Hojicha, a roasted Japanese green tea, generally contains a lower caffeine level than other green teas due to the roasting process, which reduces the caffeine content. A typical cup (8 oz) of hojicha can be expected to contain between 3-25 milligrams of caffeine. This amount can vary based on several factors, including the specific cultivar of tea leaves, growing conditions, roasting method, and brewing time.
This moderate caffeine content makes hojicha an appealing choice for those sensitive to caffeine or seeking a calming evening beverage. It offers the pleasant ritual and potential health benefits associated with tea consumption without the jitters or sleep disruptions that higher caffeine levels can induce. Historically, hojicha was developed in Kyoto, Japan in the 1920s and quickly gained popularity due to its unique roasted flavor profile and gentle stimulating effects.