[Volunteering for the Tea Harvest at Saito Tea Farm]

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to join the tea harvest as a volunteer at Saito Tea Farm, located in the historic Honyama region of Shizuoka.

While harvesting tea leaves by hand amidst such lush nature was an unforgettable experience, what truly left the deepest impression on me was discovering the heartfelt, vital story behind why Saito Tea Farm remains fiercely dedicated to organic, pesticide-free tea farming.

[From the Mountain Peak: A Cycle of Water and Life]

Saito Tea Farm is situated at the very top of the mountain. While this high elevation provides abundant sunlight and fresh winds, it also carries a profound environmental responsibility: whatever is used at the top inevitably flows down to the lower slopes and surrounding rivers.

If pesticides were used at this highest point, they would wash down the mountain with the rain and seep into the rivers below. Mr. Saito’s core reason for adhering strictly to organic farming goes far beyond simply making delicious tea—it is fundamentally about protecting the mountain itself.

[A Defining Moment: When the River Changed Color]

This unwavering belief stems from a painful personal experience.

Years ago, during a time when pesticides were still used on the farm, Mr. Saito witnessed the runoff discoloring the moss and plant life in the local river. In that moment, he felt a deep realization: "We in primary industries rely entirely on nature to sustain our livelihoods. We must never be the ones to destroy it with our own hands."

[A Commitment to Live in Harmony with Nature]

Cultivating tea without pesticides is never an easy path. Controlling pests and managing weeds requires an unimaginable amount of time, labor, and patience.

Even so, Mr. Saito chooses to prioritize the protection of the natural world over pure efficiency or profit, remaining wholeheartedly dedicated to crafting exceptional tea. His deep reverence for nature and unshakeable resolve toward tea making resonated with me profoundly.

The tea harvested during this volunteer experience is filled with Mr. Saito’s gentle, loving devotion to the land. I hope that through every cup, you can feel the quiet strength and story of the mountain that protects it.