Misako Kashima, Kobo Tea, Japan
Q: When did you first discover kombucha?
When I was working at farmer’s market in Oakland, CA. My friend was selling her “Tamascal Kombucha” so I tried it and I’m hooked.
Q: Why did you start your own Kombucha company?
First, I wanted to try making with Japanese tea, and now I moved back to Japan because I want to make Japanese Kombucha made with best tea in Japan. Wazuka town where I live is known as the origin of Japanese tea, also famous for Uji matcha. I love tea and I love Kombucha, so I feel like I better start introducing kombucha to Japan. (kombucha is so unknown here, one reason we have traditional kelp tea named Kombucha in Japan, so people misunderstand.)
Q: What is your favorite flavor of kombucha? (a brand that is not your own)?
I like Oregon Kombucha’s (ginger pear), I like Brew Dr., and I like GT’s multi green.
Q: What is your former/current other life or career?
I’ve been a massage therapist and Yoga teacher in CA for years. Originally I didn’t know about kombucha until I saw my yoga friend drinking everyday, and I’m still teaching yoga in Japan.
Q: What is a saying that you live by?
Don’t worry, Be happy.