Chabacco: a retro way to enjoy Shizuoka tea varieties

Does anyone else find themselves attracted to products simply because of their packaging? I know I do - I'm sure that's part of the reason why companies employ marketing departments! The last time I passed through Shizuoka, we stopped at a highway rest area and there was a vending machine selling packets of what initially looked like cigarettes in retro boxes. I don't smoke, but I thought the style was cool - one of my favorite design types is mid-century modern, and it seemed like the boxes gave off that vibe. It took me a few seconds to realize that no, these weren't in fact cigarette packages, but little boxes of Shizuoka teas served in instant stick form!

Spoiler alert: this is not a cigarette vending machine - it actually dispenses little boxes of Shizuoka tea in individual stick sachets!

I found it hard to resist buying something - they were certainly successful in their quirky marketing campaign - so I settled on a box with an illustration of Mt. Fuji on it which contained fukamushicha, a deep steamed green tea commonly produced in Shizuoka. There were a range of other options though, including hojicha and genmaicha, and each packet was priced at 500 yen. I felt like I was paying for a little piece of art as well as the tea sticks, so overall I didn't think it was a bad deal.

I didn't really know what to expect from the tea - as the packaging was the main thing that attracted me, I had no idea what the taste would be like. I shouldn't have had concerns, though - in line with everything else I've enjoyed from this region of Japan, it was fantastic.

I loved the ease of portability for these, too. If I was still working in an office environment, it would be super easy to pack a stick or two for a morning or afternoon pick me up. I think the design also makes for some really fun souvenirs or gifts if you have a tea lover in your life! I'd repurchase these again without a doubt - I'm enthusiastic to try some of the different varieties on offer.

Fun packaging, easy preparation, and super portable: I'm a new fan of these Chabacco tea boxes!

Even if you won't be passing through Shizuoka any time soon, you can still order Chabacco tea products via the company’s official website at the following link. I know I'll be ordering some more for myself and some loved ones soon!

This post is supported by Shizuoka Green Tea Guide, one of City-Cost's Supporters helping City-Cost bloggers to enjoy life in Japan and engage in new experiences.