History & Culture
The story behind matcha.
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The history of matcha
Powdered tea originated in China (~760 CE), was transmitted to Japan by Zen monk Eisai around 1191, then disappeared from China after a 1391 imperial edict. Modern matcha β with shade cultivation, tencha processing, and stone grinding β developed in Japan during the 15th-16th centuries. The tea ceremony we know today was codified by Sen no RikyΕ« in the late 1500s.
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What is the Japanese tea ceremony?
The Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu or chadΕ) is a ritualized practice of preparing and serving matcha centered on four principles: harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. It's not about drinking tea β it's a meditative practice emphasizing mindfulness and the beauty of simple moments.