Matcha: A Beginners Guide to Japanese Green Tea

Matcha, a cherished Japanese tea, has been enjoyed for centuries. This vibrant green tea is renowned for its distinct flavor and numerous health benefits. It holds a special place in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, reflecting the principles of wabi-sabi—a philosophy that embraces the beauty of simplicity and imperfection.

Beyond being a sought-after drink, matcha powder is also a key ingredient in desserts like matcha ice cream and cakes. In recent years, its striking green color and unique earthy flavor have gained widespread popularity both in Japan and around the world. Dive in to explore matcha and all it has to offer!

So, what exactly is matcha?
Matcha is a type of green tea made by whisking finely ground tea leaves, commonly known as matcha powder, into hot water. It offers the same antioxidants, polyphenols, and catechins found in regular green tea, but in much higher concentrations.

Matcha is made from a tea called tencha, which refers to tea leaves that have been shade-grown to avoid direct sunlight. After harvesting, the leaves are steamed and then carefully dried. The stems and veins are removed, and the leaves are slowly ground into a smooth, fine powder using traditional granite mills.

A key compound in matcha is L-theanine, an amino acid celebrated for promoting calm focus—and for lending matcha its signature smooth, umami flavor. In direct sunlight, theanine converts into catechins, which increase bitterness. Because matcha is grown in the shade, it retains more theanine than other teas, resulting in a deeper, rounder umami taste that makes it especially pleasant to drink.

Japanese Buddhist monk Eisai brought tea seeds and the custom of preparing powdered tea to Japan. In 1211, he wrote Kissa Yojoki(Drinking Tea for Health), an influential text that outlined tea’s benefits and preparation methods. This marked the beginning of matcha culture in Japan.

During the Azuchi–Momoyama period (1573–1603 CE), tea master Sen no Rikyu transformed tea drinking into an art of quiet contemplation. He developed wabi-cha, a style that embraced rustic simplicity, spiritual focus, and deep respect for the moment. This philosophy laid the foundation for chanoyu, the Japanese tea ceremony, where matcha became more than a drink; it became a way of life.

By the Edo period (1603–1868 CE), tea craftsmanship had become more sophisticated. Techniques like steaming, rolling, and drying were refined, setting the standard for modern green tea production.

Today, Japan is celebrated for crafting some of the world’s most exquisite matcha—prized not only for its luminous green hue and savory depth, but also for the sense of calm focus it brings.

Matcha has gained attention not just for its flavor but for what it brings to the body. One of its standout health benefits is its abundance of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage. Unlike steeped green tea, matcha is made by consuming the entire leaf in powdered form—delivering a concentrated dose of antioxidants. One of the most studied is EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), a catechin that’s been linked to metabolic support and fat oxidation.

Matcha is also rich in L-theanine, an amino acid that gently sharpens focus while easing stress. It's what gives matcha that rare ability to calm the mind without causing drowsiness. Emerging research also points to possible heart health benefits, including improved blood pressure and cholesterol regulation with regular consumption.

Additionally, matcha is a good source of vitamins A and C, both of which can strengthen the immune system and support overall well-being. These properties have contributed to matcha's rising popularity among health-conscious individuals around the world.

You don’t need to attend a tea ceremony or own a full set of tools to enjoy matcha at home. With just three essentials—matcha powder, a bowl, and a bamboo whisk—you can create your own quiet ritual, anytime. Whether you're craving something bold, refreshing, or creamy, here are two easy matcha styles to match your mood.

Generally, when people refer to matcha, they mean usucha—a lighter, more common style of preparation known as “thin tea.”. Usucha is made by adding 60 ml (2 fl oz) of hot water at over 90 °C (195 °F) to 2 g of matcha powder. Then whisk briskly with a bamboo whisk, or chasen, until a fine layer of froth forms. In Japan, this whisking process is called tateru, meaning “to whisk” or “to prepare” the tea.

For the best froth, a whisk with more tines works well, though beginners often find an 80-tine whisk easier to handle. Usucha is traditionally served in a matcha bowl decorated with seasonal motifs, making the experience as much a visual pleasure as a taste experience.

This style of matcha strikes a delicate balance between tea and water, creating a smooth, easy-to-drink cup often described as “light.” It’s also delicious served chilled, either over ice as iced matcha or poured over ice cream for a refreshing matcha float.

For a modern twist, try a matcha latte. Whisked with milk—or plant-based alternatives like oat or soy—it’s smooth, mellow, and often lightly sweetened. This cozy take on matcha is perfect for beginners or anyone who prefers a creamier cup.

At MUSUBI KILN, we offer a curated selection of items for matcha lovers, with a special focus on finely crafted matcha bowls chosen by our expert buyers.

Among them, the “ Blossom & Golden Yellow Matcha Bowl” from Chojuro Kiln stands out. Created in collaboration with MUSUBI KILN, this piece reflects the richness of the Japanese spring, embodying the kiln’s dedication to glaze formulation.

Its vivid colors capture the bright contrast of blooming spring flowers, with a gentle gradient from soft pink to golden yellow that is sure to uplift the spirit.

The cylindrical form is designed for comfort, offering an easy grip and a smooth whisking experience.

Another delightful option is the “ Sakura and Moon Matcha Bowl” by Tanaka Toubou, which is a beautiful piece that even beginners can enjoy.

This elegant Kyo ware bowl features delicate cherry blossoms in pink and a golden full moon—a refined design that evokes the serene beauty of Japan’s spring landscape. It feels as if the fleeting beauty of sakura season has been captured in the form of a matcha bowl.

Both bowls are sure to enrich your tea moments with beauty and seasonal charm.

For preparing matcha at home, a chasen (bamboo whisk) is essential for creating a smooth, frothy texture. Pair it with a chashaku, a traditional bamboo scoop for measuring matcha powder, to elevate the experience with authentic flair.

To complete your tea setup, consider a natsume, a lidded container for storing sifted matcha powder. The Natsume Matcha Container” from Yamanaka Lacquerware features calm, earthy tones and graceful motifs.

For those looking for a convenient way to begin, MUSUBI KILN also offers complete matcha sets, allowing you to enjoy matcha effortlessly—whether at home, outdoors, or during a picnic.

Matcha is not only enjoyed on its own but is also valued for its versatility—as an ingredient in smoothies, lattes, and baked goods. That’s why you’ll now find it everywhere—from kitchen counters to coffee shop menus across the globe. Beyond its culinary uses, drinking matcha offers a deeper connection to Japanese culture, particularly through the practices of the Japanese tea ceremony. 

We hope this article inspires you to experience matcha for yourself, whether at a café or in the comfort of your home with one of our carefully selected matcha items.