Marukyu Koyamaen is a renowned Japanese tea producer with a history dating back to 1704. Located in Uji, Kyoto —a region celebrated for its superior matcha—Marukyu Koyamaen is esteemed for its exceptional quality and traditional craftsmanship. Their matcha is favored by tea ceremony schools such as Urasenke and is cherished by connoisseurs worldwide.
From Ceremony to Cup: The Rich Culture Behind Matcha
A Journey Through Time: The History and Origins of Matcha
Matcha, a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves, finds its roots in China during the Tang Dynasty. However, it was in Japan where matcha culture flourished, particularly during the 12th century when the Zen monk Eisai introduced it as part of Buddhist meditation practices. Over time, it became central to the Japanese tea ceremony (chado or sado), a highly ritualized practice emphasizing harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.
The Philosophy of Matcha: Harmony, Balance, and Mindfulness
Matcha culture is deeply philosophical. Influenced by Zen Buddhism, it promotes mindfulness and the beauty of imperfection (wabi-sabi). Drinking matcha is often viewed not just as a beverage choice but as a moment to pause, reflect, and connect—whether with oneself, nature, or others.
Why Uji Matcha is of Superior Quality
Uji Matcha stands out for its exceptional quality, thanks to its unique geographical conditions, traditional cultivation methods, and meticulous production process.
- Ideal Growing Conditions
Uji, located in Kyoto, Japan, offers a perfect climate and mineral-rich soil for cultivating tea. The region’s pure water and temperate climate contribute to matcha with vibrant color and rich aroma. - Traditional Cultivation Methods
Uji matcha is grown using shade cultivation, where tea plants are shielded from direct sunlight for 20-30 days before harvest. This enhances the tea’s amino acids, giving it a sweet and smooth flavor. - Selective Harvesting
Only the youngest, most tender leaves from the top of the tea plants are chosen, ensuring a higher concentration of flavor and nutrients in the matcha. - Precise Production Process
The leaves are steamed, dried, and ground into a fine powder using traditional stone mills. This results in a matcha that is both smooth and rich in flavor. - Rich Cultural Heritage
Uji’s long history of tea cultivation (over 800 years) and its connection to Japanese tea ceremonies further contribute to the authenticity and prestige of Uji matcha.
Uji Matcha offers not only superior taste but also a deep cultural legacy, making it a top choice for matcha lovers worldwide.
Uji Matcha’s Premier Representative Brand: Marukyu Koyamaen
A Time-Honored Name, Crafting Legacy for Centuries
Founded in the Genroku era (late 1600s) in Uji, Kyoto—the heartland of Japanese tea—Marukyu Koyamaen is one of Japan’s most esteemed and historic matcha producers. With a legacy that spans over 300 years, this family-run company has been dedicated to preserving the art of traditional tea-making while embracing innovation in quality and production.
Marukyu Koyamaen is renowned for supplying matcha to the major Japanese tea ceremony schools, including Urasenke, Omotesenke, and Mushanokoji-senke. Their unmatched expertise, handed down through generations, is reflected in every product—marked by rich umami, vibrant green color, and a smooth, refined texture. Each tin of Marukyu Koyamaen matcha embodies centuries of cultivation wisdom, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for the tea culture it continues to uphold.
The Planting and Production Journey of Matcha: From Tea Garden to Tea Bowl
The allure of matcha lies not only in its flavor and nutritional richness but also in the intricate craftsmanship behind its cultivation and production. Exceptional matcha begins with Japan’s unique (shade-grown) method. Approximately 20 to 30 days before harvest, tea gardens are shaded with black nets or straw, blocking direct sunlight. This slows photosynthesis, allowing chlorophyll and L-theanine to accumulate—a process that deepens the leaves’ vibrant green hue and imparts a sweet, umami-rich taste with a lingering finish.
Only the tenderest top one or two buds are handpicked to ensure supreme quality. These leaves then undergo steaming (to preserve their color and freshness), drying, and the removal of veins and stems, resulting in (tencha). The tencha is then ground into a fine powder using traditional granite stone mills—a painstakingly slow process that yields just 40 grams of matcha per hour to prevent heat from compromising its aroma and vivid color.
More than a mere ingredient, matcha is revered as an art form. Every step embodies the artisan’s dedication, carrying forward centuries of tea-making wisdom. This is the soul of matcha: a harmonious blend of nature’s gifts and human mastery.
Matcha for Every Taste: A Look at the Diverse Uji Matcha
Marukyu Koyamaen Matcha
Unkaku Matcha
Unkaku Matcha has a soft, smooth finish. It also has a sweet aroma and a rich flavor. A lot of people love it, and it’s one of the most popular Matchas from Marukyu Koyamaen. You can use it to make both thick and thin teas.
Attention: Due to an unexpected surge in demand, Marukyu Koyamaen Matcha informs that the availability of all matcha products, regardless of size or packaging, will be limited going forward. As a result, some products may be temporarily out of stock.
Marukyu Koyamaen Aoarashi
Matcha Aoarashigot a really refreshing flavour. Great for making thin tea.
It’s also great for mixing with milk or cream to make desserts.
Attention: Due to an unexpected surge in demand, Marukyu Koyamaen Matcha regrets to inform you that the availability of all matcha products, regardless of size or packaging, will be limited going forward. As a result, some products may be temporarily out of stock.
Marukyu Koyamaen Chigi No Shiro Matcha
Chigi No Shiro Matcha got a refreshing smell and a flavor that’s perfectly balanced between being a little sharp and having that savory umami taste. Great for making thin tea.
Attention: Due to an unexpected surge in demand, Marukyu Koyamaen Matcha regrets to inform you that the availability of all matcha products, regardless of size or packaging, will be limited going forward. As a result, some products may be temporarily out of stock.
Discover More Uji Matcha
Unveiling the Depths of Matcha: Exploring Flavor and Aroma
High-quality matcha from Marukyu Koyamaen boasts a vibrant light green color and a rich, sweet aroma. When prepared correctly, it yields a smooth, creamy foam with a balanced taste that is both refreshing and satisfying. Proper storage is essential to maintain its color and flavor; it should be kept in a dark, cool, and dry place, sealed off from air exposure.
Authentic premium matcha reveals its excellence through every detail—from its appearance and aroma to its taste and texture:
Color | Vibrant Emerald
High-quality matcha boasts a brilliant emerald-green hue, often with a slight radiance, signaling fresh, top-tier tea leaves. Discoloration (yellowish or dull green) typically indicates lower quality or improper storage.
Aroma | Fresh & Elegant
A superior matcha exudes a natural, inviting fragrance—think notes of seaweed, fresh grass, or toasted soybeans. Off-putting bitterness or stale scents may signal oxidation or poor craftsmanship.
Taste | Smooth & Umami-Rich
Good matcha delivers a velvety texture with a delicate balance of natural sweetness and umami, leaving minimal astringency. Inferior varieties often taste harsh, bitter, or chalky.
Texture | Silken Powder
The finest matcha powder feels like baby talc—ultra-fine and luxurious. It dissolves effortlessly in water, creating a frothy layer with micro-fine bubbles. Graininess or clumping reveals a low-grade product.
Coffee VS Matcha
| Feature | Coffee | Matcha |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Boost | Quick energy spike, followed by crash | Steady, sustained energy |
| Antioxidants | Fewer antioxidants | High in catechins, more than green tea |
| Mental Clarity | May cause jitters or anxiety | Focus with calmness |
| Metabolism & Fat Burning | Short-term metabolism boost | Supports metabolism |
| Stress Relief | May increase stress | Reduces stress and anxiety |
| Nutrient Profile | Lacks vitamins and minerals | Rich in vitamins and minerals |
How to Make Matcha?
You’ll Need:
Matcha powder – 1 to 2 grams (about ½ to 1 teaspoon)
Hot water – 60–70 ml (2–2.5 oz), at ~160–175°F (70–80°C)
Chawan (tea bowl) – or any small bowl
Chasen (bamboo whisk) – or a milk frother as a substitute
Chashaku (bamboo scoop) – or a regular teaspoon
Fine mesh sifter (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Sift the Matcha
Place 1–2 scoops (½–1 tsp) of matcha powder into the bowl through a fine sieve.
Sifting helps prevent clumps and ensures a smooth drink.
Add Water
Pour in 60–70 ml (2–2.5 oz) of hot water (not boiling—ideally 160–175°F or 70–80°C).
Whisk
Using a chasen, whisk briskly in a “W” or “M” motion (not circular) for 15–20 seconds until a frothy layer forms on the surface.
If you don’t have a chasen, a small electric milk frother works well too.
Enjoy
Drink it straight from the bowl, savoring its natural umami and bitterness.
The Calm and Beauty of the Matcha Tea Ritual
If you’ve never tried making matcha at home, now’s the perfect time to start. Matcha isn’t just a drink—it’s a moment. A little pocket of peace in a busy day. You will love how it slows you down, helps you breathe, and reminds you to be fully present. And honestly? It’s also just really fun and beautiful to make.
What Is a Matcha Tea Ceremony?
At its heart, the matcha tea ceremony is all about mindfulness. Originating in Japan, it blends philosophy, art, and tradition in one quiet, beautiful ritual. Everything—from the way you hold the whisk to the way light hits the bowl—feels intentional. It’s like meditation, but with a delicious, frothy green drink at the end.
Matcha Tea Set
Making matcha with a real tea set just feels different. There’s something grounding about it. The ceramic bowls are handcrafted, and no two are the same. The glazes swirl like galaxies, and the shapes feel perfect in your hands. It’s functional, yes—but also beautiful.
Here’s what making matcha need to use:
A matcha bowl that’s just the right size for whisking up a creamy, foamy cup.
A chasen (bamboo whisk) that blends the matcha powder into water effortlessly.
A chasen stand to help it dry properly and last longer.
And of course, good-quality matcha powder—bright green, smooth, and full of flavor.
A Small Ritual With Big Impact
Even when busy, matcha only takes a few minutes, but it makes the whole day feel better. There’s something about watching the powder dissolve, the whisk dancing in the bowl, the soft scent rising up—it’s like time slows down.
Changing up tea bowls with the seasons. A pale blue one for spring, something deeper and darker for winter. It’s a small detail, but it makes the whole thing feel fresh and intentional.
Tips for a Cozy Matcha Moment
Use warm (not boiling) water to preserve the delicate flavor.
Sift your matcha before whisking—this prevents clumps and makes it super smooth.
Try lighting a candle or playing soft music while you make your tea. It turns the process into a little ritual you can look forward to.
A Small Ritual With Big Impact
Even when busy, matcha only takes a few minutes, but it makes the whole day feel better. There’s something about watching the powder dissolve, the whisk dancing in the bowl, the soft scent rising up—it’s like time slows down.
Changing up tea bowls with the seasons. A pale blue one for spring, something deeper and darker for winter. It’s a small detail, but it makes the whole thing feel fresh and intentional.
Tips for a Cozy Matcha Moment
Use warm (not boiling) water to preserve the delicate flavor.
Sift your matcha before whisking—this prevents clumps and makes it super smooth.
Try lighting a candle or playing soft music while you make your tea. It turns the process into a little ritual you can look forward to.
Japanese Tea Ceremony Utensils
Matcha Gift Set 6 Pcs
Upgrade your tea time with this awesome all-in-one matcha set! It’s got a handmade bamboo whisk (100-prong with a green string), an 18-oz ceramic matcha bowl, a matching whisk holder, a bamboo scoop, a sifter, and a tea cloth.
It comes in a super pretty ‘Unfurl’ gift box, making it ideal for gifting or treating yourself. Made from top-notch, food-safe, and eco-friendly stuff, this set has all you need for a super smooth, authentic matcha moment.
Light Green Ceramic Matcha Set
This all-in-one matcha set rocks! It’s got 30g of ceremonial-grade matcha, a handmade Japanese ceramic bowl, a bamboo whisk, and a ceramic whisk holder.
Whether you’re new to matcha or a pro, it’s got all you need to whip up a smooth, frothy cup. It’s stylish and practical, and a great gift for any tea lover!
Green Flowers Matcha Set
Check out this handmade matcha starter kit! It’s got a traditional matcha bowl (chawan), bamboo whisk (chasen), and a whisk holder, all crafted by skilled artisans.
It’s food-safe, no lead or cadmium, perfect for daily use or as a nice gift. Just hand wash it. The bowl’s super versatile – use it for desserts, snacks, or side dishes too. It’s pretty and practical!
Matcha Whisk
This Deluxe Matcha Whisk is made from eco-friendly purple golden bamboo. It’s got 100 prongs to whip up perfect froth every time. Artisans handcraft it, so it’s durable for both thick and thin matcha. Easy to clean, and comes with a case to keep its shape. Great for daily use or as a gift!
Ceramic Handmade Triangle Matcha Cup
Elevate your daily routine with the Aprikalife Japanese Pottery Matcha Mug—crafted from non-toxic ceramic with a sleek conical shape and vintage-modern charm. This 200ml mug is perfect for Matcha, tea, desserts, or even small plants. Durable, dishwasher-safe, and beautifully gift-boxed, it’s a stylish, versatile piece for any home or a thoughtful gift for any occasion.
Matcha Bowl and Holder Navy Blue Set
This handcrafted Matcha Set’s got a 16 oz ceramic bowl and a solid whisk holder. They make whisking smooth and comfy. Made from high-quality, food-safe ceramic, both are microwave-safe. Use ’em for matcha, houjicha, or snacks and desserts. It’s a great gift for any tea lover!
It’s food-safe, no lead or cadmium, perfect for daily use or as a nice gift. Just hand wash it. The bowl’s super versatile – use it for desserts, snacks, or side dishes too. It’s pretty and practical!
If you are intolerant to caffeine….
We also have Caffeine-Free & Low Caffeine Tea
Delicious Ways to Cook with Matcha: From Lattes to Cakes
Matcha Latte
Ice Cream
Matcha Cake
Matcha Muffins
Why Uji Matcha Reigns Supreme: The Secret Behind Japan’s Finest Green Tea
Tucked near Kyoto’s ancient temples, Uji tells a centuries-old story in every green leaf. Here, mist-covered hills cradle tea farms where farmers nurture crops with generational traditions. In spring, they shade delicate bushes to enhance flavor and color. By summer, skilled hands harvest only the finest buds. In mills, leaves are ground into a fine powder that dissolves like liquid history. Uji’s gift is matcha: a drink carrying the legacy of emperors and artisans, and the quiet beauty of its land.
Frequently Asked Questions
Matcha is made from shade-grown leaves that are ground into powder, while regular green tea is steeped from whole or cut leaves. Matcha has a richer flavor, more antioxidants, and provides a longer-lasting energy boost.
Good quality matcha tastes smooth, slightly sweet, and rich in umami, with a pleasant grassy undertone. Lower-quality matcha can taste bitter or astringent.
Matcha contains about 60–70 mg of caffeine per teaspoon (2g)—more than regular green tea, but less than a cup of coffee. Its caffeine is released slowly, thanks to L-theanine, promoting calm, focused energy.
- Ceremonial-grade matcha is high quality, used for drinking, with a smooth, delicate taste.
- Culinary-grade is more robust and slightly bitter, ideal for cooking or baking.
Yes, for most people. One to two servings a day is generally safe. However, those sensitive to caffeine or with certain medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider.
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