From Chinese monks to global trend
These days, we know matcha primarily as a trendy drink: neat, in a latte or smoothie, even as ice cream. But did you know that matcha actually originated in China, not Japan, as many people think? Matcha, the bright green powder we now even add to skincare products, has a history as rich as its flavor. We need to go back in time to discover where and when matcha originated before it found its place in the Japanese Imperial Court—and eventually became a global trend.
The origin of matcha lies in China
Between 618 and 907, during the Tang Dynasty in China, tea leaves were steamed, dried, and pressed into blocks. These blocks were then grated and whipped with hot water. This was the early version of what we now know as matcha. It was during the Song Dynasty (960–1279) that people truly began to drink tea as a powder: steamed leaves were dried, finely ground, and ceremonially prepared. This strongly resembles what we know today as "matcha." Even then, matcha had a spiritual significance, as its preparation was a ritual in itself. Tea wasn't simply drunk; it was experienced .
Monk Eisai brings matcha to Japan
Chinese Zen Buddhism played a key role in the spread of powdered tea. In 1191, the Japanese Zen monk Eisai returned from China, bringing tea seeds and knowledge of powdered tea back from China. He planted the seeds in Kyoto and introduced matcha as a health drink and meditation aid. In his book, Kissa Yojoki ("On Drinking Tea for Health"), he describes the physical and spiritual benefits of green tea. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha kept monks alert and calm at the same time—exactly what you want when sitting still for hours. This laid the foundation for matcha's deep connection to Japanese culture.
Matcha for the Imperial Court
Initially, matcha was primarily consumed in monasteries. But the elite at the court soon became intrigued by this new, refined drink, both for its mystical allure and the health benefits attributed to it. As a result, matcha became part of Japanese elite culture in the centuries that followed, even reaching the court. Between the 12th and 16th centuries, during the Kamakura and Muromachi periods , tea was not only consumed but also became part of a ceremonial tradition: the Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ). This ceremony was all about tranquility, harmony, and mindfulness of the moment. This tea ceremony was developed by tea masters like Sen no Rikyū and even evolved into an art form and status symbol.
The starting points of this tea ceremony, besides the taste, were of course the four core values: harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. These values remain important in matcha culture.
From Japan to the rest of the world
Thanks to its health benefits, striking color, and unique flavor, matcha is gaining popularity worldwide. The matcha we drink is the result of centuries of refinement. Although its origins are Chinese, modern matcha culture is purely Japanese.
These days, matcha has become a staple in supermarkets, trendy coffee shops, and even skincare products. Why is this? The combination of a new flavor (umami), health benefits (antioxidants, energy, focus), and experience (a sense of calm and ritual) makes matcha irresistible. Another factor is the endlessly creative uses.
So although its origins are Chinese, what we know today as “matcha” is unmistakably Japanese.
Do you drink matcha primarily for the flavor, the health benefits, or for peace of mind? Or all three? Try a ceremonial matcha , using a matcha whisk ( chasen ) and a beautiful matcha bowl ( chawan ), and discover how matcha is more than just a drink—it's a moment for yourself.