Frequently Asked Questions (FQA)
🍵 About Japanese Tea
1. Where do you source your matcha and teas from?
Our teas are from family owned teahouse based in Hiroshima, Japan for 3 generations. They care about the quality of the teas, and the owner is wishing for everybody to enjoy good quality tea in our daily life. Our Matchas are mainly from Uji in Kyoto and one from Yame in Fukuoka, and Japanese teas in tea bags are from Shizuoka, one of the biggest producing regions of green teas.
2. What is special about your matcha?
We have the range of different Matcha and all our matcha are stone milled, and the texture is silky, and the quality of matcha powder is great to be used for tea ceremony even the lowest price one. We are happy to be able to provide the high quality matcha.
3. What is the difference between matcha and tea bags green tea?
Matcha is finely ground green tea powder made from shade-grown leaves, traditionally whisked with warm water. The tea bags teas such as sencha, hojicha, or genmaicha are brewed by steeping in hot water. Both offer unique flavors and health benefits.
4. There are 5 different matcha, which one is good for the beginner?
For matcha beginner, we recommend Kokonoe no Mukashi to start. Kokonoe no Mukashi has a milder taste, and smooth and very approachable. Then, you can explore different kind of matcha to enjoy!
5. How should I store matcha and to keep them fresh after opening?
For the best flavor, we recommend finishing matcha within 1-2 months after opening. Keep matcha in an airtight container, stored in the refrigerator once opened.
6. How much caffeine is in matcha compared to coffee?
One serving of matcha (1g / ½ teaspoon) contains about 30–35 mg of caffeine, roughly one-third of a cup of coffee, but with a more balanced energy release thanks to L-theanine.
7. How do I brew Japanese teas like sencha, genmaicha, and hojicha?
We recommend pour the hot water (70 - 80°C) in the cup first, and then put the tea bags of sencha, genmaicha and kukicha, which will create the smoother flavor. Hojicha can be steeped with hotter water (90°C) directly.
8. Why does my matcha taste bitter?
If matcha tastes bitter, it may be due to too much powder, water that is too hot, or insufficient whisking. Use 70-80°C water and sift the matcha before whisking for a smoother taste.
9. Are your teas organic?
Our teas are sourced from tea producers with a focus on quality and traditional cultivation. However, teas are not organic certified.
10. Can you tell the differences of Matcha you have in the shop?
We have 5 different Matcha powders, and they are all stone-milled and their quality is very high. Matcha changes the aroma, sweetness and bitterness based on the quality. Please see the following chart for your reference.
🏺 About Hagi Ware (Hagi-yaki)
1. What is Hagi ware, and why is it special?
Hagi ware (Hagi-yaki) is a traditional Japanese pottery from Yamaguchi Prefecture with over 400 years of history. Known for its warm, rustic clay and subtle beauty, it is highly valued in tea ceremonies.
2. Why does the color of Hagi ware change over time?
Hagi ware is porous and develops fine cracks called kannyu. As tea or sake seeps in, the piece gradually changes color, a phenomenon called Hagi no nanabake (“seven transformations”), making each piece more beautiful with use.
3. Can I use Hagi ware in the microwave or oven?
No. Hagi ware should not be used in microwaves or ovens.
4. How about putting Hagi ware in the dishwasher?
We don't recommend to use the dishwasher, just hand wash only with water. Don't let it sit in the water too long as it absorbs.
5. Why does some Hagi ware have a notch on the foot (kiri-kodai)?
Traditionally, this notch was made to mark pieces as imperfect so they could be sold outside of official use. Today, it remains a signature design feature of Hagi ware.
6. Will Hagi ware damage my table surface?
Because the base may contain coarse sand, we recommend placing a cloth or mat underneath to protect your table.
7. Are all Hagi ware pieces handmade?
Yes. Each piece is handcrafted, making it one-of-a-kind and reflecting the artisan’s skill and dedication.
8. Is Hagi ware safe for everyday use?
Yes, it is food-safe and traditionally used for tea, sake, and tableware. Just remember to dry it thoroughly after washing.
📦 General
1. Do you ship Hagi ware outside the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany?
At the moment, we mainly ship to these countries. If you live elsewhere, please contact us directly - we will do our best to arrange a special order.
2. Is it possible to buy other Hagi ware other than posted on the site?
Only the posted pottery will be available for purchase. We will be updating the site frequently so please come back and check!
3. Do you do the wholesale?
Yes, we do. If you would like to discuss further, please contact us. You can find more info in our B2B website.