Teas that have higher ratings would be sen-cha and gyokuro . Sen-cha is made from better quality leaves that are picked with greater care, and this particular tea was meant to be savored. Gyokuro is the finest tea available with the leaves being the tender young buds from the finest bushes. The crop of gyokuro is always small and so it is very expensive and highly regarded. Whatever tea is used it must always be appreciated for it's fresh, natural tastes.
Japanese tea is never mixed with lemon, sugar, or milk.
Illustrations and text by Mark Vallen 2001.