Matcha Ritual – Tea, Health, and Mindfulness from Japan

A podcast from Japan exploring the ritual of matcha and the deeper meanings behind tea, health, and mindfulness. Hosted by Kensuke Suji (Suji-san), Certified Tea Advisor and founder of Zenkyu Matcha, each episode offers a pause to reflect on Zen, the tea ceremony, and how tradition supports modern well-being. Topics include the history and health benefits of matcha, mindful routines, and how simple tea rituals support clarity and balance. Let this become your weekly ritual. Learn more at https://zenkyumatcha.com or follow　@zenkyu_matcha_jp.

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Episodes

#5 – The History of Matcha (Part 2): From Wabi-cha to the Global Boom

In Part 2 of our journey through matcha’s history, we explore how Japan’s tea culture evolved—from the quiet aesthetics of wabi-cha and the influence of Sen no Rikyū, to matcha’s spread through samurai society and into modern life. We then trace matcha’s transformation into a global wellness trend, rediscovering its original roots in health and mindfulness. A 1,000-year story of ritual, reflection, and reconnection.Learn more at ⁠zenkyumatcha.com⁠ or follow ⁠@zenkyu_matcha_jp⁠ on Instagram....

Jul 26, 2025•13 min•Season 1Ep. 5

#4 – The History of Matcha (Part 1): From Ancient China to Zen in Japan

This episode explores the early history of matcha—how powdered tea first emerged in ancient China, and how it was later brought to Japan by monks and embraced within Zen Buddhism. Learn how matcha evolved from medicine to mindful ritual, forming the roots of Japan’s tea culture. Part 1 of a two-part series on the timeless journey of matcha. Learn more at ⁠zenkyumatcha.com⁠ or follow ⁠@zenkyu_matcha_jp⁠ on Instagram.

Jul 18, 2025•11 min

#3 – How Authentic Matcha Is Made in Japan

What makes authentic matcha different from the rest?This episode covers how premium matcha is made in Japan—from shaded tea fields and first-harvest leaves to stone grinding. We also discuss why the term “ceremonial grade” can be misleading, and how to find truly high-quality matcha. Learn more at ⁠zenkyumatcha.com⁠ or follow ⁠@zenkyu_matcha_jp⁠ on Instagram.

Jul 11, 2025•22 min•Season 1Ep. 3

#2 – Matcha vs. Coffee: Calm Focus or Quick Boost?

This episode covers the key differences between matcha and coffee—two familiar sources of energy with very different effects. While coffee is known for its fast, sharp boost, matcha offers calm, sustained focus thanks to the presence of L-Theanine. It also explores how this unique amino acid works in harmony with caffeine to create a balanced sense of alertness, without the crashes. The episode reflects on how these qualities connect to the idea of ritual, and how our daily choices shape energy ...

Jul 04, 2025•11 min•Season 1Ep. 2

#1 – Why I Created a Global Matcha Brand from Japan

In this first episode, Suji-san—founder of Zenkyu Matcha—shares why he started a global matcha brand from Japan. After years in global marketing, burnout led him to Zen, the Japanese tea ceremony, and a quiet ritual of tea that changed his life. Discover how matcha became more than a drink—and how one bowl can become a moment of clarity, stillness, and care. Learn more at zenkyumatcha.com or follow @zenkyu_matcha_jp on Instagram....

Jun 27, 2025•12 min•Season 1Ep. 1

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