Hachi Ju Hachiya Tea (88th Day Tea)

In traditional Japanese calendar the first day of Spring is called Risshun.
The 88th day after Risshun is called Hachijuhachiya (literally 88th night).
This day is special because it is the beginning of year's first tea picking.
Hachijuhachiya slightly varies from year to year but usually occcurs in early May.

"First flush" of young leaves is considered by tea experts as the absoulute
finest in quality, freshness and flavour. It is also believed that such tea will keep you from paralysis.

This first tea is important for traders, farmers and consumers.