About Us
Ai Matcha was born from a deep-rooted connection to Japan’s tea culture.
I grew up in Tsubaki, a region of Suzuka City in Mie Prefecture, known for its rich tradition of tea production. Surrounded by tea farms and families who had cultivated tea for generations, I was immersed in the world of tea from a young age.
When I was in elementary school, with the support of local tea farmers, I had the chance to join spring tea harvests, carefully picking tea leaves by hand. One of my fondest memories is enjoying freshly picked tea leaves as tempura—a seasonal tradition that brought warmth and connection to our community.
In high school, I joined the tea ceremony club and learned how to prepare tea with precision and mindfulness. At home, my family always prioritized quality tea over convenience—we never drank bottled tea, only the finest loose-leaf varieties. Over time, I developed a natural ability to recognize the quality of tea and gained a deep appreciation for its cultural and emotional value.
As a Japanese woman raised in this tradition, tea has always been more than a drink—it’s part of my identity. I created Ai Matcha to share this heritage with the world. The name “Ai” (愛) means love in Japanese, reflecting not only the love I have for matcha but also the dedication of the farmers, the passion behind each harvest, and the care poured into every cup.
Ai Matcha is not just matcha—it’s a story, a tradition, and a gift from the heart of Japan.