jian / Jian

A short walk from Gakugei-daigaku Station, in a residential neighbourhood, jian / Jian is a café stand for craft teas and chai rooted in Chinese herbal medicine. Inside, warm, spicy aromas greet you. The blends are made for everyday drinking, without making the bitterness or astringency often associated with herbal ingredients the focus.

Part of the fun is choosing a drink with the help of a diagnostic chart based on the Five Elements, or smelling the tea leaves at the counter as you consider a blend. The menu includes the signature HUG chai, with a lively spice and a mellow finish; CHEER, a deep-steamed sencha with a hint of spearmint; and SUNNY, a refreshing blend based on Japanese black tea. Drinks are available hot or iced, as well as with soda or mixed with tea.

For something to eat, try a moist butter sandwich cookie, available in flavours such as lemon and cardamom with three-year-aged bancha. The compact, peaceful space has just a few seats, making it a quiet spot for a break. You can also drop in for takeaway or pick up tea syrup and tea bags to enjoy at home.