As matcha continues to grow in popularity, one phrase appears everywhere:
"Ceremonial Grade Matcha."
But what does that actually mean?
Many people are surprised to learn that there is no official certification or industry-wide standard for ceremonial-grade matcha. As a result, products labeled "ceremonial grade" can vary dramatically in quality.
For many Americans, tasting authentic Japanese ceremonial matcha for the first time is a completely different experience.
The color is brighter.
The texture is smoother.
The sweetness is more natural.
And the rich umami lingers long after each sip.
Once you experience truly high-quality matcha, it becomes easy to understand why generations of Japanese tea practitioners have trusted the same tea producers for centuries.
The Matcha Used in Japanese Tea Culture
At Nara Tea, we focus on introducing authentic Japanese ceremonial-grade matcha from two of Japan's most respected tea producers:
Marukyu Koyamaen
Founded more than 350 years ago in Uji, Kyoto, Marukyu Koyamaen is one of Japan's most recognized and respected matcha producers.
Their matcha is trusted by tea practitioners throughout Japan and is widely used in traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Known for exceptional consistency, vibrant color, rich umami, and refined flavor, Marukyu Koyamaen has become one of the most sought-after matcha producers in the world.
Popular matcha such as Yugen, Wako, Isuzu, Choan, and Tenju are enjoyed by tea practitioners and matcha enthusiasts worldwide.
Kanbayashi Shunsho Honten
Founded more than 450 years ago, Kanbayashi Shunsho Honten is one of Japan's oldest and most prestigious tea houses.
Since the era of Sen no Rikyu and the early Tokugawa shogunate, the Kanbayashi family has been supplying premium tea and preserving the traditions of Uji tea for generations.
Their matcha is known for its elegant aroma, balanced flavor, and exceptional smoothness. Today, tea ceremony practitioners continue to appreciate Kanbayashi matcha as an authentic expression of centuries-old Japanese tea culture.
For over four centuries, the Kanbayashi name has stood for quality, craftsmanship, and tradition.
Why Buy from an Authorized Retailer?
As demand for Japanese matcha increases worldwide, purchasing from a trusted source has become more important than ever.
Nara Tea is proud to be an authorized retailer of both Marukyu Koyamaen and Kanbayashi Shunsho Honten in the United States.
We work directly with these historic tea producers and regularly receive fresh shipments from Japan.
When you purchase from Nara Tea, you can feel confident that you are receiving authentic matcha sourced directly from the original tea makers.
Experience the Difference
Many people believe they have tasted ceremonial-grade matcha—until they experience authentic matcha from Japan's most respected tea producers.
Whether you are new to matcha, studying Japanese tea ceremony, or simply looking for the finest matcha available, we invite you to discover the difference.
Visit Nara Tea and experience the rich flavor, smooth texture, and centuries of tradition behind authentic ceremonial-grade matcha.
Taste the matcha that Japanese tea practitioners have enjoyed for generations.