← Back to Reviews

The 5 Best Barley Teas (Mugicha) for Summer Hydration

Celiac Warning: Not Gluten-Free

Unlike most teas, Barley Tea is made from roasted barley grains, which contain gluten. It is NOT safe for people with Celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance. If you need a gluten-free alternative with a similar taste, try Roasted Buckwheat (Soba) Tea.

In Japan, the sound of wind chimes and the taste of cold Mugicha are the definitive signs of summer. This roasted barley tea is caffeine-free, sugar-free, and incredibly refreshing, with a savory, nutty flavor profile often described as "caffeine-free coffee."

While traditionally kettle-boiled, modern technology has given us "Cold Brew" bags that steep in your fridge pitcher in just 2 hours. We reviewed the top Japanese and Korean brands to help you find the perfect brew.

A glass pitcher of iced barley tea with condensation on it, next to loose barley grains.
Best Overall (Cold Brew)
Ito En Kaori Kaoru Mugicha

1. Ito En Kaori Kaoru Mugicha

★★★★★ (The Standard)

This is the household staple in Japan. Ito En's bags are designed specifically for cold brewing. You simply drop one bag into a 1-liter pitcher of cold water, put it in the fridge, and in 2 hours you have a smooth, aromatic tea. It has a clean, mineral taste without any burnt bitterness.

Pros:
  • Easy Cold Brew (No boiling)
  • Consistent, smooth flavor
  • Very affordable (54 bags/pack)
Cons:
  • Bags are technically plastic-mesh (not compostable)
Check Price on Amazon
Best Organic
Hakubaku Organic Barley Tea

2. Hakubaku Organic Barley Tea

★★★★☆ (Cleanest Taste)

If you are concerned about pesticides, Hakubaku is the way to go. Their barley is 100% USDA Organic. The flavor is slightly lighter and more delicate than Ito En. These bags work for both hot and cold brewing, but they shine when boiled for 5 minutes to release a deep, nutty aroma.

Pros:
  • USDA Organic Certified
  • Unbleached paper tea bags
  • Delicate, sweet finish
Cons:
  • Paper bags can tear if squeezed too hard
Check Price on Amazon
Best Traditional (Loose Grain)
Chung Jung One Organic Roasted Barley

3. Chung Jung One Organic Roasted Barley

★★★★★ (The Purist Choice)

For the deepest flavor, you must boil loose grains. This Korean brand (technically *Boricha*) offers whole, roasted organic barley grains. You boil a handful in a kettle for 10-20 minutes, then strain. The result is a thick, rich, almost soup-like tea that is incredibly satisfying.

Pros:
  • Maximum flavor depth
  • You control the strength
  • Cheaper per cup
Cons:
  • Requires boiling and straining (Labor intensive)
Check Price on Amazon
Best Budget Bulk
Hakubaku Mugicha

4. Hakubaku Mugicha

★★★★☆ (Daily Drinker)

House Foods offers a darker roast profile than Ito En. If you like your barley tea to taste closer to black coffee or dark toast, this is the brand for you. It comes in large bulk packs, making it extremely economical for families who go through a pitcher a day.

Pros:
  • Dark, robust roast
  • Very cheap
  • Great coffee alternative
Cons:
  • Can be bitter if over-steeped
Check Price on Amazon
Best Blend (Corn & Barley)
Dong Suh Corn & Barley Tea

5. Dong Suh Corn & Barley Tea

★★★★☆ (Korean Favorite)

In Korea, it is common to mix Roasted Barley (*Boricha*) with Roasted Corn (*Oksusu-cha*). This blend balances the nutty, bitter barley with the natural sweetness of the corn. It creates a milder, sweeter drink that is often more palatable for children.

Pros:
  • Naturally sweeter profile
  • Complex, popcorn-like aroma
  • Zero sugar added
Cons:
  • Not "pure" Mugicha if you want the classic taste
Check Price on Amazon

TeaTrade participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission if you buy via these links.

Read Next: The Science of Mugicha

Why do Japanese people drink this when it's hot? The science of cooling.

What is Mugicha? The Expert Guide to Barley Tea

Tea & Caffeine: Why You Need a Zero-Caf Option

Herbal Tea Guide: Grains, Roots, and Leaves