It is unquestionably recognized as the star of Japanese green teas. Gyokuro is a special type of green tea shaded from the sun for 20 days with specially made mats which prevents the L-Theanine from turning into catechin so the tea tastes mild and sweet, has rich Umami and strong flavor without astringency. Gyokuro means "precious dew" in Japanese. This tea is characterized by a bright, deep green color from the cup, a sweet flavor and taste, very low astringency, and a rich, round aftertaste. Gyokuro Shiro Uwajima has all the qualities of the greatest Gyokuro produced in Japan.