Japan In Melbourne

Welcome, Chabatake-kun! ITO EN established their own qualification system in 1994, aiming to promote awareness about tea and tea culture both inside and outside the company. At the moment, there are three levels of tea tasters, with level 3 being the easiest. To be qualified as a level 3 tea taster, candidates have to pass the tea screening exam and a written exam that consists of 100 questions.

In tea screening, the candidate will first examine the shape and aroma of dried tea leaves, and then assess the colour, aroma and taste when hot water is added. These five criteria might seem like the standard process of making a cup of tea but, when it comes to the tea tasting exam, the candidate will be examined on whether s/he is able to make comments and differentiate between the three different grades of tea correctly.

As for the written exam, there will be 100 questions on 10 topics including the history, origins and health benefits of tea. The candidate will also have to know the right way to make tea, just like what Uncle Matchame taught you before. It's tough because even if you make a small mistake and miswrite the kanji (Chinese characters used in Japanese) you will fail!!

When it comes to the level 1 and 2 tea taster exam, you will also be assessed on your knowledge of black and oolong tea as well.

In other words, each and every tea taster at ITO EN is a true tea specialist who has studied very hard to pass the difficult exam. These tea specialists are actively involved in seminars and events to promote tea to everyone.

If you ever meet an ITO EN staff with "tea taster" written on his/her business card, feel free to ask any questions about tea. The tea specialist will be happy to answer your questions!