Hello everybody! I can’t believe it’s already August and time for Obon! Will you visit your family or just relax at home? Whatever you decide to do, please enjoy this special time and stay cool.
Today, we will discuss the worldwide matcha boom and interesting details connected to this trend! As almost all of you know, matcha is a special green tea powder from right here in Japan. Interestingly, people around the world are drinking it in lattes, smoothies, and using it in desserts. Recently, it has become so popular that there is not enough to go around. Most matcha is made in Japan, but very hot summer weather damaged the tea plants and reduced the harvest.
Because farmers picked fewer leaves, the price of matcha has gone up to the highest level ever. One farmer from Uji, Kyoto said he usually harvests two tons of tea leaves, but this year he could only get 1.5 tons. Last year’s extreme heat damaged the bushes, so they couldn’t harvest as many leaves.
Tourism is making the shortage worse. Many visitors to Japan buy matcha to take home, sometimes in large amounts. Social media has also made matcha more famous than ever. Some stores say demand has grown tenfold, and they often sell out quickly. Even traditional Japanese tea ceremonies are having trouble getting enough matcha.
On one hand, the popularity of matcha across the world is great for the preservation of Japanese culture and tradition. On the other hand, this growing interest in matcha has created a shortage and caused prices to sharply increase both inside and outside of Japan.
What do you think about this situation? Are you surprised by this matcha boom? Please tell us what you think when you come to BRIDGE again. Have a great Obon and take care.
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