Hawa Matcha sources single-origin, single-cultivar teas directly from award-winning producers across Japan. Our Ceremonial Uji Blend and Houjicha Powder come from Dragon Knights Tea in Uji, Kyoto. Our Ceremonial Blend is from Ushijima Seicha, a 4th-generation producer in Yame, Fukuoka. Our Okumidori is grown by Osada Tea near the Kirishima mountains in Kagoshima. Every tea is first flush, spring harvest.

"Ceremonial" and "culinary" are Western marketing terms — not regulated standards in Japan. There is no government body or industry organization in Japan that certifies or defines these grades. The terms were introduced around 2007 by Western importers to simplify quality distinctions for consumers unfamiliar with Japanese tea culture.

In Japan, matcha quality is assessed through harvest timing (first flush spring leaves, called ichibancha, are most prized), shading duration and method, tea plant cultivar, growing region and terroir, leaf selection during processing, and the tea master's blending expertise — a traditional craft called gogumi passed down through generations. Official recognition comes through competitions like the annual National Tea Competition (Zenkoku Cha Hinpyokai), held by Japan's Ministry of Agriculture since 1963.

Because "ceremonial grade" has no regulated definition, any brand can use the term regardless of actual quality. At Hawa Matcha, we list the specific producer, region, and cultivar for every product — so you can evaluate quality based on the same criteria that matter in Japan.

Just as wine grapes have distinct varieties (Cabernet, Pinot Noir), tea plants have cultivars — each with a unique flavor profile. Single-cultivar matcha comes from one specific variety, so you taste the pure character of that plant. Our Okumidori matcha, for example, is made exclusively from the Okumidori cultivar grown in Kagoshima, giving it a bright, vegetal sweetness with warm cereal notes. Our blends, by contrast, combine multiple cultivars for a more layered, balanced experience.

Matcha and coffee serve different purposes. A standard serving of matcha contains roughly 30–50mg of caffeine (compared to 80–120mg in coffee), but matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm focus without the jitters or crash associated with coffee. Many people describe the matcha energy as "alert but relaxed." Our Houjicha Powder is an excellent option for those seeking an even lower caffeine alternative — houjicha is a roasted green tea with a warm, toasty flavor and very little caffeine.

Usucha ('thin tea') Preparation
1. Heat water to 160-170°F.
2. Sift 2-4g of matcha into a chawan.
3. Add 50-60ml of hot water.
4. Whisk matcha in "M" motion for 20 seconds or until frothy.
5. Ready to enjoy!

For a matcha latte, prepare the matcha as above, then add 8–10oz of your milk of choice.

Matcha is sensitive to light, heat, air, and moisture. Once opened, store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freezer. Bring the tin to room temperature before opening to prevent condensation. Unopened tins can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. For the best flavor, we recommend consuming matcha within 4–6 weeks of opening.

Yes. You can subscribe and save 15% on select products with delivery every 2 weeks or monthly. Subscriptions require a minimum of 2 cycles, after which you can cancel anytime. You can also pause or reschedule deliveries at any point.

We currently ship throughout the United States and Canada. All domestic US orders over $50 qualify for free shipping.

Orders over $50 within the United States ship free. US orders under $50 ship at a flat rate of $7. Shipping to Canada is a flat rate of $12. Customers outside the US are responsible for applicable customs duties and taxes.

Once your order is processed, you'll receive a confirmation email with your tracking number and a link to our tracking page. Please allow up to 12 hours for the tracking number to activate. If you don't see updates within 2 business days, contact us at hello@hawamatcha.com.

Please email us at hello@hawamatcha.com with a photo of the item you received and the name of the correct item, and we'll resolve it promptly.

Yes, we work with cafés, restaurants, and retailers. Please visit our Contact page or email hello@hawamatcha.com with details about your business for wholesale pricing and minimum order information.