If you stay in Japan during summer, you’ll quickly notice something interesting: instead of soda or iced coffee, many people are drinking a simple brown-colored tea.
This drink is called 麦茶 (mugicha), and it’s a staple in Japanese households.
But why is it so popular—especially during the hottest months?
The answer lies in a mix of culture, practicality, and everyday life.
- What Is Barley Tea? (Mugicha Explained)
- Why Is Barley Tea So Popular in Summer?
- A Brief History of Barley Tea in Japan
- The Hidden Reason: It’s a “Home Drink”
- Health Benefits of Barley Tea
- How to Make Barley Tea at Home (Super Easy)
- Best Barley Tea Bags to Try (Beginner-Friendly)
- Don’t Forget the Pitcher (This Changes Everything)
- Can You Try Barley Tea Outside Japan?
- Final Thoughts about Barley tea
What Is Barley Tea? (Mugicha Explained)
Barley tea is made from roasted barley grains and has a mild, slightly nutty flavor.
It’s:
- Caffeine-free
- Refreshing
- Usually served cold
In Japan, mugicha isn’t considered a “special drink.”
It’s something people drink daily—just like water.
When it comes to summer drinks in Japan, nothing beats mugicha. Honestly, I can’t imagine a Japanese summer without it!
Why Is Barley Tea So Popular in Summer?
There are a few simple reasons why mugicha is everywhere in Japan during summer:
- No caffeine → safe for kids
- Light and refreshing → perfect for hot weather
- Affordable → easy to drink every day
- Simple to make → just add water or hot water
But the biggest reason?
👉 It’s part of everyday life.
A Brief History of Barley Tea in Japan
Barley tea has been enjoyed in Japan since at least the 江戸時代 (Edo Jidai), when it became popular among common people as an affordable summer drink.
Before air conditioning, it was a simple way to stay cool and hydrated during Japan’s hot and humid summers.
Even today, many families keep a pitcher of mugicha in the fridge—just like people did generations ago.
The Hidden Reason: It’s a “Home Drink”
In many countries, cold drinks often mean soda or juice.
In Japan, it’s different.
Open almost any fridge in summer, and you’ll find a large pitcher of cold mugicha.
Kids grow up drinking it.
Parents serve it without thinking.
It becomes a habit.
And habits are powerful.
Now that I think about it, that habit hasn’t really changed—even now, I still find myself relying on my mom for mugicha.
Health Benefits of Barley Tea
Mugicha is also a smart alternative to sugary drinks.
- Naturally hydrating
- Contains antioxidants
- Gentle on the stomach
- No sugar, no caffeine
It’s not marketed as a “super drink”—but that’s exactly why people trust it.
I’ve actually been wanting to try homemade mugicha, so I’m planning to grow my own barley soon.
How to Make Barley Tea at Home (Super Easy)
Cold Brew Method (Most Popular in Japan)
- Add a barley tea bag to a pitcher
- Pour in cold water
- Let it sit in the fridge for 2–4 hours
That’s it.
This is the easiest way to make cold-brew mugicha. You can also boil it in a kettle for a stronger flavor. Cold mugicha is perfect for summer, but I also love it hot and rich!
Best Barley Tea Bags to Try (Beginner-Friendly)
If you’re new to 麦茶 (Mugicha), tea bags are the easiest way to start.
Look for:
- 100% barley
- No additives
- Large, family-size packs
Popular Japanese brands like Ito En or Kawahara are known for their smooth, roasted flavor.
💡 Tip: Cold brew gives the cleanest, most refreshing taste.
Don’t Forget the Pitcher (This Changes Everything)
Here’s something many beginners overlook:
👉 Mugicha is meant to be ready anytime.
That’s why Japanese households use large cold-water pitchers.
Benefits:
- Always have cold tea ready
- Saves time (make once, drink all day)
- Feels like a true “Japanese summer” experience
Once you try this, it becomes part of your daily routine.
Can You Try Barley Tea Outside Japan?
Absolutely.
Barley tea bags are easy to find online, and it’s one of the simplest Japanese drinks to recreate at home.
The taste is:
- Mild
- Slightly roasted
- Not bitter
Even people who don’t usually drink tea often enjoy it.
I’ve been bringing mugicha in my water bottle since kindergarten. In elementary school, I used to ask my mom to add lots of ice so it would stay nice and cold all day.
Final Thoughts about Barley tea
Barley tea isn’t just popular in Japan because of its taste or health benefits.
It’s popular because it fits perfectly into everyday life.
Simple. Refreshing. Always there.
If you’re curious about Japanese culture, starting with a glass of cold mugicha might be one of the easiest—and most refreshing—ways to experience it.
If you are interested in Japan, you may love this game!
Let’s play!
Yes! Let’s play!
Comments