Kyushu’s Kagoshima Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading tea-producing regions, second only to Shizuoka. Among its renowned tea-growing areas, the Kirishima region stands out for its lush tea plantations nestled deep within the mountains.

Phenimax tea is cultivated deep in the mountains of Kirishima, overlooking the distant Sakurajima. Surrounded by powerful, steaming hot springs and dense, majestic forests, this pristine environment nurtures the exceptional quality of our tea.

The rich soil of Kirishima pairs exceptionally well with bone meal. When nourished with organic fertilizer containing bone meal, the roots seem to thrive with vitality, drawing deep nourishment from the earth.

It’s not just the tea plants that benefit. When bone meal is applied to the tea trees, wild birds and other wildlife are naturally drawn to the fields. Occasionally, even snakes make an appearance, startling those tending the crops.

When planting new seedlings, we gently wrap them in organic straw, ensuring a natural and nurturing environment. We do not use plastic mulch.

The reason for this approach is to enhance soil aeration, creating a soft, nutrient-rich environment where beneficial microorganisms flourish. Over time, the organic straw  naturally decomposes, enriching the soil with essential nutrients. Cradled in this airy, well-balanced bed, our tea plants are carefully tended until their first harvest, four years later.

The carefully cultivated tea leaves from this estate are served aboard the Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan’s premier luxury sightseeing train, renowned for its elegance and exclusivity.