Kimchee embodies the soul of Korea,green tea serves the same role here.Green tea has been part of Japan's culture ever since it was introduced from China in the 9th century A.D.like many other words that represent especially important concepts to Japanese honorific prefix o is bestowed on it(o-cha).Of course,more types of "green" tea than encompassed by the English word,including ryoku-cha for the traditional light green drink that's most familiar to everyone,darker mat-cha made from tea powder,other varieties such as roasted hoji-cha or genmai-cha with toasted rice in it.One thing I love about Japan are green tea vending machines which dispense green tea for free,often found at hot springs or "parking areas" along the freeway. Green tea is very healthy,studies suggest it can improve cognitive function,reduce cavities and keep more serious diseases away,rightly or wrongly,Japanese attribute much of their famous longevity to the drink.Qunli.