My First Ceremonial Matcha Experience
There’s something unforgettable about your first ceremonial matcha — the anticipation, the curiosity, the “am I doing this right?” kind of moment. For me, that experience came in the form of Marukyu Koyamaen’s Chigi no Shiro, and I genuinely couldn’t have asked for a better introduction.
This was my very first time trying ceremonial-grade matcha, and to say I was excited is an understatement. Marukyu Koyamaen is a trusted name in the matcha world, and Chigi no Shiro is one of their most well-known blends for a reason. As soon as I opened the tin, I was hit with a rich, vibrant green powder and an aroma that was earthy, sweet, and slightly nutty — it already felt special.
Whisking it felt like a little ceremony in itself. The powder bloomed into a thick, velvety foam that looked and smelled divine. On first sip, I was genuinely surprised — in the best way. It was smooth and round, with a mellow umami and a gentle sweetness that lingered beautifully on the tongue. No bitterness, no sharp edges — just a clean, balanced cup that made me pause and appreciate the moment.
What struck me most about Chigi no Shiro was its approachability. As someone who was just starting to explore ceremonial matcha, I didn’t feel overwhelmed or confused by its flavor. It wasn’t trying too hard to impress — it just was. Subtle. Steady. Centering.
Looking back now, I’m really glad this was my first ceremonial matcha. It set the bar high but also made me realize that high-quality matcha doesn’t have to be intimidating. It can be gentle, grounding, and quietly beautiful — just like Chigi no Shiro.
