14 Best Japanese Matcha Brands 2023

Looking for some of the best Japanese matcha brands? There are several matcha brands on Amazon but you can never tell how authentic they are. So I’ve tried and tested a few Japanese matcha brands to find the best ones for you on Amazon. 

Pure matcha is considered a superfood for the amount of nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, catechins packed in it. 

Best Japanese Matcha Brands: Quick Summary

Best Japanese Matcha Brands	Known For
Encha Matcha	Encha ceremonial grade matcha powder
Soar Organics	Soar organics ceremonial matcha
Pure Matcha	Pure Matcha ceremonial matcha
Chalait Everyday	Chalait Everyday Ceremonial Grade Matcha
Ippodo Matcha	Ummon-no-mukashi
MatchaBar	Matcha Bar Classic Ceremonial grade matcha
Jade Leaf	Jade Leaf Organic Japanese Matcha

Which is the best Japanese matcha brand? 

In my quest to find authentic Japanese matcha powder, I’ve tried and tested over 10 matcha brands on Amazon based on color, flavor, aroma, source of tea leaves, and freshness. I found that Encha Matcha is the best Japanese matcha brand. 

Encha Matcha is a high-quality Japanese matcha brand with a smooth and balanced taste. It has almost no astringency when prepared with hot water. It is free of pesticide, synthetic fertilizers, GMO, and preservatives. The Encha Matcha powder is sourced directly from the farmers in the Uji mountains. It is USDA certified organic and is available on Amazon for $19.95

Encha Matcha 

Encha Matcha is one of my favorite Japanese matcha brands. This high-quality Japanese matcha brand is free of pesticide, synthetic fertilizers, GMO, and preservatives. I love this matcha brand because it has a smooth taste with almost no astringent after taste when you make it with hot water. 

There are two varieties you can choose from – the ceremonial grade matcha and latte grade. 

The ceremonial Grade Pure Organic Matcha powder is ground with the tender leaves of the first-harvest from the Uji Mountains of Kyoto. 

How to make: 

Whist encha ceremonial matcha powder with 5oz hot water at 160F, vigorously to get enjoy a cup of full-bodied, smooth, and delicate cup of Japanese matcha green tea

This higher-quality Encha latte grade pure matcha is made from the first harvest of organic matcha grown in Kyoto’s Uji mountains. It’s high-quality is marked by it’s deep green and smoother taste when compared to other latte grade matcha. 

How to make:

It’s recommended you use a frother or matcha whisk when mixing to avoid clumps. Whisk 1tsp Encha latte grade matcha powder with 2oz of water. After that add milk accordingly. 

All Japanese matcha powder offered by Encha is organic certified by the USDA.

Related: Check out these delicious convenience store food from Japan!

Soar Organics 

This Japanese matcha brand was launched in 2017 but I only recently had the chance to try it. The Soar organics ceremonial matcha has a vibrant green color when prepared and has a smooth taste. It is slightly sweet which I absolutely love!

The soar organics matcha powder is made by slowly stone grinding the first flush harvest in Kyoto. This Japanese matcha brand is certified by both Japanese agricultural organic standard and Canadian Organic Regime. It is also free of radiation, heavy metals and arsenic.

Why I, specially, have a soft spot for this Japanese matcha brand is because a portion of the sale made by any Soar Organic matcha is donated to the Canadian Feed the Children. So you can do your bit simply by buying delicious, healthy, organic Japanese matcha tea! 

Check out this best Japanese matcha brands below!

Related: Mix these amazing Japanese collagen supplements with your morning tea to improve your skin, hair, and overall immunity!

Pure Matcha 

Pure Matcha ceremonial green tea has fresh aroma and vibrant green color. This will quickly become your go-to matcha brand once you start drinking it as a rich, delicious buttery and smooth taste. The premium ceremonial grade matcha powder is 100% pure, high-quality, organic matcha. Rich in antioxidants, matcha is packed with the goodness of catechins that boost immunity. 

It also aids in weight loss as it boosts your metabolism 140 times more than regular green tea. It also blocks fat from breaking down and promotes absorption of fat by the cells so it passes through the body instead of being stored. It is also an appetite suppressant this helps you burn more calories and consume less. 

How to make: 

Use an electric or bamboo whisker to whisk the green tea. Alternatively, you can also use a blender. Since Pure Matcha is not instant matcha powder, you cannot mix it using a spoon. 

Related: Ever tried the $5,000 Japanese mangoes? Click here to find out the reason of this price tag!

Chalait Everyday Ceremonial Grade Matcha

Chalait Japanese matcha is harvested in Uji where you get the finest matcha in Japan. Hand-picked tea leaves of the first harvest in spring are ordered in small batches so you always receive fresh matcha powder. Chalait sources matcha directly from the farmers of Uji to ensure highest quality premium grease matcha. 

And you’ll recognise this high-quality with every sip of Chalait matcha. Chalait offers four varieties of flavor of ceremonial matcha – Everyday Grade Matcha, Organic Grade, Reserve Grade, Top Grade. 

My favorite is the Everyday Ceremonial grade matcha. It has a mellow, smooth flavor with hints of cacao nibs, honeydew and bittersweet chocolate – absolutely delicious with complex flavor and rice aroma. 

How to make:

The Chalait Everyday ceremonial grade matcha can be prepared to enjoy both matcha tea or matcha latte. 

Top prepare matcha tea: Mix ½ tsp matcha with 2-3 o of hot water. Whisk it in W motion until you see thick frothy bubbles on the surface. 

To prepare matcha latte: Simply add milk after preparing matcha tea

You can choose between the four flavors of this best Japanese matcha brands on Amazon below!

Related: Would you pay $200 for a cantaloupe? Well, in Japan they do! Find out why!

Ippodo Matcha: Ummon-no-mukashi

My favorite matcha from Ippodo matcha, one of the best Japanese matcha brands, is the Ummon-no-mukashi variant. It has a full-bodied, rice flavor. The aroma is absolutely inviting and will definitely invigorate your mind and body. You can tell that it’s high quality by looking at its vibrant green emerald color and the fresh aroma. 

Launched in 1717, Ippodo tea has been supplying tea lovers with the highest quality of Japanese tea and has garnered a lot of love and appreciation for its flavor and the ultimate matcha experience it offers. 

How to make:

Mix ½ tsp of matcha powder with water for matcha tea. And then mix milk for matcha latte. You can also add honey for added flavor. 

Ippodo Tea offers other flavors and grade as well like Ikuyo matcha, Kan matcha, Sencha, Bancha.

Related: Love Japanese cuisine? Learn how to cook Japanese rice and make your favorite Japanese rice based dish!

MatchaBar Classic Matcha

The Matcha Bar Classic Ceremonial grade matcha is sourced from Kagoshima, Japan. It is rich in L-theanine and contains natural caffeine that helps you stay focused and calm through the day. You’ll feel energetic and focussed through the day, unlike coffee that only boosts energy for a few hours after consumption. 

It has a smooth and balanced taste with an amazing green color, texture, and umami taste. It has an earthy, sweet taste which you’ll love! Directly sourced from kagoshima, MatchaBar orders small batches of matcha directly from the farmers to maintain its freshness and hand blends it. The matcha is graded by a certified Chasi tea master. 

The matcha leaves are stone grounded that releases essential vitamins, micronutrients, and vitamins. 

This best Japanese matcha brands also offers a 80 matcha powder tin. Other than that, you’ll also find Hustle Matcha Energy Drink in its Amazon store.

Related: Do you have the right Japanese rice to make authentic sushi? Find out which rice is the best for sushi and other Japanese dishes!

Jade Leaf Organic Japanese Matcha

Jade Leaf Organic Japanese Matcha is certified organic by USDA. Jade Leaf uses pure shade-grown green tea leaves. It is free of harmful fertilizers and pesticides. This Japanese matcha brand sources authentic Japanese matcha directly from family farms in Kagoshima and Uji.

You can use Jade Leaf Organic Japanese Matcha powder to make tea, lattes, smoothies, and even mix it in baked good. It’s free of additives and is tested for heavy metals and other contaminants. 

Find more products by JadeLeaf Matcha like single serve matcha sticks, matcha starter set, and matcha ceremony set below!

• Related: Best Japanese Green Tea
• Related: Popular Japanese Bottled Green Tea

Kimikura Matcha

The Kimikura matcha is from the Kagoshima area in Japan and is known to be one of the best Japanese matcha brands for its taste. It’s made from the first flush and has a very mild taste. It’s purely organic to reap all the health benefits. 

It’s refined by Teamaster Chashi who won the first prize in Tea refining competition. Just blend in this matcha and sip the tea, you’ll know about it’s freshness. As it’s 100% green tea, it’s supposed to be bitter but surprisingly this one is not as bitter.

Kenko Matcha

The Kenko Matcha is one of the most premium matcha in taste. It’s loaded with antioxidants that increase energy and work efficiency. It’s made with handpicked leaves, air dried and then stone ground to maintain the quality of the matcha. 

The best part about this matcha tea is that it contains no GMO and is also gluten free. Moreover, all the vegans can enjoy this. It’s free of pesticides and other toxic chemicals.

Fukujuen 福寿園 Premium Japanese Tea

Fukujuen Premium Japanese Tea is a testament to the rich heritage and artistry of Japanese tea-making. 

As a tea aficionado, I was excited to explore the world of Fukujuen and experience the essence of traditional Japanese tea.

The packaging of Fukujuen tea exudes elegance and simplicity, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality. 

Each tea package is meticulously designed, featuring beautiful artwork and informative details about the tea variety. It’s a delight to unwrap and discover the carefully selected tea leaves inside.

One of the highlights of Fukujuen Premium Japanese Tea is the wide variety of tea options available. 

From sencha and matcha to genmaicha and hojicha, Fukujuen caters to a range of tea preferences. This allows tea enthusiasts to explore different flavor profiles and find their personal favorites within the Fukujuen collection.

When it comes to taste, Fukujuen truly shines. The teas are vibrant and aromatic, with a depth of flavor that showcases the skillful craftsmanship involved in their production. 

The sencha boasts a refreshing grassy note, while the matcha delivers a rich, creamy taste that envelops the palate. 

The genmaicha charms with its unique combination of roasted rice and green tea, and the hojicha delights with its toasty, nutty character. Each sip is a journey of flavors that transports you to the tranquil tea gardens of Japan.

The quality of the tea leaves is evident in every cup. Fukujuen takes great care in sourcing their tea leaves from renowned tea-growing regions, ensuring only the finest leaves are selected. 

The result is tea that is vibrant in color, fragrant in aroma, and rich in taste. The leaves unfurl beautifully during steeping, releasing their flavors and captivating the senses.

The brewing instructions provided with each tea package are clear and helpful, guiding you to achieve the perfect infusion. 

However, I would have appreciated more detailed brewing recommendations, such as water temperature and steeping times, for each tea variety. This would have further enhanced the brewing experience and allowed for optimal flavor extraction.

Overall, Fukujuen Premium Japanese Tea is a commendable choice for those seeking an authentic and immersive Japanese tea experience. 

The variety, quality, and flavors offered by Fukujuen are a testament to the brand’s dedication to preserving and sharing the art of Japanese tea. While the brewing instructions could be more comprehensive, the teas themselves are a treat for the senses and provide a glimpse into the rich tea culture of Japan. 

Give Fukujuen a try, and embark on a flavorful journey through the world of premium Japanese tea.

Hibiki-an Matcha Super Premium

Hibiki-an Matcha Super Premium is an extraordinary culinary-grade matcha that elevates the art of matcha preparation to new heights. 

As a passionate matcha enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of exploring various matcha brands, and Hibiki-an’s Super Premium offering has truly left a lasting impression.

Right from the moment you open the package, you are greeted with an intoxicating aroma that signifies the freshness and quality of the matcha. The vibrant green color of the finely ground powder is visually striking and immediately hints at the pureness of the leaves. 

Hibiki-an’s attention to detail is evident in the elegant and minimalistic packaging, which further enhances the overall premium experience.

What sets Hibiki-an Matcha Super Premium apart is its exceptional flavor profile. Upon whisking, the matcha froths up beautifully, resulting in a smooth and velvety texture. 

The taste is an exquisite balance of umami, natural sweetness, and delicate bitterness, creating a harmonious blend that lingers on the palate. The depth and complexity of the flavors reflect the careful cultivation and processing of the tea leaves.

This matcha is particularly well-suited for culinary applications, as it lends itself to a wide range of recipes.

Whether you’re creating matcha lattes, desserts, or savory dishes, Hibiki-an Matcha Super Premium adds a distinctive and captivating flavor. 

Its versatility allows you to experiment and explore the world of matcha-infused culinary delights with confidence.

The quality of the tea leaves used in Hibiki-an Matcha Super Premium is exceptional. The leaves are shade-grown in Japan and carefully handpicked, resulting in a vibrant green color and an abundance of nutrients. 

The meticulous stone-grinding process ensures a fine and consistent powder, which contributes to the smooth texture and easy dissolvability in liquid.

The authenticity and dedication of Hibiki-an as a matcha producer shine through in every aspect of this product. 

From sourcing the highest quality tea leaves to meticulous processing and packaging, they have created a matcha that embodies the essence of Japanese tea culture. 

Moreover, Hibiki-an’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices further enhances the appeal of their matcha.

In conclusion, Hibiki-an Matcha Super Premium is a true gem for matcha enthusiasts and culinary enthusiasts alike. Its remarkable flavor, versatility, and superior quality make it a standout choice. 

Whether you’re savoring a traditional matcha tea ceremony or creating delectable matcha-infused treats, this matcha delivers an exquisite and unparalleled experience. 

Immerse yourself in the world of Hibiki-an Matcha Super Premium, and prepare to be captivated by its depth, flavor, and overall culinary delight.

Ochaski Premium Matcha オチャスキー

I recently had the pleasure of trying Ochaski Premium Matcha, and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations. 

As an avid matcha enthusiast, I’ve tasted various matcha brands, but Ochaski stands out for its exceptional quality and distinct flavor profile.

First and foremost, the packaging of Ochaski Premium Matcha is elegant and sleek, reflecting the attention to detail that goes into every aspect of this product. 

The vibrant green color of the matcha powder is a testament to its freshness and authenticity. Upon opening the package, a rich, earthy aroma envelops your senses, instantly building anticipation for the upcoming matcha experience.

What sets Ochaski Premium Matcha apart is its exceptionally smooth and velvety texture. The fine powder effortlessly dissolves, creating a flawless, vibrant green brew. 

The flavor profile is balanced, offering a harmonious blend of umami and subtle sweetness, without any bitter aftertaste. Each sip carries a distinct vegetal essence, allowing you to appreciate the natural characteristics of high-quality matcha.

The versatility of Ochaski Premium Matcha is truly impressive. Whether you prefer traditional whisking methods or want to explore matcha-infused culinary delights, this matcha delivers exceptional results. 

It froths beautifully, producing a creamy foam that elevates the overall presentation and indulgence of your matcha experience. It also blends effortlessly into smoothies, lattes, and baked goods, adding a delightful green tea flavor to your creations.

One of the aspects I appreciate about Ochaski is its commitment to sourcing premium matcha leaves. 

The brand takes great care in selecting shade-grown, stone-ground leaves from Japan, ensuring an authentic and superior product. The result is a matcha that embodies the essence of Japanese tea culture and provides an exquisite taste that is truly worth savoring.

Itohkyuemon Kyoto Uji Premium Matcha Powder

Itohkyuemon Kyoto Uji Premium Matcha Powder offers a refined and exquisite matcha experience, transporting you to the renowned tea-growing region of Kyoto Uji in Japan. 

This premium matcha powder captures the essence of traditional Japanese tea craftsmanship, delivering a harmonious blend of flavor and authenticity.

The packaging of Itohkyuemon Kyoto Uji Premium Matcha Powder exudes a sense of timeless elegance. The carefully designed package reflects the brand’s dedication to quality and attention to detail. 

The vibrant green hue of the finely ground powder is visually captivating, a testament to the fresh and carefully processed tea leaves.

When it comes to taste, Itohkyuemon Kyoto Uji Premium Matcha Powder does not disappoint. It offers a balanced and refined flavor profile, combining gentle umami notes with a subtle sweetness and a hint of pleasant bitterness. 

Each sip reveals the depth and complexity of the matcha, creating a truly satisfying experience for the discerning palate.

The versatility of Itohkyuemon Kyoto Uji Premium Matcha Powder makes it an excellent choice for various culinary applications. 

Whether used in traditional matcha tea ceremonies or incorporated into modern recipes, this matcha powder adds a unique and vibrant flavor. From lattes and smoothies to desserts and baked goods, the matcha blends seamlessly, infusing your creations with a touch of Kyoto’s tea heritage.

The quality of the tea leaves used in Itohkyuemon Kyoto Uji Premium Matcha Powder is apparent from the first taste. 

The leaves are carefully selected and shade-grown, resulting in a high-grade matcha with a vibrant green color and a rich concentration of antioxidants. 

The meticulous stone-grinding process ensures a fine and silky smooth powder that dissolves effortlessly, allowing you to fully savor the matcha’s character.

While Itohkyuemon Kyoto Uji Premium Matcha Powder offers an exceptional matcha experience, it is worth noting that it falls on the higher end of the price spectrum. 

However, the quality, flavor, and cultural significance of this matcha justify the investment for those seeking an authentic and elevated tea experience.

In conclusion, Itohkyuemon Kyoto Uji Premium Matcha Powder is a testament to the artistry and refinement of Japanese tea. Its elegant packaging, well-balanced flavor profile, and versatility in culinary applications make it a worthy choice for matcha enthusiasts and connoisseurs. 

Treat yourself to a moment of tranquility and indulge in the timeless elegance of Itohkyuemon Kyoto Uji Premium Matcha Powder.

Morihan Matcha Multi-Purpose Japanese Green Tea Powder

Morihan Matcha Multi-Purpose Japanese Green Tea Powder is a versatile and high-quality tea powder that offers a delightful taste experience. 

Whether you’re a seasoned matcha enthusiast or new to the world of Japanese green tea, Morihan Matcha is a reliable choice that combines versatility with exceptional quality.

The packaging of Morihan Matcha is simple yet elegant, featuring a resealable bag that keeps the tea powder fresh over time. 

The design reflects the brand’s commitment to authenticity and quality, and the package includes essential information about the tea’s origin and recommended uses, ensuring a user-friendly experience.

When it comes to flavor, Morihan Matcha delivers a well-rounded and enjoyable taste. The tea exhibits a balance of umami, slight bitterness, and a touch of natural sweetness. The flavor is not overpowering, allowing for a pleasant and nuanced sipping experience. 

Whether you prefer it whisked into a traditional matcha tea or incorporated into recipes, Morihan Matcha adds a delightful green tea essence to your creations.

One of the standout features of Morihan Matcha is its versatility. This multi-purpose tea powder can be enjoyed in various ways. It blends smoothly into beverages like lattes and smoothies, imparting a vibrant green color and a refreshing flavor. 

Additionally, it can be used in baking and cooking, enhancing recipes with a unique twist of Japanese green tea. The versatility of Morihan Matcha makes it a go-to option for those seeking to explore and experiment with matcha in their culinary pursuits.

The quality of the tea leaves used in Morihan Matcha is evident in the vibrant green color and finely ground texture of the powder. The leaves are sourced from Japan and undergo careful processing to preserve their flavor and aroma. 

While it may not reach the same level of ceremonial-grade matcha, the quality is more than satisfactory for everyday enjoyment.

It is worth mentioning that Morihan Matcha falls into a more affordable price range compared to some premium matcha options on the market. 

This makes it an accessible choice for those who want to incorporate matcha into their daily routine without breaking the bank. However, it’s important to note that the taste and overall experience may vary compared to higher-grade matcha offerings.

In conclusion, Morihan Matcha Multi-Purpose Japanese Green Tea Powder offers a versatile and enjoyable matcha experience. 

Its balanced flavor, versatility in culinary applications, and affordable pricing make it a commendable choice for both seasoned matcha enthusiasts and newcomers to Japanese green tea. 

Explore the possibilities and savor the quality of Morihan Matcha as you embark on your matcha journey.

Reasons to Drink Matcha :

Matcha has several health benefits which is why it’s ideal to drink matcha. Here are some of the healthy reasons to drink matcha: 

• Matcha prevents cancer: A type of catechin in matcha prevents the development of cancer cells. It also fights against the risk of cancer.

• Matcha is a brain booster: Matcha helps in memory and brain functioning. If you’re tired, get yourself a cup of matcha to feel refreshed and have a better brain functioning. Coffee does a similar job but matcha is much healthier.

• Matcha keeps the heart healthy: Drinking matcha keeps the heart healthy. It helps in controlling cholesterol, preventing strokes and other heart diseases.  

• Matcha aids weight loss: Matcha is known to increase metabolism and energy levels which in turn helps in fat loss. If you’re on your weight loss journey, include matcha in your diet plan. 

• Matcha is a good source of antioxidants: Matcha consists of catechins that are a type of antioxidants. They help in preventing chronic diseases and keep the cells in our body healthy. 

Types Of Japanese Matcha 

Matcha, a powdered green tea, is an integral part of Japanese tea culture. There are several types of matcha available, each with its unique characteristics. Here are some common types of Japanese matcha:

• Ceremonial Grade Matcha

This is the highest quality matcha, often used in traditional tea ceremonies. It is made from the youngest tea leaves, hand-picked and stone-ground into a fine powder. Ceremonial grade matcha has a vibrant green color, a smooth texture, and a delicate, sweet flavor.

• Premium Grade Matcha

This type of matcha is also high quality, but it may be slightly less vibrant in color and have a slightly stronger flavor compared to ceremonial grade matcha. Premium grade matcha is often used for daily consumption or in tea ceremonies where a slightly stronger taste is preferred.

• Culinary Grade Matcha

As the name suggests, culinary grade matcha is primarily used in cooking, baking, and blending into beverages like lattes and smoothies. It is made from more mature tea leaves, resulting in a slightly bitter taste. Culinary grade matcha is less expensive than ceremonial or premium grades, making it a popular choice for everyday culinary applications.

• Koicha Grade Matcha

Koicha is a thick and concentrated form of matcha used in a specific type of Japanese tea ceremony. It requires a higher grade of matcha with a milder flavor and a thicker consistency. Koicha grade matcha is typically more expensive and harder to find than other types.

• Usucha Grade Matcha

Usucha, meaning “thin tea,” is the most common type of matcha used in daily consumption and tea ceremonies. It has a lighter consistency and is whisked into a frothy beverage. Usucha grade matcha offers a balance between flavor, aroma, and affordability.

• Organic Matcha

This refers to any type of matcha that is grown and processed using organic farming methods. Organic matcha is free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a more natural and environmentally friendly option.

It’s worth noting that the quality and flavor of matcha can vary depending on factors such as growing conditions, processing methods, and the specific tea estate or region it comes from.

Each type of matcha has its own characteristics, allowing you to choose the one that suits your preferences and intended use.

How do you know if matcha is good quality?

To determine the quality of matcha, you can consider several factors. Here are some indicators of good-quality matcha:

• Color: High-quality matcha should have a vibrant, bright green color. It indicates that the leaves were carefully shade-grown and processed to preserve the vibrant green chlorophyll content.

• Aroma: Good matcha typically has a fresh, grassy, and slightly sweet aroma. The fragrance should be pleasant and inviting.

• Texture: When you rub the matcha between your fingers, it should feel smooth and silky, without any grittiness. Finely ground matcha powder is a characteristic of higher quality.

• Origin: Matcha from Japan is widely regarded as the best quality. Matcha produced in regions like Uji, Nishio, and Shizuoka in Japan are known for their high-quality tea production.

• Grade: Matcha is often graded based on its quality. Ceremonial grade matcha is considered the highest quality and is typically used in traditional tea ceremonies. Culinary grade matcha is of lower quality but still suitable for various culinary uses like baking or smoothies.

• Packaging: Matcha that is packaged in airtight, light-blocking containers helps preserve its freshness and vibrant color. Quality matcha is often sold in sealed tins or resealable bags to protect it from moisture and oxidation.

• Taste: High-quality matcha has a rich, smooth, and slightly sweet flavor. It should have a balanced umami taste without any bitterness or astringency.

It’s worth noting that determining matcha quality can sometimes be subjective, and personal preferences may vary. Additionally, reputable sellers who specialize in tea and provide detailed information about the product’s origin, processing methods, and sourcing are more likely to offer high-quality matcha.

What is the best matcha to try for beginners?

For beginners who are new to matcha, it is generally recommended to start with a matcha that is considered suitable for everyday consumption and doesn’t require intricate preparation.

Culinary grade matcha is often a good choice for beginners because it is more affordable and has a slightly stronger flavor, which can be balanced with other ingredients.

Here are a few options of culinary grade matcha that are popular for beginners:

• Ippodo Tea – “Kan-no-shiro”: This is a beginner-friendly matcha from a renowned tea company in Japan. It has a smooth flavor with a good balance of umami and sweetness.

• Jade Leaf Matcha – “Culinary Grade”: Jade Leaf is a popular brand that offers a culinary grade matcha suitable for everyday use. It has a vibrant green color, smooth texture, and a mild, slightly earthy taste.

• Matcha Konomi – “Usucha”: Matcha Konomi offers a culinary grade matcha that is recommended for making usucha, the thin tea commonly consumed in Japanese tea ceremonies. It has a balanced flavor profile and is suitable for drinking as well as for culinary purposes.

• DoMatcha – “Culinary Organic Matcha”: DoMatcha offers an organic culinary grade matcha that is smooth, vibrant, and affordable. It is suitable for everyday use in drinks, lattes, or baking.

Remember that taste preferences can vary from person to person, so it’s a good idea to explore different brands and varieties to find the one that suits your palate. As you become more familiar with matcha, you can gradually explore higher grades and ceremonial options if you desire.

Best Japanese Matcha Brands: FAQs

Which part of Japan makes the best matcha?

The Uji region of Kyoto Prefecture is considered to be the birthplace of matcha, and it is still widely regarded as the best place to produce matcha in Japan. The area has a long history of matcha production, dating back to the 12th century. 

The soil in Uji is ideal for growing tea plants, and the climate is also well-suited for matcha production. The tea leaves grown in Uji are known for their high quality and their rich, umami flavor.

What is the highest grade matcha?

The highest grade of matcha is ceremonial grade. It is made from the youngest and most tender tea leaves, which are grown in the shade for several weeks before being harvested. The leaves are then steamed and ground into a fine powder. Ceremonial grade matcha has a vibrant green color, a smooth texture, and a rich, umami flavor. 

It is typically used for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, but it can also be enjoyed in a variety of other ways, such as in smoothies, lattes, and baked goods.

Why Japanese matcha is expensive?

There are several reasons why Japanese matcha is expensive.

• The growing process is labor-intensive and time-consuming. Matcha is made from the youngest and most tender tea leaves, which are grown in the shade for several weeks before being harvested. This process is called chadawari, and it is essential for producing high-quality matcha. The leaves are then steamed and ground into a fine powder, which is also a labor-intensive process.

• The best matcha only comes from a few specific regions in Japan. The Uji region of Kyoto Prefecture is considered to be the best place to produce matcha in Japan. The soil in Uji is ideal for growing tea plants, and the climate is also well-suited for matcha production. The tea leaves grown in Uji are known for their high quality and their rich, umami flavor.

• There is a high demand for Japanese matcha. Matcha has become increasingly popular in recent years, both in Japan and around the world. This has led to an increase in demand for Japanese matcha, which has put upward pressure on prices.

As a result of these factors, Japanese matcha is generally more expensive than other types of tea. 

However, the high price is justified by the quality and taste of Japanese matcha. If you are looking for the best matcha in the world, then you should definitely consider Japanese matcha.

Why is Uji Matcha famous?

Uji Matcha is famous for a number of reasons, including:

• The quality of the tea leaves: The tea leaves grown in Uji are known for their high quality. The soil in Uji is ideal for growing tea plants, and the climate is also well-suited for matcha production.

• The traditional production methods: Uji Matcha is produced using traditional methods that have been passed down for centuries. These methods ensure that the matcha is of the highest quality.

• The unique flavor: Uji Matcha has a unique flavor that is different from other types of matcha. It is said to be more umami and less bitter.

• The history: Uji has a long history of matcha production. It is said that matcha was first introduced to Uji by Zen Buddhist monks in the 12th century.

As a result of these factors, Uji Matcha is considered to be one of the best types of matcha in the world. It is often used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, and it is also becoming increasingly popular around the world.

Here are some of the specific reasons why Uji Matcha is considered to be the best:

• The soil: The soil in Uji is rich in minerals and nutrients, which gives the tea leaves their unique flavor.

• The climate: The climate in Uji is mild and humid, which is ideal for growing tea plants.

• The harvesting method: The tea leaves in Uji are harvested in the shade for several weeks before being processed. This process gives the leaves a higher concentration of chlorophyll and L-theanine, which are two of the compounds that give matcha its unique flavor and health benefits.

• The grinding method: The tea leaves in Uji are ground into a fine powder using traditional methods. This process ensures that the matcha retains its nutrients and flavor.

If you are looking for the best matcha in the world, then you should definitely consider Uji Matcha. It is a delicious and nutritious beverage that is worth the investment.

Is Japanese matcha good?

Japanese matcha is considered to be one of the best types of matcha in the world. It is made from the highest quality tea leaves, which are grown in the shade for several weeks before being harvested. The leaves are then steamed and ground into a fine powder. 

Japanese matcha has a vibrant green color, a smooth texture, and a rich, umami flavor. It is also a good source of antioxidants and other nutrients.

Why is Japanese matcha so expensive?

Matcha is expensive because of it’s growing and production. It requires a lot of labour and is time consuming. Most of the matcha are manually powdered through ground stone or other traditional methods that require manual labours.

Is it safe to drink matcha everyday?

Yes, you can drink matcha everyday. However, it’s not advisable to drink more than 2 cups of matcha per day.

Is matcha good for weight loss?

Matcha is beneficial to drink between 1 to 4 tbsp. It helps in losing approximately 3 lbs in 12 weeks with no diet or activity changes. It helps in decreasing body fat composition and abdominal fat as well.

How is matcha different from green tea?

The main difference between matcha and green tea is that matcha comes in the form of a power and green tea in the form of leaves in a tea bag. When compared to green tea, matcha has more prominent nutritional benefits and flavor when compared to green tea. Green tea is steeped in boiling water to extract its flavor and benefits because of which you miss out on most of its benefits.

On the other hand, since matcha is grounded from whole tea leaves and is consumed by mixing the powder in water, milk, or dishes, you consume all the nutrients.  

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