Seigen Chaso

The first infusion brings out the aroma; by around the third, the flavour of the leaves comes through. At Seigen Chaso, tea is meant to be enjoyed over several infusions, adding hot water as you go rather than finishing it in a single cup. If you are new to the experience, you can ask the staff to show you how to brew it. One visitor had the first infusion prepared in tea ware suited to the leaves, then tried brewing the following infusions themselves. Hot water is topped up, so there is no need to rush as the tea changes with each infusion.

Some visitors mention dried fruit and salted beans served alongside the tea. One person who visited on a hot day was particularly taken with the fruit’s sweet-tart, refreshing flavour. It makes a welcome pairing when tea alone feels a little too light. Choices include Jin Xuan oolong, Eight Treasures tea, Yunnan black tea and pu-erh. Some visitors have enjoyed the aroma of osmanthus oolong, while another savoured the first infusion of Alishan Jin Xuan oolong over ice. Whether you are in the mood for floral or fruity notes or want to focus on the tea leaves themselves, there are options to suit.