There is a quiet moment before the first sip.
The steam rises from the hot water. The vibrant green begins to bloom. The whisk moves gently through the tea.
Preparing matcha has never been only about the drink itself. It is about the small moments of care that come before it.
At HIKARI, our ceremonial matcha comes from the Unoike family farm in Yame, Japan, where tea has been cultivated for generations. Stone-milled from first-flush leaves, it is naturally sweet, vibrant, and meant to be enjoyed slowly.
Here's how we prepare it.
What You'll Need
- 1 tsp (2g) HIKARI ceremonial matcha
- 70ml (2½ oz) water heated to 70–80°C (160–175°F)
- A chawan (tea bowl)
- A chasen (bamboo whisk)
- A chashaku (bamboo scoop) or measuring spoon
- A fine mesh sifter
1. Warm the Bowl
Pour a little hot water into your bowl and swirl it gently.
This warms the ceramic, helping your matcha stay at the ideal temperature. Empty the bowl and dry it with a clean cloth before adding your tea.
2. Sift the Matcha
Sift your matcha directly into the bowl.
This simple step helps create a silky texture and allows the powder to whisk effortlessly into the water.
3. Add the Water
Pour 70ml of water over the matcha.
Water that is too hot can overwhelm the delicate sweetness of ceremonial-grade tea, so we recommend letting freshly boiled water rest for a few minutes before pouring.
4. Whisk
Using your chasen, whisk with a relaxed wrist in a gentle M or W motion.
After about 20 seconds, the tea should become smooth with a delicate layer of fine foam across the surface.
Don't worry about perfection. Every bowl is a little different.
5. Enjoy While Fresh
Matcha is at its best the moment it is prepared.
Take a moment before your first sip. Notice the aroma, the warmth of the bowl in your hands, and the vivid green of the tea. Then enjoy.
A Small Detail That Makes a Difference
If possible, use filtered or spring water.
Because matcha is simply tea and water, the quality of each matters. Softer water allows the natural sweetness and creamy texture of ceremonial matcha to shine.
Caring for Your Chasen
After each use, rinse your bamboo whisk with warm water—no soap needed.
Allow it to dry on a whisk holder if you have one. With gentle care, your chasen will continue to create beautiful bowls for months to come.
Preparing matcha isn't about mastering a technique.
It's about creating a small pause in the day.
One bowl. One moment. One quiet reminder to slow down.