Japanese Tea & Matcha — Premium Green Tea Sourced Directly from Japan
Japanese green tea and matcha represent over a thousand years of cultivation tradition. Japan produces some of the world's finest teas — valued for their umami depth, vibrant color, and high concentration of catechins, L-theanine, and antioxidants. Authentic Japanese tea tastes nothing like the generic green tea sold in most supermarkets outside Japan.
Our Japanese Tea & Matcha collection features three premium products sourced directly from Japan: Ooi Ocha loose leaf green tea blended with matcha (100g) — one of Japan's most popular everyday green teas — Yamaneen Matcha Powder Tea from Uji (40g), and Upwell Uji Matcha Powder (50g), ideal for lattes, baking, smoothies, and daily ceremonial preparation.
Uji, Kyoto is considered the gold standard of Japanese matcha production. Tea plants are shade-grown for weeks before harvest to maximize chlorophyll and L-theanine — the amino acid that promotes calm, focused alertness without the spike-and-crash of coffee. Uji matcha has a naturally sweet, umami-forward flavor that distinguishes it from cheaper matcha powders produced outside Japan.
All products are 100% authentic, sourced directly from Japan, and shipped from our warehouse in Kobe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between loose leaf green tea and matcha powder?
Ooi Ocha loose leaf tea is brewed by steeping leaves in hot water and straining — the leaves are not consumed. Matcha powder is whisked directly into water or milk without straining, so you consume the whole leaf in powdered form. Matcha is significantly higher in L-theanine, catechins, and caffeine per serving than steeped green tea.
How do I prepare Uji matcha powder at home?
Sift 1–2 teaspoons of matcha powder into a bowl or mug, add a small amount of hot water (70–80°C — not boiling), and whisk vigorously in a W-motion until frothy. For a matcha latte, add steamed milk. Sifting first prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, consistent texture.
What temperature should I use to brew Ooi Ocha loose leaf green tea?
Brew green tea at 70–80°C — never with boiling water, which releases bitter tannins. Use 2g of tea per 200ml of water and steep for 1–2 minutes. The result should be a golden-green, gently sweet cup with a clean finish.
Does Japanese matcha taste different from matcha sold in supermarkets abroad?
Yes, significantly. Authentic Uji matcha has a naturally sweet, umami-rich flavor with a smooth finish. Many matcha products sold outside Japan use lower-grade leaves or non-Japanese sources, resulting in a bitter, dull powder. The color difference is also visible — real Japanese matcha is a vivid, bright green.
