The Japanese tea ceremony: Origin and tradition 🍵

Hello, this is Val from Kumiko Matcha,

I am often asked how to successfully prepare matcha tea, whether it is essential to use a traditional bamboo whisk, or how to recognise the quality of matcha.

That's why today, I'd like to share with you some of my thoughts on what "ceremonial grade matcha" is, and suggest a way to make tasting your daily matcha a ritual that reflects who you are and allows you to enjoy the moment in complete serenity.

Matcha and ceremony, my advice in video

In this video, I share my ideas for improving your matcha experience:

I also talk about what ceremonial grade matcha is and why none of our matcha teas bear this name.

Join me for this special moment of tasting and sharing that I filmed in the wild on an island in Thailand.

Enjoy the video!

Origins and history of the tea ceremony

In Japan, the tea ceremony is an ancient and highly codified art. It takes place in a dedicated room, the "chashitsu" (茶室, tea room), imbued with Zen aesthetics. The host serves matcha accompanied by Japanese confectionery called wagashi. No detail is left to chance when serving guests, which is why it takes many years of practice to master.

The history of the tea ceremony dates back several centuries and is intertwined with Zen Buddhism. Introduced to Japan by Chinese monks, tea was quickly adopted as a meditative drink. Matcha, a refined ground green tea, became a central element of this ritual practice. The tea ceremony has developed into a unique, refined art form deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

This close connection to Zen Buddhism allows practitioners to find a state of mindfulness, where every action is performed with attention and respect. It is more than just preparing tea; it is a path to inner tranquility and spiritual connection.

Evolution over the centuries

Over the centuries, the Japanese tea ceremony has evolved, incorporating diverse influences and perfecting its techniques. From simple monastery gatherings, it has become a complex celebration of Japanese culture, combining architecture, gardening, ceramics, and calligraphy. This evolution reflects the importance placed on every detail, ensuring a holistic and immersive experience.

Today, the tea ceremony continues to be an essential part of modern Japanese society, while remaining true to its ancient roots. It embodies the values of peace, respect, and harmony, advocated by the sages of the past and adapted to contemporary needs.

Why don't I use the term "ceremonial grade matcha"?

When you visit the Kumiko Matcha website, you may be surprised not to find ceremonial grade matcha as you would normally view it.

In fact, outside of Japan, the term "ceremonial grade matcha" is not regulated, meaning that anyone can legally give this title to a matcha tea.

As the label "ceremonial grade matcha" is overused, it becomes generic and loses its meaning.

That's why I prefer to talk about organic premium matcha, ultra-premium organic matcha, hyper-premium organic matcha, or even highlight the name of the cultivar or producer behind the matcha we sell.

Which matcha tea should you use for your ceremony?

Apart from culinary matcha, all the organic matcha I offer is suitable for tea ceremonies.

Each matcha has its own unique characteristics, aromatic notes, and history. They can therefore all, in their own way, add interest to your ceremony.

Depending on the type of tea you want to prepare, usucha or thin tea, or the more traditional koicha, thick tea, the ideal tea may also be more or less strong, aromatic...

The importance of ceramic utensils

In the tea ceremony, utensils are not just tools but symbols of the deep connection between man and nature. Each piece, often handmade by artisans, carries with it a part of history and tradition. Using these objects on a daily basis enriches the tea drinking experience, making it even more special and meaningful.

For environmentally conscious enthusiasts of wellbeing, choosing quality utensils made in Japan also reflects a commitment to planet-friendly craftsmanship. The minimalism and elegance of ceramic utensils add a touch of aesthetics and serenity to your moments of relaxation, reminding you of the essential values of simplicity and naturalness.

How can you incorporate the tea ceremony into your daily life?

Although the tea ritual in Japan is complex and time-consuming to perform on a daily basis, I found beauty in it and an example for realising my own personal ceremony, capable of adding a spiritual and meditative dimension to the consumption of matcha.

Whether you are alone or with others, the most important thing is to create a beautiful moment and an enjoyable culinary experience.

What is your intention?

• Would you like to make this ritual a moment of relaxation on your own, or offer a shared experience?
• Where would you like to prepare your tea? Would you like to showcase a room in your home, or enjoy a moment surrounded by nature?
• What utensils and what matcha do you want to use? What is their history? Which artisan made them? From which harvest and which tea plant do the tea leaves come?

What is your state of consciousness?

What goes through my mind when I prepare my matcha?

It is interesting to approach the preparation of matcha tea as a form of meditation: take the time to prepare your matcha tea mindfully, with focus on your movements.

It's also a multisensory experience: I like to take the time to touch my tea bowl, to feel its texture. To smell the matcha green tea powder, then the aroma released when the tea comes into contact with hot water. The sound produced by the bamboo whisk rubbing against the bowl to create a beautiful froth. Admiring the colour of the liquor, the vibrant green of a high-quality matcha.

Also take more time to view, feel, and listen to the sounds of your environment to appreciate the present moment.

And finally, drink the precious tea, the result of mixing the fine green powder with hot water, and appreciate its umami, its freshness, and its pleasant velvety texture...

What is the difference between different types of matcha? Tasting and comparing

Another option is to taste several matcha teas in succession (preferably in small quantities) to detect their similarities and differences.

Appreciate what each one has to offer in terms of flavours, aromas, and textures, and find perhaps the best matcha for you.

You can also try realising tasting notes to describe the taste and sensations you experience: a difficult exercise at first, but also a very interesting one!

Simplified steps for a first Japanese tea ceremony

For the best possible introduction to the Japanese tea ceremony, follow these simple steps:

1. Choose high quality ingredients, starting with authentic matcha.
2. Arrange your utensils in a clean and peaceful environment.
3. Use about half a teaspoon of matcha per cup.
4. Add a small quantity of hot water (70-80°C) to the matcha and whisk vigorously with a bamboo whisk until there is froth.
5. Savour every sip, fully appreciating the unique taste and aroma of matcha.

So even as a beginner, you can already feel the soothing and revitalizing benefits of this ancient art.

Thank you for being part of the community 🙏💚🍵

- Val de Kumiko Matcha 🍵

>>> Discover my entire range of organic matcha teas by clicking here