The "Yagen" Hurbal Coffee Experience

Koka-city

Private Workshop

ーUse a traditional "Yagen"—the same tool once used by ninjas to grind medicine—to create and enjoy your own unique blend of herbal coffee.

"The "Yagen" is a traditional apothecary mortar once used by Koka Ninja to finely grind medicinal herbs. In this unique experience, you will use this authentic tool to hand-grind coffee beans, mastering the traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Once the beans are ground, blend them with medicinal herbs to create your own ""Ninja Coffee"" and enjoy it fresh via pour-over drip. Take a moment to relax at Jigen-ji Temple, a site deeply connected to the Koka Ninja. With its charming thatched roof and serene atmosphere, it is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful break and a taste of history.

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1. Logic of the Yagen

Encounter the Tools of Shinobi Medicine
Ninja were masters of self-care, blending their own medicines to maintain peak condition during infiltration and intelligence missions. At the heart of this practice was the ""Yagen,"" a boat-shaped mortar with a disc-shaped wheel. In this step, you will learn about the history and structure of the Yagen, and how ninja rationally transformed mountain herbs into potent remedies. Simply holding this tool will transport you back through the centuries.
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2. Art of Grinding

Manually Milling Coffee and Herbs
First, place the fragrant coffee beans into the Yagen, followed by carefully selected medicinal herbs. The unique motion of stabilizing the vessel with your feet and shifting your body weight to roll the wheel back and forth is a true ninja discipline. By grinding the ingredients manually, you minimize frictional heat, allowing the aromas and medicinal properties to be extracted to their fullest. Experience a moment of spiritual concentration as you grind in the rhythmic silence.
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3. Fusion of Nourishment

Brewing in Shigaraki Ware
The freshly ground coffee and herbs are transferred into a ""Shigaraki-yaki"" pot—a traditional ceramic from Shiga Prefecture. The warm, rustic texture of the Shigaraki clay resonates with the practical and stoic spirit of the ninja. As you pour hot water, the deep richness of the coffee merges with the wild, earthy scent of the herbs, giving birth to a new ""wellness brew."" Watch the rising steam and wait patiently as the flavors infuse.
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4. Shinobi’s Repose

Savoring a Unique Herbal Blend
Finally, pour your creation into a Shigaraki-yaki cup that fits perfectly in your hand. Just as ninja once recharged their energy between missions, take a moment to slowly savor the medicinal herb coffee you blended yourself. The complex flavors unfolding on your palate are the direct result of your own handiwork. Conclude your experience with a commemorative photo against a scenic backdrop. Take home the memory of this ""Shinobi’s Rest"" that restores both soul and body.