Myanmar family in Japan shares edible tea cultureーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• Edible Tea Culture: The practice of consuming tea leaves as food, not just a beverage.
• Lapito: A traditional Myanmarese dish made from steamed tea leaves served with various toppings.
• Iset: A type of tea produced in the Mie Prefecture of Japan.
• Community Integration: The process of a foreigner becoming accepted and contributing to a local community.

Myanmarese Edible Tea Culture in Japan

This video highlights the unique Myanmarese tradition of eating tea, a practice being shared in Japan by Naomi, a Myanmarese national who relocated to Mie Prefecture 26 years ago. She and her family moved to Odai town two years prior to pursue her dream of cultivating Myanmarese edible tea in Japan.

Naomi's Dream and Relocation

Naomi chose Odai town for its abundant nature and peaceful atmosphere, describing it as a place with mountains, trees, greenery, rivers, and a serene environment. This idyllic setting was crucial for her ambition to establish a tea cultivation that supports her cultural heritage.

Guest House and Cultural Exchange

The family opened a guest house in Mie, which has become a hub for cultural exchange. On a fall day, four guests, both Japanese and Myanmarese, participated in activities such as tea leaf picking. One guest, on their second visit with friends, expressed enthusiasm for sharing the experience.

Lapito Preparation and Taste

Using freshly picked tea leaves, Naomi prepared Lapito, a beloved national dish of Myanmar. The process involves steaming the tea leaves, which are then served with toppings like fried beans and chili. Guests described the dish as "truly delicious" and noted its perfect pairing with chili.

Community Acceptance and Integration

Initially, Naomi harbored concerns about being accepted as a foreigner. However, these fears were quickly dispelled by the warm reception from the local community. Her neighbor, who grows mati plants with Naomi's assistance, expressed gratitude for her presence, stating that Naomi has "invigorated the community" and that they consider her "like a daughter." The guest house's popularity, with bookings consistently full, further attests to her successful integration.

Spreading Edible Tea Culture

Naomi's primary goal is to introduce Japanese people to the concept that tea can be enjoyed as food, not just a drink. She is dedicated to sharing Myanmar's rich culinary culture "one bite at a time," hoping to encourage wider adoption and appreciation of edible tea.

Conclusion

The story of Naomi and her family in Odai town exemplifies successful cultural transplantation and community integration. By pursuing her passion for Myanmarese edible tea, Naomi is not only fulfilling a personal dream but also enriching the local Japanese community and fostering cross-cultural understanding through a unique culinary experience.