What is the difference between Ogurayama and Samidori matcha?

Both are Yamamasa Koyamaen ceremonial matcha for usucha (thin tea). Samidori is slightly more approachable and beginner-friendly, while Ogurayama offers a richer, more complex flavor — making it our best-seller for regular tea ceremony use.

Is Yamamasa Koyamaen matcha good for beginners?

Yes. We recommend starting with SAMIDORI or MATSUKAZE — both are entry-level usucha grades that are smooth, balanced, and easy to whisk. OGURAYAMA is ideal once you want a step up in depth.

Where can I buy Yamamasa Koyamaen matcha online?

MatchaJP ships Yamamasa Koyamaen matcha directly from Japan to over 80 countries worldwide. All grades are available on this page.

What is the difference between usucha and koicha matcha?

Usucha (thin tea) uses about 2g of matcha per 70ml of water and is the most common preparation. Koicha (thick tea) uses 3–4g per 40ml and requires a higher grade of matcha such as Tennohzan, Kaguraden, or Kasuga-no-Mukashi.

Collection: Yamamasa Koyamaen Matcha – Ceremonial Matcha from Uji | MatchaJP

Yamamasa Koyamaen tea fields in Uji, Kyoto – shade-grown ceremonial matcha

Yamamasa Koyamaen Matcha – Ceremonial Matcha from Uji, Japan

Shop Yamamasa Koyamaen matcha — one of Japan's most respected ceremonial tea producers, based in Uji, Kyoto. Choose from a full lineup spanning smooth usucha (thin tea) to rich koicha (thick tea), shipped directly from Japan.

OriginUji, Kyoto, Japan

StyleDeep umami, smooth texture

Best forUsucha to premium koicha

ShippingDirectly from Japan

Not sure which grade? Start here

Why choose Yamamasa Koyamaen?

Feature

Details

Tea origin

Uji, Kyoto Ceremonial grade

Authentic Japanese ceremonial matcha from Uji — one of Japan's most respected producing regions, with over 600 years of tea history.

Flavor profile

Deep umami Smooth Trusted quality

Known for refined texture and a well-balanced taste used in traditional tea ceremony and daily preparation alike.

Grade range

Usucha Koicha Premium grades

From approachable entry-level matcha (Samidori, Matsukaze) to high-grade ceremonial selections (Kaguraden, Kasuga-no-Mukashi) — the full Koyamaen lineup in one place.