The essential matcha accessories

Matcha is more than just powdered green tea; it’s a true ritual, a unique experience. The right matcha accessories can elevate this moment, whether you're an experienced matcha lover or just beginning to explore traditional matcha preparation. Here’s a guide to the must-have tools for making and enjoying this green treasure in the best conditions.

 

1. Chawan: The matcha bowl

The chawan is the traditional bowl used for preparing and drinking matcha. It’s more than just a container—it’s the centerpiece of the ritual. Its dimensions are designed for whisking the matcha properly. Made from ceramics, porcelain, or clay, each chawan has its own personality and style, from modern, minimalist lines to richly decorated artisanal pieces. Choosing your chawan is like connecting to your own tea ritual.

Tip: If you’re a beginner, opt for a slightly flared chawan, as it will make whisking easier. For purists, a clay bowl from Japan offers both visual and tactile delight.

 

2. Chasen: The matcha whisk

The chasen is a bamboo whisk, essential for mixing matcha with hot water. Its fine tines (usually 80 to over 100) help create a fine, frothy texture—a sign of perfectly prepared matcha. It’s the tool that makes the difference between a smooth, well-emulsified matcha and a lumpy one.

Tip: Choose a chasen based on your experience level: whisks with fewer tines are stiffer and suitable for beginners, while those with more tines create a frothier texture but require more technique.

 

3. Chashaku: The matcha scoop

The chashaku is the traditional bamboo scoop used to measure matcha. Its curved shape allows you to scoop the perfect amount, about 1 gram per serving. Its elegant, minimal design complements the movement of scooping the powder, adding a sense of ritual to your matcha preparation.

Tip: While a regular spoon works, the chashaku brings precision and a deeper connection to the traditional tea-making experience. A must for matcha enthusiasts!

 

4. Furui: The matcha sifter

The furui is a small sieve, often made of stainless steel, used to sift matcha before preparation. This breaks up any clumps and ensures a fine, smooth powder essential for a uniform froth and silky texture. It’s a step often overlooked, but it makes all the difference!

Tip: Always sift your matcha before preparing it, even if it looks fine. This prevents lumps from ruining the texture.

 

5. Kusenaoshi: The chasen holder

This ceramic holder is designed to maintain the shape of your chasen after use. After each preparation, rinse your whisk with warm water and place it on the kusenaoshi to dry, keeping its tines properly open. This accessory prolongs the life of your whisk.

Tip: If you’ve invested in a quality chasen, the kusenaoshi is essential to keep it in good condition—an important long-term investment!

 

6. Shakoshi: The matcha pin

Less well-known, the shakoshi is a small bamboo pin used to clean matcha residue from the chashaku or the edges of the chawan. A handy little tool for perfectionists who want their accessories to stay spotless!

Tip: If you love attention to detail, the shakoshi will help you maintain the beauty of your matcha tools.

 

Why Invest in Matcha Accessories?

Traditional matcha accessories bring an extra layer of mindfulness to the matcha experience. Beyond their function, they help create a moment of calm and contemplation. Taking the time to select your tools and use them with care allows you to appreciate each step of the tea-making process, from the sound of the whisk to the smell of freshly sifted matcha. A sensory journey far beyond instant tea!

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your matcha rituals, these accessories are both practical tools and companions on the path to a richer, more peaceful experience. So, are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of matcha?