Tea Blog

Origins and Evolution of the Chinese Tea Ceremony When we sip tea prepared through the meticulous process known as Gongfu Cha, we're participating in a tradition that stretches back through centuries of Chinese cultural history. This elaborate approach to tea preparation transcends mere beverage...

The warm weather has arrived, and with it comes the need for refreshing beverages that energize without weighing you down. Enter matcha – the vibrant green Japanese tea powder that offers the perfect balance of energizing caffeine and calming L-theanine. Unlike coffee's jittery rush, matcha provi...

Toronto's Tea Renaissance Toronto's tea scene has transformed dramatically, evolving from standard café offerings into a rich collection of authentic tea experiences. This cultural renaissance reflects the city's multicultural identity, with traditional Asian tea ceremonies and modern bubble tea...

When we talk about matcha at ICHA TEA, customers often ask us: "Do Japanese people actually drink matcha the traditional way, or is it just for tourists?" The question reveals a common misconception that matcha might be more of a cultural artifact than a living part of Japanese daily life. The re...

Discover why the traditional matcha grading system is misleading and how to find your perfect match regardless of labels When you begin exploring the world of matcha, you'll quickly encounter two terms that dominate the conversation: "ceremonial grade" and "culinary grade." These classifications ...

The potential effects of white, green, oolong, black, and pu-erh teas on your body and how to enjoy them safely Tea is one of the world's most beloved beverages, enjoyed for its diverse flavors and potential health benefits. From delicate white tea to robust pu-erh, each variety offers unique c...

The Spectrum of Oolong Teas Oolong tea stands as perhaps the most diverse tea category, offering an extraordinary range of flavours within a single classification. This remarkable variety stems from oolong's unique position on the oxidation spectrum, anywhere from 10% to 80%, creating a bridge be...

Curious about matcha but unsure what to expect from your first sip? The distinctive taste of matcha green tea has captivated tea enthusiasts worldwide, but its unique flavour profile can be difficult to describe to newcomers. Whether you're matcha-curious or looking to deepen your appreciation, u...

At over $1,400 per gram for its rarest varieties, Da Hong Pao isn't just tea—it's liquid history, commanding prices that exceed gold. This legendary oolong from China's Wuyi Mountains has earned its status as the "King of Tea" through centuries of reverence and a fascinating origin story involvin...