Kukicha is a Japanese blend of stems not yet lignified, Japanese kuki, with Sencha tea leaves. Karigane is a sort of Kukicha produced from stems and stalks discarded in the production of Gyokuro.

Since the stems have fewer ingredients than the tea leaves, Kukicha is of a mild flavour and also very low in caffeine. This makes it ideal for drinking in the evening and also for children (e.g. Kukicha blended with juices).