. As global and domestic demand for black tea increased, Japanese black tea production flourished.
In 1971, Japan lifted restrictions on black tea imports, causing domestic production to decline. Despite this setback, tea growers continued to experiment and improve tea varieties. Their persistence led to the development of Benifuki in 1995—the first Japanese tea cultivar specifically bred for black tea. Today, Benifuki remains one of the most commonly used varieties for Japanese black tea.
The introduction of Benifuki gradually reignited domestic interest in Japanese black tea, paving the way for its recent surge in popularity. It’s no exaggeration to say that the Japanese black tea boom would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of tea producers who continued refining their craft, even during challenging times.

Among the tea leaves used for Japanese black tea, one that deserves special attention is Shirakawa Tea. Grown in Shirakawa Town, Kamo District, Gifu Prefecture, this tea has a history of over 400 years.
With 87% of its land covered by forests, Shirakawa Town is a region blessed with pristine natural surroundings, including five pure rivers such as the Hida River, Shirakawa, and Kurokawa. The town’s sloped terrain is ideal for tea cultivation, while the temperature differences between day and night, frequent mist, and rich red soil contribute to producing high-quality tea leaves.
The Japanese black tea produced in Shirakawa Town primarily uses the green tea cultivar Yabukita, known for its fragrant aroma, distinctive taste, and refreshing aftertaste. With a production volume making up only about 1% of Japan’s total tea output, Shirakawa Tea is a rare and highly sought-after variety.

Crafted from the rare Shirakawa Tea, the Japanese black tea brand "Fermented Japanese Tea Trinitea" is known for its delicate balance of mild astringency and gentle sweetness. The tea's rich and unique aroma unfolds the moment it touches the palate, leaving a refreshingly clean aftertaste.
Due to the careful selection of Shirakawa Tea for production, its annual output is limited to just 300 kg, making it an exceptionally rare tea.
The name Trinitea is derived from "Trinity," symbolizing the three essential elements that bring the tea to life—the pristine environment that nurtures Shirakawa Tea, the time-honored craftsmanship of its producers, and the tea enthusiasts who appreciate and enjoy Japanese black tea. This harmonious connection completes the essence of Trinitea.
If you’re interested in Japanese black tea, this brand is definitely worth trying.

The allure of Shirakawa Town, where Fermented Japanese Tea Trinitea is produced, extends far beyond its renowned Shirakawa Tea. The town’s breathtaking landscape, with majestic mountains and sprawling tea fields, offers a quintessential satoyama (countryside) experience unique to Japan—far from the bustling urban centers.
Located in Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa Town is about a three-hour train ride from Shirakawa-go, one of Japan’s most famous sightseeing spots, and less than an hour from Gero Onsen, a renowned hot spring destination.
If you’re visiting Gero Onsen, why not take a detour to Shirakawa Town and immerse yourself in its serene rural beauty?
Let’s take a closer look at some of the town’s most captivating highlights.

With this round-up you’ve got the insider’s scoop behind Japanese black tea, Shirakawa Tea, and Fermented Japanese Tea Trinitea, along with the rich attractions of Shirakawa Town.
If you’re curious about Japanese black tea, a newly buzzworthy player in Japan’s tea scene, keep an eye out for Fermented Japanese Tea Trinitea.
Additionally, Shirakawa Town is conveniently located near Takayama and Gero Onsen, two of Gifu’s most popular travel destinations, making it a great stop on your journey.
Here, you can experience a side of Japan beyond the cities, immersing yourself in deep-rooted traditions, rural landscapes, and the authentic satoyama lifestyle—offering a truly unique and enriching travel experience.