I went to “I’m donut?” in Harajuku and tri...

Hello, I’m the writer, Matsu.
This time, I went to the “I’m donut?” store in Harajuku with Tea Prince® and tried their donuts. Along with that, I’ll also introduce some recommended teas to pair with them. This time, I went to the “I’m donut?” store in Harajuku with Tea Prince® and tried their donuts. Along with that, I’ll also introduce some recommended teas to pair with them. 

The store “I’m donut?” is located about a minute’s walk from the Omotesando exit of Harajuku Station. It opened on July 15, 2023, and has gained popularity for its freshly fried donuts. It’s said that you can only enjoy freshly fried donuts at this location and the Omotesando store.
The menu offers 10 varieties of donuts and a selection of drinks. What Tea Prince® ordered here was the “Plain Donut”!

Introducing the products

Plain Donut
(inclusive of tax: 237 yen)

Q: How is the taste of the “Plain Donut”?

A: The appearance resembles a Malasada, but the donut itself has a slightly fragrant aroma and a mildly sweet, chewy texture.I also tried the one with pistachio cream, and the moderate sweetness of the dough combined with the rich flavor of the pistachio cream, creating a delightful combination.

Recommended Tea

Q: If you’re looking to pair this product with a tea, what type of tea would be good?

A: The recommended tea to pair with this product is the “Afternoon Tea Supervised Hot Flavored Apple Earl Grey Tea Unsweetened 480ml” available at FamilyMart.

FamilyMart Afternoon Tea Supervised Hot Flavored Apple Earl Grey Tea Unsweetened　(Image Source)

The nutty flavor of the donut dough complemented the scented Earl Grey tea, creating a synergistic effect! It was a combination that enhanced the flavors of both items.

Perfect match for the donut! exclaimed the Tea Prince® as he repeatedly admired the tea.

How is your impression after visiting the store?

Q: Could you please share your impression after visiting this store?

A: Usually, there’s always a line stretching until around the evening when the donuts are sold out. You have to wait in line for at least 15 minutes to buy them. However, this time, I lined up before opening and was the first in line!
There were about 20 people lined up behind me when the store opened! It’s really popular!

On the TikTok of Tea Prince®, I’ve also posted a video from when I went to “I’m donut? (Harajuku store)”, so be sure to check it out♪

@kouchaouji ちょっといっぱい買いすぎちゃったかな〜〜〜！ 紅茶王子のはらじゅく散歩 〚 i’m donut?原宿店 編 〛 ▶ 今回、王子が購入したおやつ情報🍩 【 i’m donut?原宿店 】 営業時間 10:00～19:00 ※売り切れ次第終了 ◎ I’m donut?(プレーン) 237yen ◎ I’m donut? chocolate(チョコ) 281yen ◎ pistacchio(ピスタチオ) 496yen 💳クレジット・PayPay・現金 📍明治神宮前駅 3番出口すぐ！ 東京都渋谷区神宮前1-14-24 ▶ おやつに合わせる紅茶情報🫖 ◎ ラズベリー×ブルーベリーのブレンド 《乙女の紅茶Kaho》 #紅茶王子のはらじゅく散歩 #紅茶王子メディア #紅茶王子 #ティーデザイナー #imdonut #原宿グルメ ♬ オリジナル楽曲 – 紅茶王子 – 紅茶王子®︎🫖紅茶の専門家

Store Information

Store Name: “I’m donut?” Harajuku Store
Address: 1-14-24 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.
“Access:
・A 1-minute walk from JR Harajuku Station
・Right by Exit 3 of Meiji-jingumae Station on the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line and Chiyoda Line.”
Business Hours: 10:00 AM – Until Sold Out
Closed Days: Irregular Holidays
Instagram： @i.m.donut

I’m donut? Harajuku store is a specialty store for freshly fried, made-to-order donuts that always has a line of customers. The store’s great access, only a 1-minute walk from JR Harajuku Station and also close to Meiji-jingumae Station, is one of its notable features.
Although this store always has a line, the actual waiting time is relatively short, averaging only 15-20 minutes. As the menu is limited and primarily for takeout, customers can make their purchases smoothly. The donuts come in popular flavors such as plain, chocolate, matcha, and pistachio.

Delving into the true face of the Tea Prince! Who is the Tea...

How did he become the Tea Prince®? What sparked his passion for tea? What has been the best part of being the Tea Prince®? Let’s delve into his true face.

Introduction

I’m someone who creates various tea blends with the aim of making it easier for people to incorporate tea into their daily lives. Among them, I create teas named after women in a series called ‘Maiden’s Tea,’ crafted with stories attached. The intention behind adding stories is to not only enhance everyday life with tea but also provide enjoyment as literature.

The Tea Prince® is dedicated to infusing his teas with unique characteristics. His “Maiden’s Tea” series features teas named after distinctive women, each accompanied by a story tailored to match its namesake. For instance, “Eiko” is a blend inspired by the domestic image of a musician, incorporating muscat and soursop to evoke the sensation of charging one’s heart with “Eiko.” The Tea Prince® believes that by infusing tea with stories like this, it makes tea feel more integrated into daily life and enhances the enjoyment of drinking tea.

How did an ordinary young man become the Tea Prince®…?

It all started when a customer from my neighborhood affectionately called me ‘Tea Prince®,’ and before I knew it, the nickname spread to other customers, gradually establishing me as the Tea Prince®. Initially, I felt embarrassed, but I saw it as an opportunity to introduce people to the world of tea. So, I trademarked ‘Tea Prince®’ and began my journey as a tea instructor.

The name “Tea Prince®” was actually a nickname given by one of his fans. Though initially feeling bashful about it, he eventually decided to embrace the name as his brand. He hoped that by using this name, more people would become acquainted with tea. It’s like a fantasy to have such a wonderful opportunity through tea, isn’t it?

Please tell me what got you into tea!

I’m originally from Saitama, but I lived in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, where Western culture flourishes, for about 10 years. It was during this time that I encountered numerous delicious teas, which sparked my interest. As I experimented with various brewing methods to find the most delicious one, I became captivated by tea.

The Tea Prince® attributes his fascination with tea to his time in Kobe. Kobe, known for its Western-influenced culture due to its history as a foreign settlement during the Meiji era, provided the backdrop for his tea journey. While living in Kobe, the Tea Prince® encountered various types and flavors of tea, awakening to the allure of tea. He developed an interest in brewing methods and embarked on a journey of trial and error to discover the art of brewing delicious tea.

From Kanagawa Prefecture (Saitama) to Kobe!?

During my student days, when deciding my future path, I wanted to continue playing baseball in university. After seeing an episode in a magazine where the perennial last-place team became champions, I thought, ‘I want to join a place like this!’ So, I decided to attend university in Kobe, which led to my decision to move to Kobe. Even after entering university, I was dedicated to baseball. However, as I suffered injuries to my hip, shoulder, and elbow, I began to question whether it was enough to focus solely on baseball for all four years of university. I started to feel disheartened. At that time, I wanted to explore interests beyond baseball, so I found myself engrossed in café hopping.

The Tea Prince® explains that the reason for moving to Kobe was for university education. After relocating due to enrollment, although initially dedicated to baseball at university, he gradually found himself engrossed in café hopping.

Why was I captivated by cafe hopping after moving to Hyogo Prefecture, specifically to Kobe (Minato City)?

Back then, in Saitama City’s Chuo Ward where I lived before moving, there were hardly any charming cafes or interior shops, let alone the sea. But in Kobe, such places were abundant as if it were natural. While attending university, I started working part-time at a Western-style restaurant in Kobe, and gradually, exploring cafes and interior shops became a routine for me. Before I knew it, I found myself transitioning from working at a Western-style restaurant to becoming a café staff member.

Kobe, a city brimming with cultures not seen before the move. While working part-time at a Western-style restaurant in Kobe, it became routine to visit cafes and interior shops. Before realizing it, he had become a café staff member.

Please tell the story of how the Tea Prince® became a café staff member.

The people working in Kobe, as well as the café staff members, always seemed wonderful and radiant no matter when I saw them. They exuded an aura of admiration. I too wanted to become a part of this wonderful city of Kobe and contribute in my own way, which is what prompted me to become a café staff member.

The Tea Prince® wanted to become a part of the wonderful city of Kobe and contribute in his own way.

What was the motivation behind opening the shop?

The desire to become the best at something has always lingered in the back of my mind since I was in high school. I had always dreamed of opening my own shop someday, and I wanted everyone to taste the delicious tea that I brewed. That’s why I decided to start the shop.

The Tea Prince® dreamed of owning his own shop. He had a strong desire for many people to taste the tea he brewed. Ten years after falling in love with tea in Kobe, he opened his own shop in Saitama.

Where was the first shop opened?

The first shop was “Tea room…7” (Tea Room Nana) in Saitama City. A café owner suggested that it’s best to open a shop locally, so I decided to open the shop in Saitama City.

The store is located at 4-chome 13-12 Kamifukuoka, Chuo-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture.

About my feelings since starting the shop.

Like how I was captivated by the world of tea, I wanted others to be healed or moved by the tea I brewed and the atmosphere I created. So, I worked tirelessly, wholeheartedly focusing on running the business. Above all, I wanted to be the best in hospitality.

The customers sitting in front of me as I brew tea might be the second encounter in this lifetime, or it might not happen again. With that in mind, I offer hospitality, cherishing each cup. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

For the Tea Prince®, what does “hospitality” mean exactly?

For me, it’s brewing tea. That’s what it boils down to.

The Tea Prince® describes brewing tea as hospitality. In the tea he brews, various sentiments of the Tea Prince® are encapsulated.

Does the Tea Prince® himself drink tea every day?

Hydration for me means drinking tea. That’s why I’m concerned about tea stains on my teeth! Laughs.
Since I’m allergic to alcohol, I enjoy creating mocktails (non-alcoholic cocktails) and other drinks to enhance the drinking experience. Once I arrive at the shop and finish cleaning up, I’ll brew a cup first, according to my mood of the day. It’s a way for me to gauge how I’m feeling.
Actually, I’m quite fickle, but I never get tired of tea! Drinking it doesn’t keep me awake either.

The Tea Prince® describes tea as his primary source of hydration. As he is allergic to alcohol, he creates mocktails to enjoy tea in various ways. Drinking tea is an integral part of his life and something he cannot do without.

What kind of tea do you often drink?

It might be surprising, but I mostly drink flavored teas. Like perfume, I choose them according to my mood at the moment, or I select blended teas to match my meals, or I pick flavors based on preference.
Also, there’s the ‘Maiden Tea Series,’ which consists of original blends with female names and stories attached. For example, today I might feel like having Eriwith Mari and candles, or sometimes I choose based on the story laughs

The Tea Prince® surprisingly prefers flavored teas. While people knowledgeable about tea often avoid flavored teas, I was surprised by the Tea Prince®’s response.

Do you have any recommendations for people who are not familiar with tea?

Anything works! I believe that if you let go of preconceived notions and freely enjoy tea, your life will become richer. If you find yourself thinking, ‘Hmm, I’ve seen this tea somewhere before,’ why not just pick it up and give it a try? As long as you enjoy it, anything goes!

The Tea Prince® encourages trying out any type of tea. He mentioned that by letting go of preconceptions and freely enjoying tea, life can become richer. Perhaps it’s important to approach tea in a more casual manner and simply enjoy it.

The benefits of becoming the Tea Prince®

The best thing about becoming the Tea Prince® is being able to share my passion and knowledge of tea with various people! It brings me joy to have people read or drink the tea I make and the stories I create. Furthermore, it’s enjoyable to have people interview me about various tea-related topics!

He expresses that the greatest joy of being the Tea Prince® is being able to share his passion and knowledge of tea with many people. Being active as the Tea Prince® is not just a pleasure for him, but it has also become his life’s work.

The Role of Components Found in Black Tea, Part 1: Catechins

It is known that the components found in black tea have various effects.
n this article, I would like to provide a detailed explanation of catechins, which are also famous for being found in green tea.

What are Catechins?

Catechins are a type of polyphenol found in green tea and black tea. Polyphenols are components of astringency and color pigments produced by plants and are found in large quantities in tea, as well as in wine and coffee.

The Effects of Catechins

It is said that catechins have various effects. Some people may not associate catechins with the image of tea being good for your health. In this article, we will introduce the effects that are expected of catechins.

◆Antibacterial Effect
It is said that catechins protect against bacteria and viruses, and are good for preventing colds and the flu.
A research group from Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine has recently published a paper stating that catechins found in tea have the effect of “reducing the infectivity” of the novel coronavirus.

Reference:https://www.kpu-m.ac.jp/doc/news/2021/20210615.html

◆Antioxidant Effect
The antioxidant effect, or “kōsanka-sayō,” is expected to remove “kassei sanso” (reactive oxygen species) and prevent oxidation-related aging, cancer, lifestyle diseases, and so on.
To maintain youthfulness and prioritize health, let’s incorporate antioxidants into our diet in moderation.

◆ Blood sugar level suppression effect
Catechins have been observed to inhibit the absorption of sugars and suppress the rise in blood glucose levels.
It is also said to help prevent obesity by suppressing blood sugar levels after meals.

How was it?
Black tea is not only enjoyed for its flavor and aroma but also highly anticipated for maintaining health.However, it’s important to drink it appropriately, as the recommended daily intake for adults is roughly 400mg (about 8 cups).
There are still many components and roles contained in black tea, so please look forward to it!

World’s Top Three Tea – producing regions

World’s top three tea-producing regions,” including China’s “Qimen,” India’s “Darjeeling,” and Sri Lanka’s “Uva.” These teas are highly renowned, and many people are likely familiar with them. However, this time, rather than focusing on the tea itself, I’d like to shed some light on the origins of these “World’s top three tea-producing regions.” What kind of places are Qimen County in Anhui Province, China, the Darjeeling region in northeastern India, and Uva Province in Sri Lanka? Let me share with you.

The birthplace of ‘Qimen’ – Qimen County, Anhui Province, China.

Qimen County, with a population of about 190,000, was historically known as a green tea-producing region. It is said that the production of black tea began around 1875. Besides being renowned for its tea, it is also popular for tourism due to its scenic beauty.

Reference:Tripadvisor https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Tourism-g1826718-Qimen_County_Anhui-Vacations.html

Darjeeling,” the place of origin, located in Northeast India

Darjeeling, situated in the mountainous region of northeastern India, is the world’s largest producer of black tea, both in terms of production and consumption. It boasts vast tea estates, alongside tourist attractions such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site ‘Toy Train,’ a mountain railway, and the third-highest peak in the world, Kanchenjunga. However, due to its location in mountains with elevations exceeding 2,000 meters, it experiences harsh cold weather, making April to May and September to October the best seasons for visiting.

Reference:Tripadvisor https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Tourism-g304557-Darjeeling_Darjeeling_District_West_Bengal-Vacations.html

The birthplace of “Uva” is Uva Province in Sri Lanka.

In the Uva region, located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka’s Ceylon Island, there is a famous tea plantation called Amba Tea Estate. Besides Uva, which is one of the world’s three major black teas, Sri Lanka is home to many renowned teas such as Kandy, Ruhuna, Nuwara Eliya, and Dimbula. As a result, tourism packages often include visits to tea factories and tea estates, making them popular among tea enthusiasts.

Reference: Tripadvisor https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Attractions-g2467811-Activities-Uva_Province.html

When browsing travel websites, it appears that there are many tours that seem to be popular with tea lovers. It seems like it would be a great idea to visit the tea-producing regions if given the opportunity.

A series of 45 questions for the Tea Prince! Unknown aspects...

In the world of tea, the active tea designer known as the Tea Prince. What kind of person Is he? This time, we confronted the Tea Prince with 45 questions and got close to His true nature. His passion for Tea, hobbies, likes, dreams, and goals, and other unknown aspects of his persona come to light!

This is a valuable interview that touches upon the charm of the Prince of Tea. Please enjoy it♪
Q1. What is your real name?
My real name is Hisanori Matsumoto.

Q2. When is your date of birth?
June 20, 1980

Q3. What is your blood type?
Type O. 

Q4.What is your zodiac sign?
It is Gemini.

Q5.Where is your hometown?
My hometown is Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture.

“Hisanori Matsumoto
Born on June 20, 1980
Gemini
Blood type O
Born in Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture”

Q6. What are your measurements for height and shoe size?
“Height: 181 cm
Shoe size: 30-31 cm”

“Actually, the shoe size is over 30 cm.”

Q7. What is your favorite type of tea?
I love all kinds.

Q8. What is your favorite brand?
HUMAN MADE

Q9. What are your hobbies?
Strolling.

Q10. What is your charm point?
SmileThe charm point is my smile.

Q11. What is your favorite food?
Yakiniku, sushi, chocolate, ramen, and natto rice.

“I like eating.
I can easily eat two servings of anything.”

Q12. What food do you dislike?
Shrimp and crab (due to allergies).

Q13. What is your favorite color?
Pink and blue.

Q14. What is your favorite music genre?
Soul、R&B、JAZZ、Asia Pops

Q15. What is your favorite movie genre?
Human drama, science fiction, and romance.

Q16. What is your favorite genre of books?
I don’t have a particular favorite, I read anything.

Q17. What is your favorite sport?
Baseball, MMA (Mixed Martial Arts), Soccer.

Q18. What is your favorite animal?
Dolphin

Q19. What is your favorite flower?
Pink roses before they bloom, nemophila, anemones.

Q20. What is your favorite season?
Summer

Q21. What is your favorite place?
A place with good ventilation.

Q22. What is your favorite scent?
Sandalwood.

Q23. What is your favorite word?
The things you can imagine are all achievable.

Q24. What are your favorite manga or anime?
“””Slam Dunk””, “”H2″”, “”Tea Prince”””

Q25. Who do you respect?
My wife.

Q26. What is your dream for the future?
To travel the world as a tea designer.

Q27.What is your goal?
To become known as “Prince of Tea” when people talk about tea.

“To aspire to be a tea designer
traveling the world and
be recognized as “”Prince of Tea””
when it comes to tea.”

Q28.What is your motto?
Continuing to challenge oneself

Q29. How would you describe your personality in one word?
I am earnest to a fault (stupidly serious)and incapable of lying.

Q30. What are your strengths?
My optimistic outlook.

Q31. What are your weaknesses?
Being overly passionate.

“Overly earnest (stupidly serious),
optimistic, and
sometimes too passionate.”

Q32. What are you good at?
Singing songs.

Q33. What are you not good at?
I’m not good at discussions.

Q34. What are your habits?
Overthinking.

Q35. What is your special skill?
Brewing delicious tea!

“Delicious tea ♡”

Q36. What do you like about yourself?
Enjoying life to the fullest.

Q37. What do you dislike about yourself?
The tendency to overthink.

Q38. What is something unusual about yourself?
I’m not sure (laughs)

Q39. What surprises you about yourself?
The size of my feet.

Q40. What is something about yourself that is hidden?
The thinness of my eyebrows.

“My eyebrows might be thin… perhaps?”

Q41. What is your cute aspect?
The aspect of having eyes like grains of rice.

“I’m often told that my eyes resemble grains of rice.”

Q42. What is your cool aspect?
The act of brewing tea.

“The moment when I’m brewing tea.”

Q43. What makes you happy?
When I’m eating delicious food.

” Looks delicious…”

Q44. What makes you easily angry?
I dislike dishonesty.

Q45. What embarrasses you about yourself?
The times when I occasionally walk with my legs inward.

“When I relax, I tend to walk with my legs inward…”

That concludes the series of 45 questions in this section.