Taiwanese tea in making big inroads in Japan, and the latest example is TEA18, a new tea and tapioca shop in Shibuya Marui.

TEA18, which opened July 27, gets its name from the type of tea leaves it uses, known in Japanese as Taicha 18 Go. These leaves were actually cultivated by Japanese engineers in Taiwan during the period of Japanese rule.

The tea from the leaves is known for its ruby color, lack of bitterness and refreshing, mint-like scent. Each cup is made-to-order, so the tea is guaranteed to be fresh and fragrant.

Flavors include Honey Oolong, Orange Sweet, and Rose Lemon. TEA18 also carries milk tea, cream tea, fruit tea, and frappes.

For more details, visit PR TIMES (Japanese only)