Matcha History: 800 Years of Japanese Green Tea and Culture

Matcha History: 800 Years of Japanese Green Tea and Culture LearningMatcha The Beauty of Matcha: Quiet Richness Shaped by 800 Years of Japanese Aesthetics The matcha we enjoy today is more than just a trendy green tea — it’s a tradition steeped in over 800 years of Japanese aesthetics, mindfulness, and cultural refinement. Sen no Rikyū and the Spirit of Wabi-Sabi Matcha first took root in Japan during the Kamakura period when tea seeds were brought from China. In the 16th century, matcha evolved beyond a drink, becoming a deeply spiritual and cultural ritual, thanks to the influence of legendary tea masterSen no Rikyū. Rikyū emphasized wabi-sabi — the uniquely Japanese aesthetic of finding beauty in simplicity, imperfection, and transience. A single tea bowl, a quiet tatami room, a freshly watered garden — these humble scenes, stripped of all excess, reflect a timeless, understated elegance. Portrait of Sen no Rikyū (first image) by Hasegawa Tōhaku Chashaku (bamboo tea scoop) crafted by Rikyū himself (second image)In February of Tenshō 19 (1591), Sen no Rikyū, who was ordered to commit ritual suicide by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, carved this tea scoop himself and used it in his final tea ceremony. After the ceremony, it was given to Furuta Oribe, who made a tea container with a rectangular window, through which he revered the tea scoop as a substitute for a memorial tablet. In this tradition, matcha is not simply consumed — it is experienced. The process of boiling water, whisking powdered green tea, and serving a cup with grace embodies mindfulness, presence, and gratitude. Uji Tea: Kyoto’s 800-Year Legacy of Excellence If matcha had a birthplace of excellence, it would be Uji, a region in Kyoto renowned for producing Japan’s highest quality green tea. Cultivation began here in the Kamakura period, and by the Edo era, Uji matcha was esteemed enough to be offered to shoguns. With its misty climate, fertile soil, and pure water, Uji offers ideal conditions for growing ceremonial-grade matcha. Generations of artisans have refined the art of cultivation and grinding, maintaining Uji’s status as the heart of Japan’s matcha heritage. The Four Waves of the Global Matcha Boom 1st Wave (1996) — Matcha as a Gourmet Flavor The boom began in Japan when Häagen-Dazs released its Green Tea ice cream, reintroducing matcha as a sophisticated, adult flavor. 2nd Wave (2000s) — Matcha Latte Goes Global With the rise of cafés like Starbucks, the matcha latte became a hit in the West, marking matcha’s leap into mainstream café culture. 3rd Wave (2010s–) — Wellness & Japanese Lifestyle With the global rise of wellness and mindfulness trends, matcha gained recognition as a superfood rich in antioxidants and L-theanine, making it popular in the U.S., Europe, and Southeast Asia. 4th Wave (Now) — Matcha as a Cultural & Personal Icon Today, we are entering a new phase. Matcha is no longer just healthy — it’s fashionable, expressive, and sustainable. Among Gen Z and millennial consumers, matcha is part of a modern lifestyle — where ancient rituals meet personal creativity. Matcha as Culture, Philosophy, and Future From its roots in Zen Buddhism to its evolution as a café favorite, matcha reflects more than flavor — it reflects a way of life. In a world that moves too fast, matcha invites us to pause, breathe, and reconnect. Each bowl of matcha is a moment of quiet. A mindful breath. A connection to 800 years of aesthetic wisdom. And perhaps, a small but meaningful step toward a more intentional future. If you are a business owner or retailer interested in offering premium matcha to your customers, please check out our Wholesale website for information on bulk purchasing and partnership opportunities. Prev

Organic vs. Non-Organic Matcha: Which One Should You Choose?

Organic vs. Non-Organic Matcha: Which One Should You Choose? LearningMatcha Insights from Tea Farmers in Uji, Japan When shopping for matcha, you’ve probably asked yourself: Should I go organic? It sounds healthier, more natural — but is it always better? After speaking directly with tea farmers in Uji, Kyoto — one of Japan’s most respected tea regions — we’ve learned that the answer is more nuanced than a simple “yes” or “no.” Color and Flavor: A Matter of Cultivation Non-organic matcha is often a vivid, lush green with a bold, umami-rich taste. This comes from careful fertilization, especially with nitrogen-rich inputs that intensify flavor and color. Think of it as a gourmet approach — rich in nutrients, designed to bring out the best in every leaf. In contrast, organic matcha tends to be lighter in color, with a gentler, more subtle taste — sometimes closer to sencha. Without the help of chemical fertilizers, the tea plants dig deep into the earth to find nutrients naturally. It’s a kind of “vegan farming,” and the taste reflects that: earthy, soft, and unpretentious. But “Organic” Doesn’t Mean Just One Thing What surprised us most was how diverse organic farming can be. Some farms use organic fertilizers derived from animals, while others follow a completely plant-based, sustainable cycle. Both are certified organic under Japan’s JAS system — but the farming philosophies are very different. These differences can greatly influence the tea’s aroma, depth, and finish. So while the “organic” label is useful, it doesn’t tell the full story. Knowing how the tea is grown matters just as much. Processing, Storage, and Beyond ea farmers were also quick to point out that cultivation is only part of the picture. The type of tea plant, weather, soil, how the leaves are steamed, dried, and ground — even the condition of the stone mill — all affect the taste. And once matcha is ground into powder, it becomes incredibly sensitive. Light, heat, and air can quickly degrade its flavor and color. In fact, the vibrant green you see in premium matcha is often the result of careful, cold storage just as much as expert farming. It’s Not About “Better or Worse” — It’s About What You Value One Uji farmer put it beautifully: “It’s not which one is better — it’s what standard you’re using to decide.” Do you prioritize vibrant color and bold taste? Or do you care more about sustainability and how the tea is grown? The best matcha for you depends on what you believe in. So next time you’re shopping, look beyond the label. Seek out the story. That just might lead you to a cup that feels perfect — not just for your tastebuds, but for your values. It’s Not About “Better or Worse” — It’s About What You Value At UND, we source both organic and non-organic matcha directly from Japanese farms that share our values. About Wholesale For businesses interested in carrying our products, we offer wholesale options.For details on our offerings and pricing, please visit our wholesale site.※ A password is required to access the site. Please contact us here for access. Learn More Wholesale PrevNext

Refreshing Iced Matcha Latte in Greenpoint Brooklyn – Japanese Café UnD

Refreshing Iced Matcha Latte in Greenpoint Brooklyn – Japanese Café UnD Matcha As the seasons change, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing Iced Matcha Latte to brighten your day. At UnD, we bring you a unique experience with our chilled matcha latte, distinct from our traditional warm matcha offerings. We select only the finest ceremonial-grade matcha from Japan’s top farms, delivering a taste that transports you with every sip. A Taste of Summer Our vibrant green Iced Matcha Latte symbolizes the purity of its ingredients. The flavor is bright and fresh, capturing the gentle sweetness of young matcha leaves. Paired with almond milk or oat milk, this latte offers a creamy, smooth texture and a naturally subtle sweetness that brings out its true, undisputed deliciousness.In the near future, we’ll also offer a sweeter matcha syrup version of our Iced Matcha Latte. In Japan, matcha lattes with a touch of sweetened matcha syrup are popular, especially among children, and they’re a great recommendation for anyone who enjoys a bit of added sweetness. This upcoming version will highlight a richer, slightly sweeter flavor that preserves the delightful aroma of matcha, creating a whole new taste experience. A Quiet Moment Every cup of our Iced Matcha Latte is crafted with care, offering a brief retreat from the day’s busy pace. Whether you’re seeking a calm moment amid Brooklyn’s lively energy or simply need a refreshing break, this drink is the perfect companion. It’s imbued with the serene spirit of Japanese tea culture, giving you a little escape right in the heart of the city. Additionally, we offer Matcha Tonic as a refreshing option. This drink beautifully combines the flavor of matcha with sparkling water, and we encourage you to give it a try. A One-of-a-Kind Experience at UnD Our Iced Matcha Latte is more than just a drink—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a piece of Japanese tranquility in the center of Brooklyn. We hope you look forward to trying our upcoming matcha syrup version as well. Stop by UnD and experience the refreshing indulgence of this special latte!If you’d like to recreate this at home, check out our 20g cans of authentic matcha available for purchase.– BUY Our Matcha PrevNext

Experience the Art of Matcha: Where Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony Meets Modern Matcha Lattes

Experience the Art of Matcha: Where Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony Meets Modern Matcha Lattes Matcha At UnD, we’re dedicated to bringing the true essence of Japan to Brooklyn. One way we achieve this is through our Uji Matcha—authentic Japanese matcha prepared with meticulous care using traditional techniques. With tools like a chagama (iron tea kettle) and chasen (bamboo whisk), we stay true to the time-honored art of matcha preparation. This ceremonial process reflects the very spirit of Japanese culture, allowing you to experience a taste of Japan in every cup. The Traditional Process of Making Matcha Matcha has been an integral part of Japanese tea ceremony for centuries. The process begins by heating water in a chagama, then carefully whisking powdered matcha with a chasen until it becomes frothy and smooth. This method is not just about making a drink, but creating a moment of peace and tradition. At UnD, we honor this ritual, offering a rich, creamy, and authentic taste experience with each cup of matcha we prepare. Making matcha is more than just preparing a beverage; in Japanese culture, it symbolizes hospitality, mindfulness, and harmony. At UnD, we invite you to experience this special tradition and savor the rich flavor of meticulously whisked, authentic matcha. Matcha Latte: A Modern Twist Our Matcha Latte is a rich and creamy cup made with high-quality matcha sourced from Japan and steamed milk. It pairs excellently with almond milk, oat milk, and soy milk, enhancing the natural sweetness of the matcha. Our iced version is also very popular and is particularly refreshing on hot days. Additionally, we offer Matcha Tonic as a refreshing option. This drink beautifully combines the flavor of matcha with sparkling water, and we encourage you to give it a try. Perfect Pairing with Our Signature Shokupan Our matcha drinks are perfectly complemented by UnD’s signature almond milk bread. Known for its soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness, our Shokupan pairs wonderfully with the deep, earthy notes of matcha, offering a luxurious and satisfying experience. If you’d like to recreate this at home, check out our 20g cans of authentic matcha available for purchase.– BUY Our Matcha B2B Services: Supplying Matcha to High-End Restaurants At UnD, we not only serve matcha in our café but also offer high-quality matcha for wholesale to upscale restaurants and cafés. Our carefully selected matcha delivers deep flavors and rich aromas, earning praise from chefs and baristas throughout New York City and beyond. If you’re interested, please contact us for more information.– More About Our Matcha UnD: Japanese Concept Coffee Studio in Greenpoint Brooklyn: Visit UnD in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, where tradition meets modernity in every matcha drink. Whether you’re a fan of the ceremonial Japanese tea experience or want to try a matcha latte for the first time, UnD offers a rich, artistic matcha journey. PrevNext