Kyoto: where tradition and tea culture meet

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About Kyoto

Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is known far beyond the country's borders for its cultural depth and rich history. Nestled in rolling hills and blessed by countless temples, Kyoto presents a face that stands the test of time. But for the connoisseur of Japanese tea culture, Kyoto is far more than just a jewel of history - it is a place of inspiration and the source of a centuries-old tea tradition.

Kyoto is where Japanese tea unfolds its subtle sophistication and multi-layered elegance. The city and its surroundings, particularly the Uji region, are famous for the production of fine green tea, especially the famous matcha. The climatic conditions in Kyoto contribute significantly to the quality of the tea. The diffuse mists, gentle rainfall and fertile soil create an ideal environment for cultivating tea leaves. The conscientious manual work of the tea farmers, handed down from generation to generation, guarantees a harvest of the highest quality.

Matcha, the powdered green tea, is synonymous with Kyoto and Uji. This type of tea, which is perfected in the Zen Buddhist tea ceremony, is more than just a drink. It is a symbol of mindfulness and devotion. The production of matcha in the region is subject to strict rules: The tea leaves, called tencha, are placed under diffused light to increase their chlorophyll content and thus achieve the characteristic full flavor and bright green color. After harvesting and drying, the leaves are ground into a fine powder, always in stone mills, to achieve the optimum texture.

Kyoto is also the spiritual home of the tea ceremony. Closely interwoven with the philosophy of Zen Buddhism, the tea ceremony represents the harmony between man and nature, the transience of all things and the beauty of simplicity. The famous tea master Sen no Rikyū, who worked in Kyoto in the 16th century, revolutionized the tea ceremony and gave it a simplicity that still touches people today. The carefully executed movements, the handmade crockery and the silent meditation combine to create an experience of timeless meaning.

In Kyoto, tradition and innovation merge in a fascinating way. Although the practices are deeply rooted in the past, there is still room for new interpretations and creative approaches in the world of tea. In addition to traditional Matcha, Kyoto is also home to exquisite varieties of Sencha and Gyokuro, which are prized for their subtle sweetness and complex flavors.

Kyoto is not only a center for lovers of Japanese culture, but also a sacred land for tea devotees. Every sip from this region is a journey into the rich textures of history and the subtleties of nature, an experience that invigorates the senses and uplifts the spirit.