Sayaka no Mukashi is a refined usucha matcha from Kyoto tea house Ippodo. Positioned within the producer's Rich classification, it offers greater depth, sweetness and umami than many of Ippodo's more approachable everyday blends whilst maintaining remarkable balance and drinkability.
Within the Ippodo range, Sayaka no Mukashi represents a step towards a more concentrated and traditional style of matcha. Rather than prioritising softness or creaminess alone, it introduces greater structure, savoury depth and lingering complexity whilst remaining approachable as a daily usucha.
The powder is a vibrant green with an elegant fragrance of sweet blossom, young greens and fresh cream. Whisked as usucha, it opens with gentle sweetness and bright vegetal notes reminiscent of spring greens and tender shoots. As the tea develops across the palate, deeper umami begins to emerge, supported by a smooth, creamy texture and a pleasing sense of weight.
A restrained bitterness, often reminiscent of citrus peel, provides lift and definition without overwhelming the cup. This interplay between sweetness, umami and gentle bitterness gives Sayaka no Mukashi a more layered profile than lighter usucha focused blends.
The finish is long, clean and satisfying, with lingering sweetness and savoury depth remaining long after the final sip. Whilst primarily intended for traditional usucha preparation, Sayaka no Mukashi possesses sufficient concentration to accommodate minimal milk applications, though its true character is best appreciated neat.
For drinkers seeking a more traditional and complete expression Sayaka no Mukashi offers an elegant introduction to the richer side of Ippodo's matcha collection.
Position Within the Range
Compared with Ikuyo no Mukashi and Kan No Shiro, Sayaka no Mukashi offers greater concentration, deeper umami and a longer finish. It serves as a natural progression for those seeking a more traditional expression of uji matcha before moving into Ippodo's highest usucha and koicha offerings.
Weight | 20g Box
Origin | Kyoto prefecture, Japan
Best suited for
• Usucha
• Traditional matcha preparation
• Matcha Latte. Holds up well with milk application
Enjoy with
• Castella cake
• Butter shortbread
• Almond biscuits
• Fresh strawberries
• White peach or pear
• Butter mochi
• Lightly sweetened red bean desserts
• Savoury dishes
Preparation Recommendations
Usucha (Thin Tea)
Recommended amount per cup: 2g (sift for a smoother, delicate consistency)
Servings Per Tin: Averages 10 cups of tea
Water Temperature: 60ml of water at 80ºC
Koicha (Thick Tea)
Recommended amount per cup: 4g (sift for a smoother, delicate consistency)
Servings per Tin: Averages 5 cups of tea
Water Temperature: 30ml of water at 80ºC
About the Producer
Founded in Kyoto in 1717, Ippodo Tea has spent more than three centuries dedicated to Japanese tea. Originally established as Omiya by Rihei Watanabe, the business later received the name Ippodo from Prince Yamashina in recognition of its commitment to preserving a singular standard of quality.
Today, Ippodo remains family owned and is overseen by the sixth and seventh generations. Whilst internationally recognised for matcha, the producer's expertise extends across the full spectrum of Japanese tea, from sencha and gyokuro through to everyday household favourites such as Mugicha.
For more than 300 years, Ippodo has focused on sourcing, blending and evaluating teas that are approachable, enjoyable and capable of enriching daily life. This philosophy continues to guide the producer today, whether crafting exceptional ceremonial matcha or some of Japan's most respected leaf teas.
