Marukyu Koyamaen Seasonal New Year Edition Matcha( Obukucha Kinjirushi- Gold Label-大福茶)

Obukucha Kinjirushi- Gold Label (大福茶 - "Good Fortune Tea") by Marukyu Koyamaen is an exclusive New Year limited-edition ceremonial matcha that celebrates over 1,000 years of Japanese tradition— delivers robust, full-bodied velvety texture with exceptionally long, intense, creamy aftertaste. This premium Gold grade sits above the standard Obukucha, offering a lighter, creamier, sweeter experience with pampering body and mild, frothy sweetness that honors over 1,000 years of Japanese New Year tradition with unmatched elegance and sophistication.

The tradition of Obukucha dates back to 951 CE during the reign of Emperor Murakami, when a serious epidemic swept through Kyoto. Buddhist priest Kuya of Rokuharamitsu-ji Temple distributed tea to the suffering people, and miraculously, the epidemic subsided. The emperor himself drank this tea and recovered, establishing the annual custom of drinking "Obukucha"—originally meaning "the tea drunk by the Emperor" (皇服茶), but now written with characters meaning "Great Fortune" (大福茶). Today, Japanese families gather on New Year's Day to share Obukucha together, praying for health, happiness, and good fortune in the year ahead.

Founded in 1704 during the Genroku era, Marukyu Koyamaen honors this sacred tradition with their exclusive matcha blend, characterized by a rich tea with strong, intense flavors that has no bitter or astringent notes. This well-balanced matcha is more temperamental than other blends—requiring careful attention to water temperature (80°C for usucha, 90°C for koicha) as slight variations will change the flavor profile. The result is an exquisite fusion of matcha freshness, mildness, and richness that creates a moment of reverence and celebration, perfect for beginning the new year with intention and gratitude.

A versatile blend designed for a wider audience, suitable for both tea practitioners and those enjoying it casually over the holiday season.

Flavour Profile: 

Gold Grade Luxury: The premium tier above standard Obukucha—lighter, creamier, sweeter, and more indulgent for the ultimate New Year celebration.

Velvety Sweetness & Umami: Immediately greets you with velvety sweetness, followed by deep savory notes reminiscent of toasted nori—a luxurious, memorable first impression.

Robust & Full-Bodied: Particularly creamy with exceptionally long, intense, creamy aftertaste—the body and finish linger beautifully, revealing new dimensions.

Pampering Koicha: When made as thick tea, distinguished by its indulgent, pampering body that envelops the palate in luxury.

Mild, Frothy Usucha: As thin tea, delivers mild, frothy, sweet creaminess that's gentle and approachable while maintaining complexity.

Gentle & Easygoing: More gentle and easygoing compared to robust blends like Choan—perfect for those seeking refined elegance without intensity.

Mild Flavor, Sweet Aroma: Characterized by refreshingly sweet aroma and mild flavor profile that transitions from brief astringency to prolonged sweetness.