tea used in japanese tea ceremony

Japanese Tea Ceremony: The Art of Tea Preparation with Traditional Tea

By Rachel AndersonDecember 7, 2025

The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as Chanoyu or Sado, is a choreographed ritual of preparing and serving tea to guests, typically in a traditional Japanese tea room. Central to this ceremony is the use of tea, specifically Matcha, a type of green tea powder. This article delves into the history, preparation, and significance of tea in the Japanese tea ceremony.

Tea was first introduced to Japan in the 9th century by Buddhist monks who brought it back from their travels to China. However, it was during the Muromachi period (1336-1573) that tea drinking became popular among the Japanese elite. The tea ceremony as we know it today began to take shape during this time, influenced by Zen Buddhism and the concept of wabi-sabi, the acceptance of transience and imperfection.

Matcha: The Tea of Choice

Matcha is the tea of choice for the Japanese tea ceremony. It is made from stone-ground tea leaves, which are then whisked into hot water, creating a frothy, vibrant green drink. The use of Matcha in the tea ceremony is not just about the taste, but also about the ritual and the mindfulness it encourages.

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The high quality Matcha used in the tea ceremony is typically grown in the shade for about 20-30 days before harvest. This process, called "temae," increases the chlorophyll content in the leaves, giving Matcha its distinctive green color and rich, umami flavor.

Preparation of Matcha

The preparation of Matcha is a meticulous process, involving several steps. First, the tea master, or "tea master," cleanses their hands and the tea utensils. Then, they measure out the Matcha, usually about 2 scoops for thick tea (Koicha) or 3-4 scoops for thin tea (Usucha), into a bowl called a "chawan."

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The tea master then adds hot water, around 80°C for Koicha and 90°C for Usucha, and begins to whisk the tea using a bamboo whisk called a "chasen." The whisking motion is smooth and rhythmic, creating a frothy layer on top of the tea. The tea is then ready to be served to the guests.

Significance of Matcha in the Tea Ceremony

The use of Matcha in the Japanese tea ceremony is deeply symbolic. The tea, with its rich color and strong flavor, represents the present moment. The act of preparing and drinking the tea is a mindfulness practice, encouraging guests to be fully present and engaged in the here and now.

The tea ceremony is also a demonstration of harmony (Wa), respect (Kei), purity (Sei), and tranquility (Jaku). The use of Matcha, with its vibrant color and rich flavor, embodies these principles. The tea master's careful preparation and the guests' mindful consumption create a sense of harmony and respect, while the temporary nature of the tea and the ceremony itself reflects the principles of purity and tranquility.

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The Role of Tea Utensils

The Japanese tea ceremony is not just about the tea, but also about the utensils used to prepare and serve it. These utensils, often made of porcelain, wood, or bamboo, are carefully selected and cared for, adding to the aesthetic and symbolic value of the ceremony.

The tea bowl (chawan), tea whisk (chasen), tea scoop (chashaku), and tea whisk rest (fukusa) are among the most important utensils. Each utensil has a specific purpose and is used in a particular way, adding to the choreography of the ceremony.

Chawan: The Tea Bowl

The chawan, or tea bowl, is the most important utensil in the Japanese tea ceremony. It is where the tea is prepared and from which it is drunk. Chawan come in various shapes and sizes, each with its own aesthetic and symbolic significance. Some chawan are designed to hold a large amount of tea, symbolizing generosity, while others are small and delicate, representing elegance.

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The chawan is not just a vessel for the tea, but also a work of art. Many chawan are handmade and signed by the artist, adding to their value and significance. The tea master often chooses the chawan based on the season, the guests, and the type of tea being served.

Chashaku: The Tea Scoop

The chashaku, or tea scoop, is used to measure out the Matcha into the chawan. It is typically made of bamboo and has a long, thin handle and a small, spoon-like head. The tea master holds the chashaku with their thumb and index finger, using a precise, controlled motion to scoop the Matcha.

The use of the chashaku is not just functional, but also symbolic. The way the tea master holds the chashaku and the rhythm of their scooping motion are all part of the choreography of the tea ceremony. The chashaku is also a symbol of respect, as the tea master uses it to serve the tea to the guests.

In the Japanese tea ceremony, the use of tea is not just about the beverage itself, but about the ritual, the mindfulness, and the symbolism it embodies. The tea ceremony is a testament to the Japanese aesthetic and cultural values, and the use of Matcha is central to this experience. Whether you're a seasoned tea ceremony participant or a curious beginner, there's always more to explore and appreciate in this ancient art form.