Kyoto Free Guide Available on Weekend !: ★ Matcha History, Casual Tea Ceremony

Have you ever heard of Matcha?
Matcha is not a regular green tea, but finely-powdered premium green tea. When you visit Japan, you may see various kinds of Matcha used/flavored foods, sweets, ice cream and drinks here and there.

Matcha was originally introduced to Japan from China in twelfth century as "medicine", by the famous preist Eisai who went to China to study Zen Buddhism.

After back to Japan, he wrote the book how tea is healthful.

Actually, you will find lot's of health benefits in Matcha.
Rich in nutrients, antioxidants, fiber and chlorophyll.

One glass of matcha is the equivalent of 10 glasses of
green tea about nutritional value and antioxidant content.

Originally,
Matcha was enjoyed among Zen priests
for the reason to keep awake while Zen sitting meditation practice.

And then, the Shogun (the commander of samurai) was really impressed the book by Eisai and encouraged tea, so it was spread among samurai class, too.

We Japanese are a big fan of Matcha taste!
Enjoying Matcha is really unique to Japan. It is the heart of the Japanese way of tea and has been celebrated in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony for hundreds of years.

Are you curious what is the taste like? ^^

The initial taste is vegetal and bitter, followed by a lingering sweetness.

Chlorophyll and amino acids give Matcha unique rich taste. They say it's similar to one's first taste of dark chocolate

Matcha also adds the flavor and color of green tea to your creation, be it a smoothie, latte, savory sauce or pastry.

After exploring amazing Kyoto city, you may feel like to take some rest...
Why don't you enjoy Matcha Tea Ceremony at the temple?

Sitting on the porch you must be feeling really peaceful with a beautiful view of the garden.

Quietness is so powerful. You may lose the sense of time. So special experience!