Sho no Mukashi (匠の昔 - "Master Craftsman of the Past") by Nakamura Tokichi is a well-rounded, light-bodied ceremonial matcha that delivers balanced umami with slightly sweet and nutty notes—a beginner-friendly yet refined blend perfect for everyday enjoyment. This approachable matcha was Urasenke Hounsai Sosho's favorite matcha, chosen by one of Japan's most respected tea masters, making it a distinguished choice that bridges traditional excellence with modern accessibility.

Founded in 1854, Nakamura Tokichi Honten is a historic tea house with over 170 years of heritage, established in Uji—the birthplace of Japanese tea culture. Known for their commitment to quality and tradition, Nakamura Tokichi has been serving premium Uji tea for generations, earning the trust of tea ceremony practitioners and everyday matcha enthusiasts alike. Their matcha is crafted using time-honored stone-grinding techniques, ensuring each batch maintains the vibrant color and delicate flavor that defines authentic Uji matcha.

Sho no Mukashi is characterized by its vibrant green color, creamy texture, and little astringency—offering a smooth, vegetal, and slightly floral experience with a lingering umami aftertaste. While some reviewers note it has a lighter profile compared to more intense blends, this makes it an excellent daily matcha that pairs beautifully with milk in lattes, where its umami notes hold up well without overwhelming. Recommended for both usucha (thin tea) and koicha (thick tea), this versatile matcha brings out different charms depending on preparation method.

About this matcha:

• Tea Master's Favorite: Chosen as the favorite matcha of Urasenke Hounsai Sosho, a highly respected tea ceremony grand master—a testament to its quality and refinement.
• Well-Rounded Flavor: Balanced umami with slightly sweet, nutty, and creamy notes—vegetal and floral with a lingering aftertaste that's smooth and approachable.
• Light-Bodied & Smooth: Little astringency and no bitterness—perfect for those new to matcha or seeking a gentle, everyday blend.
• Beginner-Friendly: Mild flavor profile makes it accessible for matcha newcomers while still offering enough complexity to satisfy regular drinkers.
• Versatile Preparation: Recommended for both usucha (thin tea) and koicha (thick tea)—each method brings out different charms of this adaptable matcha.
• Latte Excellence: Pairs perfectly with milk—umami notes hold up well in lattes, creating a creamy, balanced drink. Highly rated for matcha latte preparation.
• Affordable Quality: Excellent value for ceremonial-grade matcha—"quite affordable for the quality" according to reviewers, making daily matcha drinking accessible.
• Vibrant Color: Bright green hue reflects freshness and quality stone-grinding—creates beautiful foam when whisked.
• High Customer Rating: Rated 4.86 out of 5 stars based on 109 reviews—consistently praised as "one of the best matcha" customers have tried.
• 170+ Year Heritage: From a historic Uji tea house founded in 1854, carrying forward centuries of tea-making tradition and expertise.
• 100% Uji Origin: Shade-grown, stone-ground, and packaged in Uji, Kyoto—the birthplace of Japan's finest matcha.