MATCHA MADE IN HEAVEN

Embrace the ritual of a Japanese tea ceremony

WORDS BY EMILY HUMPHREY

Forget matcha lattes down at your local cafe – this is the real deal. In a land steeped in tradition, there’s no better place than ancient Kyoto to take in a Japanese tea ceremony, chado (‘the way of tea’).

Preparing, presenting and appreciating matcha (a fine green tea powder) is a beautiful, centuries-old ritual of cultural significance. It’s an elaborate ceremony that embraces four basic principles: purity, tranquility, harmony and respect.

Although seen as a trend in the Western world, matcha tea found its place in Japan in the 12th century, namely with Zen Buddhists, which might explain the somewhat meditative nature of the tea ceremony. Every step is a precise art, from the correct way to turn and drink from the traditional cup to the well-honed technique with the bamboo whisk.

Learn about tea etiquette, the important traditions behind the practice and have a go preparing the matcha tea yourself.

Preparing tea is a fine art in Japan

MAIN IMAGE: The history of Japanese matcha dates back to the 12th century