Collection: Yōkiro Matcha — Ceremonial & Traditional

Yōkiro is Japanese matcha produced in the Aichi and Shizuoka regions — two prefectures with centuries of tea-growing tradition, where volcanic soil, the right climate, and precise harvesting translate directly into what ends up in the cup. The tea plants are shade-grown before harvest, slowing photosynthesis and causing the leaves to accumulate higher levels of L-theanine and chlorophyll — the compounds responsible for natural sweetness, deep umami, and the powder's intensely green color.

After harvesting, the leaves are steamed, dried, destemmed, and stone-ground. Yōkiro does not use mechanical milling — the slow stone-grinding process preserves the silky texture and full aroma that separate premium matcha from mass-produced alternatives.

The Yōkiro matcha range is built around a grading system, not marketing names. Each grade corresponds to a different harvest moment and a different intended use:

• 01 Master's Ceremonial — the highest grade in the range. Made from the first spring harvest of the youngest leaves. Intense, creamy, with deep umami and natural sweetness. Intended for drinking with water only — in its purest form, nothing added.
• 02 Ceremonial — first harvest, smooth and balanced. A strong entry point into ceremonial matcha — works well with water and equally as a base for matcha latte.
• 03 Traditional — a blend of first and second harvest leaves. A harmonious balance between delicacy and clear character. Versatile — for daily drinking, latte, smoothies, and cold drinks.

Not sure where to start? The Sample Box includes samples of all three grades — a way to compare flavors before committing to a full pack.

Yōkiro matcha is prepared the same way as any good Japanese matcha. Measure 1.5–2 g of powder, sift it into a bowl, and add 70–80 ml of water at 75–80°C. Whisk vigorously with a chasen for 20–30 seconds in an M-shaped motion until a thick, fine foam forms. Grades 01 and 02 are best enjoyed in this pure form. Grade 03 works equally well with milk or a plant-based alternative as a matcha latte.

You will need a bamboo chasen whisk and a chawan bowl. All accessories are available in the matcha accessories collection. If you prefer to start with a set, see our starter sets.

Yōkiro was chosen for its transparency of origin and consistent quality standard across the entire range. Alongside matcha, Yōkiro also offers hojicha and rooibos in powder form — milled using the same method, for those looking for premium Japanese tea beyond the matcha category.