The History of Matcha

Matcha’s story begins over a thousand years ago in ancient China, where Tang dynasty tea drinkers ground steamed tea leaves into powder and whisked them into hot water. By the Song dynasty (960–1279), this technique evolved into a refined practice popular among Buddhist monks and scholars, who valued it for enhancing focus and meditation.

In the late 12th century, Japanese Zen monk Eisai brought tea seeds and preparation techniques back from China. He planted the seeds in Uji and Mt. Sefuri, regions still famed for producing high-quality matcha. Eisai’s book Kissa Yojoki (“Drinking Tea for Health”) promoted tea for both mental clarity and physical wellness.

By the 15th and 16th centuries, tea masters like Murata Juko and Sen no Rikyu elevated matcha into chanoyu, the Japanese tea ceremony—a spiritual ritual rooted in simplicity, mindfulness, and seasonal appreciation.

While powdered tea fell out of favor in China, Japan preserved and refined the tradition. From the 1600s through the 1800s, matcha became a symbol of elegance and cultural sophistication.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Japanese producers—especially in Uji—revived matcha as a national treasure and functional superfood. By the early 2000s, it exploded in global popularity thanks to its vibrant color, unique flavor, and rising health-conscious trends.

Today, matcha is a global sensation, found in lattes, smoothies, desserts, skincare products, and beyond.

Matcha Health Benefits

Why is matcha good for you? Here’s a breakdown of its scientifically-backed health benefits:

• Calm, focused energy: Thanks to L-theanine, matcha delivers relaxed alertness without the crash or jitters of coffee.

• Rich in antioxidants: Especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation.

• Boosts metabolism: Matcha may support fat burning and energy expenditure.

• Enhances brain function: The synergy of caffeine + L-theanine improves focus, memory, and reaction time.

• Natural detoxifier: Grown in the shade, matcha is packed with chlorophyll, which supports detoxification.

• Supports heart health: Regular consumption may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

How to Make Matcha

Making matcha at home is easy with the right tools and technique.

Basic Matcha Recipe

• 1/2 tsp matcha powder

• 8 oz hot water (175°F / 80°C)

Use a bamboo whisk (chasen) or electric frother in a ceramic matcha bowl (chawan) to fully dissolve and froth the matcha.

Enjoy it straight, or try one of these modern matcha recipes:

Matcha Latte 🍵

Whisk matcha with a small amount of hot water, then pour over steamed or iced milk. Add honey, sugar, or flavored syrups to taste.

Pro tip: If sweetening an iced latte, dissolve the sweetener in the hot matcha before adding cold milk.

Matcha Affogato 🍨

Pour a concentrated matcha shot over vanilla or milk-flavored gelato. It’s rich, earthy, and refreshing.

What Flavors Pair Well with Matcha?

Matcha’s umami notes pair well with:

• Honey 🍯 – Enhances its natural sweetness.

• Vanilla or Lavender Syrups 🪻 – Add floral depth.

• Mint or Peppermint 🍬 – A seasonal favorite! Our winter special, a candy cane matcha was a holiday hit.

Why We Don’t Say “Ceremonial Grade Matcha”

You’ve likely heard advice like: “Always buy ceremonial grade matcha.” But what does that label really mean?

Here’s the truth: “Ceremonial grade” has no official definition. Unlike “specialty coffee,” which has strict standards, there’s no certifying body for ceremonial matcha—it's a marketing term created in the West. In Japan, the term isn’t even used.

At Bean & Bean, we believe in transparency over buzzwords. Instead of using vague labels, here’s what we can promise:

• We use first flush matcha, harvested during the spring’s first growth—a time known for producing tea with sweetness, complexity, and vibrant color.

• Our matcha is stone-ground, shade-grown, and carefully sourced from Kagoshima, Japan.

Try it for yourself! It's available online and in our cafés.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your morning latte, explore traditional tea rituals, or fuel your brain with plant-based energy, matcha is more than a trend—it’s a tradition backed by centuries of culture and science.

Shop our Organic Japanese Matcha and taste the difference for yourself. 💚