tea ceremony

: Matcha: Japan’s Bright Green Tea of Tradition and Mindfulness

Matcha is not just a drink — it is a symbol of Japanese hospitality, mindfulness, and refined beauty. Its deep green color, rich flavor, and elegant whisking ritual have made it beloved both in Japan and around the world. What Is Matcha? Matcha is a type of green tea made from shade-grown tea leaves that are steamed, dried, and ground into a fine powder. Unlike regular tea, where leaves are steeped and removed, matcha is whisked and consumed whole, delivering a concentrated taste and nutrients. The result is a vibrant, slightly bitter flavor balanced with natural sweetness and ...

: The Culture of Green Tea in Japan: From Shincha Season to Everyday Hospitality

Few drinks capture the heart of Japanese daily life as beautifully as green tea — called ocha (お茶). It’s more than just a beverage; it’s a quiet ritual that reflects respect, mindfulness, and connection. From the first flush of shincha (“new tea”) in spring to the humble cup shared with guests, green tea accompanies every season and emotion of life in Japan. Shincha: The Taste of a New Season Every year in early May, tea farmers across Japan begin harvesting the year’s first young tea leaves — known as shincha. This tea is prized for its fresh, grassy aroma ...