About Furicha

Furicha, a fascinating and equally traditional method of tea preparation, stems from the long history of Japanese tea culture. It is emblematic of the harmonious interplay of simplicity and sophistication that has always characterized the Japanese art of tea enjoyment. The origin of furicha, which literally means "beaten tea", can be traced back to Japan during the Heian period (794-1185). Although less common today, this method of preparation has a special magic associated with the nostalgia of times gone by.

The furicha technique is unique. Unlike the use of matcha, which has been modernized over the centuries, furicha is made from a ground tea called funmatsu-cha. This involves finely ground tea leaves, which usually come from highland tea gardens. The focus here is on the texture of the tea powder and the craftsmanship of the preparation.

To prepare the furicha, the tea powder is poured over with hot water in a bowl and then whisked with a traditional tea whisk until a frothy surface forms. These whisks, known as "chasen" in Japan, are often made of bamboo and testify to the connection with natural materials and the care that is omnipresent in Japanese tea culture. The art of whisking requires skill, as the movement must be smooth and rhythmic in order to create an even foam.

Enjoying furicha is an aesthetic experience that appeals to the senses. The velvety tip of the foam arouses curiosity and invites you to explore the full-bodied liquid underneath. The tea itself offers a harmonious balance between the mild sweetness of the powdered tea and a slight bitterness that reveals its depth and complexity. The color of the finished tea, a bright jade green hue, enhances the pleasure and appeals to the visual sensibility.

For the modern tea drinker, Furicha represents a bridge to a culture long gone and opens up an approach to viewing tea as more than just a drink. It is a ritual, a break in the hectic pace of life, an opportunity to connect with art and nature. Many facets of Japanese culture are expressed in this ritualistic method of preparation - from the appreciation of simplicity to meditative serenity.

Although furicha is not enjoyed with the same frequency as other types of Japanese tea, its beauty remains undeniable for those who discover it. For the true connoisseur, Furicha represents an invitation to fully enjoy Japan's cultural heritage and embark on a pleasurable, sensual journey through the realm of subtle flavors and artisanal precision.