Usucha (薄茶) is the most traditional way to enjoy matcha in Japan.

Used in Japanese tea ceremony, usucha is prepared simply with matcha and hot water—no milk, no sugar, nothing added. This method reveals the true character of high-quality ceremonial matcha in its purest form.

Smooth, light, and aromatic, usucha highlights natural sweetness, gentle umami, and clarity when made with properly shaded, stone-milled matcha.

What Is Usucha (薄茶)?

Usucha is the standard style of matcha preparation in Japanese tea culture. Unlike modern matcha drinks, it focuses on balance rather than intensity.

When prepared correctly, usucha reflects core principles of Japanese tea culture: simplicity, harmony, and refinement.

Our premium organic Uji matcha is crafted specifically for usucha, where its clarity, balance, and gentle umami are most expressive.

To understand why our matcha creates such a clean and elegant usucha, read more about Uji terroir, organic farming, and traditional aging here→ Read article

How to Prepare Usucha (Traditional Method)

This is the recommended usucha preparation method using MUSUBI MATCHA.

Ingredients & Tools

• Matcha: 2g

• Hot water: 70ml at 70–80°C

• Chasen (bamboo whisk)

• Chawan (tea bowl)

• Tea strainer

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pour hot water into the chawan. Gently place the tips of the chasen into the water for a few seconds. Discard the water and dry the bowl. A warm bowl stabilizes temperature and improves texture.
2. Sift 2g of matcha into the bowl to remove clumps and ensure a smooth, even consistency.
3. Pour 70ml of water at 70–80°C. This temperature preserves sweetness and prevents bitterness.
4. Begin whisking from the bottom of the bowl using an “M” or “W” motion. Move quickly with the wrist, avoiding pressure on the bowl.
5. As the matcha becomes smooth, lift the whisk slightly and lightly whisk the surface to create a fine, mousse-like foam.

*This ratio (2g : 70ml) best expresses the sweetness, umami, and clarity of shaded, stone-milled premium organic Uji matcha.

Choosing the Right Matcha for Usucha

Not all matcha is suitable for usucha.

Usucha requires first-harvest leaves, proper shading, and fine stone-milling to achieve balance without bitterness.

Explore our Premium Organic Uji Matcha, crafted in small batches specifically for traditional usucha preparation.

Explore our matcha → SHOP

Finding Your Preferred Taste

Matcha is personal.

While 2g : 70ml at 70–80°C is optimal for our matcha, subtle adjustments change the experience:

Water temperature

Water quantity

Matcha quantity

Whisking intensity

I encourage you to experiment and discover the balance that suits your palate.

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