Matcha is finely stone-milled green tea powder made from shade-grown Camellia sinensis leaves. Shading the plants for 3–4 weeks before harvest forces them to produce more chlorophyll and L-theanine — giving matcha its vivid green colour, deep umami flavour, and calm, focused energy. Unlike steeped tea, you consume the whole leaf, making it far more nutrient-dense.

What is the difference between koicha and usucha?

Usucha (thin tea) is the everyday preparation — light, frothy, approachable. Koicha (thick tea) is a ceremonial preparation using twice the matcha and half the water, producing a rich, paste-like tea with intense umami. Koicha requires a higher grade matcha.

What matcha grades do you offer?

We offer ceremonial grade matcha using only the youngest first-flush leaves from shaded plants — stone-milled to a silky powder with natural sweetness and umami. Our Premium Matcha is our latte-grade — smooth and balanced for daily use, holding up beautifully in milk.

Hojicha is Japanese green tea roasted at high heat, transforming its colour from green to warm amber and its flavour to nutty, toasty, and caramel-like. Our Organic Yame Hojicha is JAS-certified organic, sourced from Yame, Fukuoka. Because roasting reduces caffeine, hojicha is a beautiful evening tea.

Where does your tea come from?

Our matcha is sourced from generational tea farmers in Uji, Kyoto — the birthplace of Japanese matcha culture. Our hojicha comes from Yame, Fukuoka. Both regions have centuries of tea-growing heritage.

How should I store matcha?

Keep your matcha tin sealed, away from light, heat, and moisture. Once opened, use within 4–6 weeks for best flavour. Store in a cool, dark cupboard — not the fridge, as condensation can affect the powder.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship to New Zealand, Australia, the UK, Europe, Canada, Singapore, and Japan.

Artisanal Round Kusenaoshi – Whisk Holder - Yamada Chaya

Artisanal Round Kusenaoshi – Whisk Holder (Available in 3 colours)

$45.00 NZD

Shipping calculated at checkout.

1 reviews

Handmade in Gifu, Japan | Minoware 美濃焼

This striking artisanal round kusenaoshi (くせ直し) is designed to maintain the delicate shape of your bamboo chasen, extending its lifespan and ensuring every whisk produces a perfect froth. The rounded form gently supports the tines, preventing bending or damage while allowing the whisk to dry naturally.

Made with exceptional attention to detail, its elegant, ribbed finish and deep forest green glaze reflect the elegance of Japanese craftsmanship.

Functional yet beautiful, this kusenaoshi is a refined addition to any tea ceremony area or modern kitchen.

Minoware has been crafted in Gifu for over 1,300 years, evolving through Japan’s tea culture of the Momoyama period and inspiring iconic styles like Shino and Oribe. Today, it remains one of Japan’s most celebrated ceramic traditions — blending timeless beauty with everyday functionality.

Details:

Material: Premium Japanese ceramic
Shape: Round, artisanal design
Maintains the shape and integrity of your matcha whisk
Lightweight, stable, and easy to clean
Origin: Japan

New Zealand: North Island $8. North Island Rural $12. South Island $15. South Island Rural $20. Orders over $100 NZD ship free. Free local delivery for postcodes 4310 and 4312.

Australia: NZ Post Economy Tracked $20 NZD. DHL Worldwide Express $35 NZD. Orders over $150 NZD ship free.

Europe: NZ Post Economy Tracked $35 NZD. DHL Worldwide Express $55 NZD. Orders over $250 NZD ship free.

Asia: Economy Tracked $25 NZD. DHL Worldwide Express $35 NZD. Orders over $250 NZD ship free.

Canada: DHL Worldwide Express $55 NZD. Orders over $250 NZD ship free.

United States: Shipping temporarily paused due to tariff changes.