Japanese Barley Tea (Mugicha) – Benefits, Brewing Guide, and Cultural Significance

Japanese Barley Tea (Mugicha) – Benefits, Brewing Guide, and Cultural Significance

Figure: A glass of chilled mugicha (Japanese barley tea), a popular caffeine-free drink enjoyed especially during hot summers in Japan. Mugicha is a roasted barley infusion with a toasty, nutty flavor and zero caffeine, making it a refreshing beverage for all ages (Barley tea - Wikipedia) (Unexpected Benefits Of Drinking Barley Tea).

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What is Mugicha?

Mugicha (麦茶), or Japanese barley tea, is a roasted-grain herbal tea made from barley kernels. It is a staple across East Asia (known as boricha in Korea and dàmài chá in China) and is especially popular in Japan during the summer months (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea) (Barley tea - Wikipedia). Unlike green or black tea, mugicha contains no caffeine, so it can be enjoyed any time of day without jitters (Unexpected Benefits Of Drinking Barley Tea). Brewed mugicha has a light amber-brown color and a toasty, slightly bitter flavor with subtle sweetness (Barley tea - Wikipedia). In Japan, you’ll find mugicha served ice-cold as a summertime refreshment in homes, restaurants, and even vending machines (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea) (Barley tea - Wikipedia). Its popularity spans generations – many Japanese people fondly recall chilled mugicha as part of their childhood summer memories (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea).

Health Benefits of Barley Tea (Mugicha)

One reason for mugicha’s enduring popularity is the array of health benefits associated with this humble tea. Japanese barley tea is more than just a tasty caffeine-free drink – it offers several wellness perks without any added sugars or calories. Here are some of the top barley tea benefits:

  • Caffeine-Free Hydration: Mugicha is completely caffeine-free, making it a great alternative to green or black tea (Unexpected Benefits Of Drinking Barley Tea). This means you can enjoy it late in the evening or give it to children without worry. In fact, many Japanese parents even offer cooled mugicha to young kids instead of plain water (Barley Tea: A Popular Beverage That Will Keep You Healthy - Sakuraco). Because it’s essentially an infusion of roasted barley in water, mugicha is very hydrating – in some households it’s consumed in place of water throughout the day (Barley Tea: Nutrition, Benefits, and Side Effects). Plus, it’s virtually calorie-free, so it’s a smart substitute for sugary soft drinks if you’re watching your health or weight.
  • Rich in Antioxidants: Barley tea is packed with antioxidants – compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Studies have identified various antioxidants in mugicha (such as chlorogenic acid, vanillic acid, and quercetin) that may support overall health (Barley Tea: Nutrition, Benefits, and Side Effects) (Barley Tea: Nutrition, Benefits, and Side Effects). Antioxidants are known to help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases over time (Unexpected Benefits Of Drinking Barley Tea). Some research in Japan even suggests that roasted barley tea’s antioxidants (like a compound called alkylpyrazine from the roasting process) can improve blood circulation by making blood less “sticky,” thus promoting better flow (Barley Tea – Drink Your Whole Grains! | The Whole Grains Council). While more research is needed, it’s clear that mugicha provides a beneficial dose of natural antioxidants in every cup (Barley).
  • Aids Digestion and Comforts the Stomach: In traditional East Asian medicine, barley tea has long been used to support digestion. Koreans swear that barley tea is essential for digestion and relieving constipation, and the Japanese similarly tout mugicha’s stomach-soothing properties (Barley Tea – Drink Your Whole Grains! | The Whole Grains Council). Roasted barley has natural antacid effects that can help ease heartburn and indigestion, making a warm mug of mugicha a gentle way to calm an upset stomach (4 Health Benefits of Mugicha Barley Tea | Organic Japanese Tea - Senbird Tea). While scientific evidence is limited, many people find that sipping on barley tea (hot or cold) feels easier on the gut than caffeinated drinks. Its lack of caffeine and mild flavor means it won’t irritate the stomach. In fact, mugicha has even been traditionally given to those suffering from diarrhea or fatigue to help rehydrate and recover (Barley Tea: A Popular Beverage That Will Keep You Healthy - Sakuraco).
  • Supports Oral Health: An unexpected benefit of mugicha is its potential to improve dental health. Barley tea contains polyphenols that can inhibit bacteria in the mouth. A study in 2006 found that people who regularly drank barley tea had less plaque and lower levels of cavity-causing bacteria (such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli) in their saliva than those who didn’t drink it (Barley). These findings suggest that mugicha might help keep your teeth and gums healthy by reducing bacteria and preventing plaque buildup. Additionally, unlike sweet juices or soda, unsweetened barley tea won’t coat your teeth in sugar, making it a tooth-friendly beverage choice.
  • Relaxation and Better Sleep: If you’re looking for a calming bedtime drink, mugicha may fit the bill. Because it’s caffeine-free, it won’t disturb your sleep – in fact, barley tea naturally contains melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle (Barley). The presence of melatonin (along with an amino acid called tryptophan) in barley tea has led to the belief that it can promote better sleep quality (7 reasons why you should start having Barley Tea - Times of India) (Barley Tea Benefits, Nutrients, Side Effects, And How To Prepare It). While more research is needed to confirm its sedative effect, a warm cup of mugicha in the evening can be a soothing ritual to help you unwind. Many also find the roasted, toasty aroma of hot barley tea to be comforting and stress-relieving, making it a nice caffeine-free nightcap.

In summary, mugicha is a healthy beverage choice – it’s caffeine-free, antioxidant-rich, gentle on the stomach, hydrating, and even offers a few unique perks like potential oral health and relaxation benefits. Plus, there are very few risks to drinking it (aside from the fact that barley is not gluten-free), so you can sip with confidence (Unexpected Benefits Of Drinking Barley Tea).

How to Brew Mugicha (Barley Tea)

One of the best things about Japanese barley tea is how easy it is to brew at home. You can prepare mugicha either as a hot comforting tea or a cold refreshing drink, depending on the season and your preference. Barley tea is typically sold in two forms: tea bags (filled with crushed roasted barley) or as loose roasted barley grains. The tea bags are very convenient and are the norm in Japan since the 1980s (Barley tea - Wikipedia), but either form will yield a delicious mugicha. Here is a simple brewing guide for both cold and hot methods:

Cold Brew Mugicha (Iced Barley Tea)

Brewing mugicha cold is perfect for summer and incredibly straightforward – no boiling needed!

  • Add Barley Tea to Water: Place 1 barley tea bag (or about 3–4 tablespoons of roasted barley grains in a mesh pouch) into a pitcher or jar. Pour in about 1 liter (4 cups) of cold water over the tea bag/grains (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea).
  • Steep in the Refrigerator: Let the barley tea steep in the cold water for at least 2 hours in the fridge (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea). For a stronger flavor, you can steep longer (even overnight is fine, as many Japanese families do). The water will gradually turn a light brown tea color as it infuses.
  • Enjoy Chilled: After steeping, remove the tea bag or strain out the barley. Pour the mugicha into glasses over ice (if desired) and enjoy your iced barley tea! It will have a smooth, mellow roasted flavor without any bitterness. You can keep a jug of cold-brewed mugicha in the refrigerator to drink throughout the day – it will stay good for a couple of days (though it’s usually consumed much sooner because it’s so refreshing).

(Cold brewing is convenient because it requires no heat and the tea won’t get over-steeped or bitter. This method is said to bring out more subtle sweet flavors from the roasted barley. Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can cheat by steeping the tea bag in a bit of hot water for a minute to jump-start the infusion, then add cold water and ice to quickly cool it down.)*

Hot Brew Mugicha (Hot or Hot-to-Cold Method)

For a toasty, aromatic cup of hot mugicha, follow these simple steps. You can drink it warm, or brew it hot and then chill it for later.

  • Boil Water: Bring water to a boil – about 1 liter (4 cups) of water for one large tea bag or 3–5 tablespoons of loose roasted barley (Barley) (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea). Using filtered water can yield a cleaner taste.
  • Steep the Barley Tea: Add the mugicha to the hot water. If using a tea bag, simply drop it in. If using loose barley, you can put the grains directly in the pot or use a tea strainer/infuser. Turn off the heat and let the roasted barley steep in the hot water for about 5–10 minutes (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea). (For a very strong brew using loose barley, you could simmer gently for up to 15–20 minutes, but this isn’t necessary for tea bags.) The longer you steep, the bolder and more toasty the flavor will become.
  • Strain and Serve: Remove the tea bag, or strain out the barley kernels if you used loose form. Your mugicha is now ready to drink. Serve it hot in mugs for a cozy, coffee-like tea experience. You can also let it cool to room temperature and then refrigerate it for a smooth iced barley tea later on.
  • (Optional) Reuse or Dilute: Barley tea is quite forgiving. If the brew comes out stronger than you like, just add a bit more water to dilute. Conversely, if you want to extract every bit of goodness, note that tea bags can be steeped twice – many Japanese households will reuse the same mugicha tea bag to make a second pot of tea in the same day (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea). Just steep it a little longer the second time.

Mugicha can be enjoyed plain – traditionally no sweetener is added. Its nutty roasted flavor is pleasant on its own, both hot and cold. However, you can certainly customize your barley tea: try adding a squeeze of lemon, a touch of honey, or mix it with a bit of milk for a creamy version. In South Korea, mugicha is sometimes blended with a pinch of roasted corn tea to add natural sweetness (Barley Tea: Nutrition, Benefits, and Side Effects), but in Japan the pure barley version is most common.

Mugicha in Japanese Culture – How and When It’s Enjoyed

Barley tea isn’t just another beverage in Japan – it’s truly woven into daily life and culture. Here’s a look at how and when mugicha is typically consumed in Japan:

  • The Flavor of Summer: Mugicha is often called “the flavor of summer” in Japan, and for good reason. During Japan’s hot and humid summer months, iced mugicha is ubiquitous. Families keep big pitchers of it in the refrigerator to keep everyone hydrated. It’s common to find a jug of cold barley tea in mom’s kitchen during summer, ready for kids coming in from playing outside (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea). Many people associate the roasted aroma of barley tea with summertime nostalgia, recalling childhood memories of drinking mugicha to cool down (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea). There’s even a specific “Mugicha Day” in Japan (usually around the start of the rainy season in early June) celebrating the new barley harvest and the tradition of brewing fresh barley tea (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea).
  • Everyday Family Drink: Mugicha is not a special-occasion tea but an everyday drink in Japan. Because it’s caffeine-free and sugar-free, everyone from toddlers to the elderly can enjoy it freely. Japanese mothers often give mugicha to babies and young children as a safer alternative to water or juice (Barley Tea: A Popular Beverage That Will Keep You Healthy - Sakuraco). It’s mild and easy on the stomach, so it’s a beverage you can sip all day. Some households literally substitute mugicha for water in the summer – whenever someone is thirsty, they reach for cold barley tea. This constant presence in daily life makes mugicha as ordinary and essential as water in Japan, especially in warmer weather (Barley Tea: Nutrition, Benefits, and Side Effects).
  • At Meals and Restaurants: In Japan, it’s customary to have a drink served with your meal, and mugicha is a popular choice at home and when dining out. Many casual restaurants (like ramen shops, udon noodle restaurants, and family-run eateries) serve chilled mugicha for free to patrons, much like water in Western restaurants (Barley Tea: A Popular Beverage That Will Keep You Healthy - Sakuraco). Its toasty flavor pairs well with food and helps cleanse the palate. In fact, mugicha is often offered in place of water at local family restaurants (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea). Even some fast-food chains in Japan have mugicha on tap. In the winter months, a warm cup of mugicha might be served instead, but cold barley tea is definitely the standard in summer. This practice highlights how ingrained barley tea is in Japanese dining culture – it’s a sign of hospitality and comfort.
  • On the Go – Vending Machines and Bottled Tea: Not only is mugicha home-brewed, it’s also commercially available everywhere in Japan. You can buy bottled barley tea at convenience stores, supermarkets, and from ubiquitous vending machines on almost every corner (Barley tea - Wikipedia). Major beverage brands sell mugicha in plastic bottles, both in large 2L family sizes and single-serving bottles. In summer, vending machines dispense chilled mugicha, and interestingly in colder seasons, some vending machines also offer heated bottled mugicha for a warm drink on the go (Barley tea - Wikipedia). This means that whether you’re at home, at a restaurant, or out and about, mugicha is always within reach in Japan.
  • Year-Round Enjoyment: Although mugicha is most famously a summer cooler, it’s actually enjoyed year-round. Many people drink it hot in the autumn and winter as a comforting alternative to green tea. Its popularity across seasons shows that it’s not just a seasonal fad but a cultural staple. From ancient times (it has been consumed since at least the Heian period over 1,000 years ago (What Is Mugicha? Get To Know Japanese Barley Tea)) to modern times, mugicha has maintained a unique place in Japanese life. It embodies a sense of simplicity, frugality, and natural goodness that resonates in Japanese culture.

In summary, mugicha in Japan is everywhere – from home kitchens to school lunchboxes, from traditional restaurants to vending machines. It’s admired not just for its taste and health benefits, but also as a symbol of Japanese summertime and hospitality.

Try Mugicha – Where to Buy Japanese Barley Tea

Ready to experience this refreshing Japanese barley tea for yourself? Mugicha is easy to find outside of Japan as well. You can check local Asian grocery stores (Japanese or Korean markets often carry barley tea in the tea aisle) or order it online. For a convenient option, you can explore the J&J Market mugicha collection which offers authentic Japanese barley tea products shipped to your door. Many brands are available, from loose roasted barley grains to handy tea bags – a popular one is Ito En’s mugicha, which is sold in tea bag form for easy brewing.

When buying, you might come across packages simply labeled “barley tea” or “mugicha.” They’re generally inexpensive, and a single package can make many liters of tea. Once you have your mugicha, just follow our brewing guide above to make a perfect cup.

Give mugicha a try and discover why it’s beloved in Japan – whether you brew it ice-cold to beat the summer heat or sip it warm for a cozy evening beverage, this caffeine-free, healthy tea might just become your new favorite drink. Its nutty, roasted flavor is unique and satisfying, and knowing the cultural background and health benefits makes it even more enjoyable. So grab some Japanese barley tea, brew it up, and enjoy a taste of Japanese tradition in your own home. Cheers (or as they say in Japanese when raising a cup of tea, itadakimasu – “I gratefully partake”)!

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Jin Mizuno
Founder of JJ Market / Japanese Tea Curator
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008573596683

Jin Mizuno is the founder of JJ Market, an online store dedicated to sharing the finest Japanese teas with the world. Born and raised in Yokohama, Japan, he is passionate about preserving traditional tea culture and curating premium products from renowned tea producers across Japan. With a deep appreciation for quality and authenticity, Jin is committed to delivering not just tea, but a taste of Japan’s heritage to tea lovers everywhere.