Hello, this is Goencha. ^^ This time, we will delve deeper into the charm of matcha! Its charm is not limited to "tea". It is filled with the Japanese sense of beauty, the way of life, and even the state of mind. The spirit of "wabi-sabi" and "ichigo ichie" (one chance encounter) that is embodied in matcha in the tea ceremony. The aroma that rises softly, the vivid green color, the gentle bitterness and mellow flavor, the sound of making tea, and the warmth of the tea bowl... each of these things quietly spread to the five senses. In addition, the health benefits of ingredients such as catechin and theanine, and the healing power that calms the mind are unique to matcha. Recently, new ways to enjoy it, such as lattes and sweets, are becoming more and more popular. We will guide you to the true charm hidden in matcha and the world of modesty that has been cultivated by Japanese culture.
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The profound world of Japanese culture brought to you by matcha
Matcha is packed with Japanese history, a sense of beauty, and the heart-to-heart connection between people. The quiet gestures exchanged in the tea room, the aroma floating up from the tea bowl... one cup of matcha gently leads us into the profound world of Japanese culture.
The history and evolution of matcha in Japan
The history of matcha dates back to the Heian period, when the custom of drinking tea was introduced from China. However, it wasn't until the Kamakura period that matcha was established as a uniquely Japanese culture. The main turning point was when Eisai Zenji, the founder of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism, brought back tea seeds and the etiquette of drinking tea from China and popularized it as something that would be useful in Zen training.
During the Muromachi period, lavish tea gatherings called "cha yoriai" became popular among samurai, and tea became an indispensable part of social occasions. Then, during the Azuchi-Momoyama period, Sen no Rikyu perfected "wabi-cha," elevating the tea ceremony to the level of an art that values spirituality. The aesthetic sense of "wabi-sabi," which Rikyu valued, had a major impact on Japanese culture as a whole thereafter.
During the Edo period, the culture of the tea ceremony spread from the samurai to the townspeople, and various schools were born. Even today, matcha is carefully passed down as a part of Japanese traditional culture, and it has come to fascinate people all over the world.
| era | Main features |
|---|---|
| Kamakura period | The Zen priest Eisai brought tea seeds and the tea-drinking method from China. It spread along with Zen Buddhism and came to be used as medicine. |
| Muromachi period | The tea ceremony spread among the samurai class, and social tea gatherings such as "cha yoriai" (tea gatherings) became popular. Tea in the shoin (study room) developed. |
| Azuchi-Momoyama period | Sen no Rikyu perfected "wabicha" (traditional Japanese tea ceremony), and established the tea ceremony that values simple beauty and spirituality. |
| Edo period | The tea ceremony spread to the common people, and various schools were established. Tea ceremony developed as an art form. |
| present day | It has been passed down as a traditional culture and is loved both in Japan and overseas. New ways to enjoy matcha have also emerged. |
“Wabi-sabi” and “Ichigo Ichie”: The Japanese spirit embodied in matcha
The culture of matcha is strongly influenced by two aesthetic values that run through the core of the Japanese spirit: "wabi-sabi" and "ichigo ichie." It goes beyond just making and tasting tea and is deeply connected to our outlook on life and aesthetic values.
"Wabi-Sabi" - Japanese aesthetic sense found in imperfection
"Wabi-sabi" is a uniquely Japanese aesthetic that finds deep flavor and beauty in simplicity. It is a mind that cherishes the beauty that resides in things that are imperfect, things that have changed over time, and things that remain in their natural state. This spirit is alive in the simple layout of a tea room, the texture of well-used tea utensils, and even a single tea flower that reflects the season. A moment spent quietly facing matcha tea brings not visible richness, but a quiet fulfillment that fills the depths of the heart.
"Ichigo Ichie" - Cherishing irreplaceable moments
"Ichigo ichie" is an important spirit unique to the tea ceremony, which means "this moment may never come around again." The host prepares to welcome the guest with all their heart. The guest also faces the guest honestly, grateful for the sentiment. In this way, the time spent by both parties with sincerity makes the moment special and irreplaceable. Drinking matcha means savoring the place, the atmosphere, and the bond with that person. Try to take in the kindness of a once-in-a-lifetime encounter to the fullest as you feel the deep feelings that are put into a cup of tea.
Sencha Genmaicha with matcha is also recommended! The tea novelty is “Kyoto Gyokuro’s Goencha”
What is Goencha from Kyoto Gyokuro?
" Kyoto Gyokuro no Goencha " is a tea shop that delivers fun tea from Kyoto with the concept of "making tea more fun"! With plans tailored to meet your needs, we make high-quality tea more accessible and exciting to enjoy.
We value the idea that "tea connects people," and we offer many products that are perfect for your daily tea time, as well as gifts for special people and corporate novelties. Especially popular as corporate novelties are products that can be customized with original designs or names !
"Thank you," "Congratulations," "I look forward to working with you in the future!"
Why not convey these feelings through a cup of tea?
Here are some recommended novelties that can convey a message! A special tea
packed with feelings. Create a one-of-a-kind tea with an original Goesatsucha design. Custom order
The profound charm of matcha, experienced with all five senses
Matcha goes beyond the boundaries of a drink; each cup is filled with the uniquely Japanese aesthetic sense and cultural feelings. Enjoy the color with your eyes, savor the flavor with your tongue, surrender your mind to the aroma, listen to the sound of the tea utensils, and feel the warmth of the tea bowl - by tasting it with all five senses, the true charm of matcha will gently reach your heart. Why not visit the gentle and profound world that matcha invites you into?
Taste: A delicate harmony of flavors created by matcha
The greatest attraction of matcha is its profound flavor. The higher the quality of the matcha, the more exquisitely its mellow umami and slight bitterness blend together, providing a rich and relaxing experience with every bite.
The rich flavor and subtle bitterness of high-quality matcha
The mellow flavor of matcha comes from the theanine contained in the tea leaves. Cultivation under cover allows the tea leaves to store plenty of theanine, bringing out the deep flavor. This is then combined with the slight bitterness of catechin to create a complex, deep flavor. The higher the quality of matcha, the less bitter it is, and the soft sweetness you can feel, giving it a rich, lingering aftertaste.
The perfect combination of matcha and Japanese sweets
Pairing matcha with Japanese sweets will allow you to enjoy the charm of matcha even more. The refined sweetness softens the bitterness of matcha and brings out its umami. Enjoying it with seasonal Japanese sweets such as nerikiri, yokan, and monaka will enhance the harmony and depth of the flavor.
Visual: The visual beauty of matcha and its culture
Matcha conveys beauty through the eyes, from its vibrant green color and fine bubbles to the individual steps of preparing it. Every visible step in a cup of matcha embodies the traditions and spirit of Japanese tea ceremony.
Beautiful vibrant green color and bubbles
One of the charms of matcha is its vivid green color. Its deep color, reminiscent of young grass or jade, is proof of carefully grown tea leaves and stone-grounding. The fine bubbles that appear when brewed with a chasen tea whisk also give the tea a smooth mouthfeel and beautiful appearance, and also play an important role in protecting the flavor.
The Artistry of Tea Ceremony - Tea Ceremony Utensils Reveal the Traditional Beauty of Japan -
The act of preparing matcha tea, known as otemae, is a tranquil and beautiful art in which every action has meaning. The tea utensils used, such as the tea bowl, tea whisk, tea scoop, and tea caddy, also highlight the traditional beauty and craftsmanship of Japan. Tea utensils selected to suit the season and taste will enrich the atmosphere of the tea ceremony.
| Types of tea utensils | Characteristics and Roles | Visual appeal |
|---|---|---|
| Tea bowl | A vessel for making and drinking matcha. There are a variety of shapes and materials depending on the season, purpose, and school. | The shape, the color, the expression of the glaze, the warmth of the clay, the individuality of the artist. The beauty of the texture when you hold it in your hand. |
| Chasen (tea whisk) | A tool for whisking matcha. Made from bamboo, there are many different types depending on the number and shape of the bristles. | The delicate beauty of the fine bristles. The supple movement during tea ceremonies and the functional beauty when creating foam. |
| Tea scoop (chashaku) | A tool used to transfer matcha powder from the tea caddy into a tea bowl. They are made of bamboo or ivory, and many of them are elaborately designed. | The natural beauty of the bamboo nodes and the carved curves. Sometimes the pieces are inscribed with names, giving them a narrative feel. |
| Natsume (jujube) | A container for storing matcha powder. It is generally lacquered, and may also be decorated with maki-e or other techniques. | The lustrous shine of lacquer, the intricate decorative beauty of maki-e and raden, and patterns that express the feeling of the season. |
Sense of smell: The aroma of matcha brings healing and relaxation
Matcha's rich aroma gently envelops the sense of smell and brings peace to the soul. From the lush aroma before brewing to the mellow aroma when you take a sip, the ever-changing aroma is also one of the charms of matcha.
The unique, mellow aroma of tencha tea
The aroma of matcha comes from the raw material, tencha tea. The "covered aroma" and "seaweed aroma" that are created by steaming the tea leaves and drying them without rolling them form the deep, mellow aroma that is unique to matcha. This refreshing, deep aroma is accentuated precisely because the tea leaves are grown in a dark area.
The refreshing aroma of freshly brewed matcha
When you make matcha, the steam rises and the refreshing aroma fills the room, calming your mind. The deep aroma goes beyond the sense of smell to soothe your spirit and bring you a moment of peace away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Hearing: Experience the charm of matcha through sound
In the tea ceremony, each sound that resonates in the silence is considered an important part of tasting matcha. The Japanese aesthetic sense of enjoying with all five senses comes to life in that moment.
The whipping sound of a tea whisk
The "shaka shaka" sound created when the chasen touches the tea bowl is an important sound that draws the mind into the world of matcha. It deepens the concentration of the person making the tea and brings quiet peace to the hearts of those who hear it.
The quiet sound of hot water pouring
The whoosh sound of hot water being poured into the teacup is like the whisper of nature. The sound resonates in the silence and brings deep peace to the soul. Even the faint sound of the tea utensils and the hot water touching each other adds richness to the world of matcha.
Touch: Feel the warmth of matcha with your hands
The appeal of matcha goes beyond just looking and tasting. The warmth of the tea bowl in your hand, the simple texture, the smoothness of the fine foam when you put it in your mouth - all these pleasant sensations you feel with your hands, lips, and tongue all enrich the moment you taste matcha.
The texture of the tea bowl and the warmth you feel in your palm
When drinking matcha, the feel of the tea bowl you hold in your hands is also an important element. You can enjoy different sensations depending on the type of bowl, such as the warmth of the clay, the smoothness of the glaze, or the rough texture. The warmth you feel in your palms will gently relax your soul.
Fine foam with a smooth feel
The foam of carefully prepared matcha melts smoothly on your tongue the moment you put it in your mouth, enhancing the mellowness of the flavor. The fineness of the foam affects the flavor, so this technique is highly valued in the tea ceremony. The smooth texture is an important point in enjoying the charm of matcha with all five senses.
The Mind and Body Benefits of Matcha
Matcha is not only known for its beautiful green color and rich flavor, but it has also been known to support mental and physical health since ancient times. Now, through various research, its effects are becoming clear, and it has the power to gently support our health and peace of mind.
Health Benefits The hidden nutritional power of matcha
Since matcha is made by grinding the entire tea leaves into powder, you can take in all of the insoluble ingredients that are difficult to get from regular tea. Therefore, it has a higher nutritional value than other tea leaves.
The effects of catechin and theanine
Matcha contains a variety of functional ingredients that support our health. Among them, the most notable are catechin and theanine.
Catechin is the source of matcha's bitterness and a type of polyphenol with strong antioxidant properties. It is said to suppress active oxygen in the body, helping to prevent cell aging and lifestyle-related diseases. In addition, it is said to have health benefits such as antibacterial properties, lowering cholesterol, and promoting fat burning.
Theanine is an amino acid that creates the mellow flavor of matcha. It is said to produce alpha waves in the brain, which helps to relax and improve concentration. It also works to calm the stimulating effects of the caffeine in matcha, helping to balance a moderate sense of tension with a sense of calm.
In addition to these, matcha is packed with nutrients that are good for the body, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, dietary fiber, minerals such as potassium, calcium, and iron, and chlorophyll. The complex combination of these ingredients makes matcha gently support our mind and body.
| Main nutritional components | Expected effects |
|---|---|
| Catechin | Antioxidant effect, antibacterial effect, cholesterol reduction, promotes body fat burning |
| Theanine | Relaxation, improved concentration, stress relief |
| Vitamin C | Skin beautification effect, immunity improvement, antioxidant effect |
| Vitamin E | Antioxidant effect, promotes blood circulation |
| Fiber | Regulates the intestines and improves constipation |
| chlorophyll | Detox effect, prevents bad breath |
The appeal of matcha, which supports beauty and health
The abundant nutrients contained in matcha are a powerful ally in supporting beauty and health! Among them, catechin and vitamin E have strong antioxidant properties and are expected to have anti-aging effects that prevent skin aging and keep skin youthful. Matcha is also rich in vitamin C, which helps produce collagen, making it essential for creating firm, healthy skin.
In addition, the dietary fiber contained in matcha regulates the intestinal environment, improving bowel movements and detoxifying the body. It is no wonder that matcha is attracting attention as a "drinkable beauty serum" that cultivates beauty from within. Why not incorporate matcha into your daily life and aim for radiant beauty from the inside out?
Mental peace Matcha brings focus and relaxation
The moment you make and enjoy matcha is a rich and satisfying experience. The spirit that has been cultivated through the ancient tea ceremony gently conveys a sense of serenity and positive energy to us who live in the modern world.
Matcha as a Meditative Experience
The act of making matcha is also known as "moving meditation," and focusing on the color, aroma, bubbles, and taste calms the mind and increases concentration. Theanine relaxes the brain, and the moment of engaging with the five senses creates a healing time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and allows you to face yourself.
Matcha brings comfort and calm to your daily life
Especially in our busy days, it is important to create "space" with a cup of matcha. Making matcha and slowly savoring it will help regulate the rhythm of your mind and body and relieve stress. A moment of tranquility and peace will surely give you peace of mind and energy for the next day.
The new appeal of matcha in modern times
Matcha is a symbol of traditional Japanese culture, yet continues to create new value with the times. While treasuring the traditions that have been passed down, it has continued to evolve through innovative ideas and is now loved by people of all ages, both in Japan and overseas.
Matcha culture evolves while preserving tradition
While treasuring the spirit of the tea ceremony, matcha is evolving to fit into modern life. There are more opportunities for everyone to experience matcha culture, not only in teahouses but also in casual tea ceremonies and tourist experiences.
Inheriting tradition and creating new interpretations
While preserving their traditions, each school of tea ceremony is making efforts to make itself more accessible to young people and people from overseas, such as holding tea ceremonies that can be attended in Western clothing and experience programs in English. Thanks to these efforts, matcha is becoming more familiar to more people.
Online and digital dissemination
With the spread of the internet, the dissemination of information about matcha culture has also become more diverse. Online tea ceremony classes and the dissemination of the charms of matcha using social media are bringing matcha culture to people all over the world. In particular, many beautiful photos and videos of matcha are shared on Instagram, which is very popular due to its visual appeal.
A new way to enjoy matcha in cafes and sweets
The appeal of modern matcha is its ease and versatility. Not only can people enjoy traditional matcha as it is, but it has also become part of everyday life in cafes and sweets, making it popular with a wide range of generations.
A variety of matcha drinks and sweets
Matcha has infinite possibilities as an ingredient in drinks and sweets. In particular, matcha lattes and matcha frappes are popular for their vibrant green color and rich flavor, and are standard menu items at many cafes. In addition, a variety of sweets using matcha, such as cakes, ice cream, chocolates, puddings, and parfaits, are appearing, bringing out new charms of matcha.
Goencha's Takoyakushi branch is currently running a tea stand where you can enjoy matcha from Uji, helping you forget the heat of summer. Please come and try the cool and refreshing matcha drink!
Kyoto Matcha Beer
A matcha beer where the rich aroma and bitter taste of Uji matcha is perfectly matched with ice-cold beer. You can enjoy a refreshing feeling that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with carefully selected Uji matcha and carefully crafted using an original recipe. The bitterness of the beer and the bitter taste of the matcha are perfectly balanced, with a surprisingly mellow aftertaste. It is a special taste that you will never forget once you have tried it. (¥1,000 including tax)
Matcha latte
is a deep flavor that harmonizes the rich flavor of matcha with the mellowness of milk. A cold matcha latte is a blissful drink that will help you beat the summer heat. Of course, you can also have it hot. The contrast between the bright green of the matcha and the white of the milk is beautiful, and it looks great on social media. (¥700 including tax)
At Goencha
Takoyakushi, we carefully prepare and serve matcha on the spot. We serve it hot or iced! We cherish creating relaxing moments and building relationships with our customers. Please enjoy the taste of authentic Uji matcha! (¥1,800 including tax / ¥1,500 including tax for takeaway)
Enjoy matcha easily at home
In addition to the taste of specialty shops, there are an increasing number of products that allow you to easily enjoy matcha at home. There are instant matcha, stick-type matcha that you can easily make by simply dissolving it in water or hot water, and handy tea whisk and tea bowl sets, making it easy to incorporate matcha into your daily life. Even busy modern people can now easily enjoy the rich flavor and relaxing effects of matcha.
Japanese matcha attracts attention from around the world
Japanese matcha has come to be highly regarded around the world for its unique flavor, health benefits, and cultural background. As health consciousness grows worldwide, matcha has also been drawing attention as a "superfood," and consumption overseas is now expanding rapidly.
Health consciousness and the matcha boom overseas
In Europe and the US, people who are health and beauty conscious are paying attention to the nutrients contained in matcha, such as catechins and theanine. As it is expected to have antioxidant and relaxing effects, matcha cafes are opening one after another in major cities such as New York, London, and Paris as a healthy alternative to coffee, sparking a matcha boom.
Inbound tourism and matcha experience
For foreign tourists visiting Japan, the matcha experience seems to be an important element in gaining a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. Tea ceremony experience programs are gaining popularity as a rare opportunity to experience the Japanese spirit of "omotenashi" (hospitality) and "wabi-sabi" (wabi-sabi). In addition, there has been an increase in visits to tea-producing regions around Japan, and some people are able to experience the charm of matcha more deeply by learning about its production process and history.
Matcha as a global brand
Matcha is no longer just a drink or food ingredient; it has grown into a global brand that symbolizes "JAPAN." Its presence is apparent in a wide range of fields, with famous chefs from overseas announcing creative dishes that incorporate matcha and fashion brands opening collaborative cafes with a matcha concept. For people all over the world, matcha has become a gateway to experiencing Japanese aesthetics and lifestyle.
summary
We have delved into the profound charm of matcha from various angles, from its historical background to its connection with Japanese spirituality such as "wabi-sabi" and "ichigo ichie," as well as its experience with the five senses, its benefits to the mind and body, and even its diverse spread in modern times. Matcha is not just a drink, it is a culture itself that encapsulates Japan's aesthetic sense and traditions. Its delicate flavor, beautiful manners, and soothing aroma bring rich color to our daily lives and also play a role in balancing our health and spirit. I believe that the charm of matcha, which Japan is proud of, will continue to fascinate many people both at home and abroad!
