Same Matcha, Different Names: The Tradition of Chamei (Tea Names)
Hello everyone, I’m Keko, one of the online staff members.
If you’ve ever explored our matcha selection, you may have come across these four names:
Senun no Shiro (鮮雲の白, せんうんのしろ)
Hiroha no Shiro (廣葉の白, ひろはのしろ)
Seikan no Shiro (清閑の白, せいかんのしろ)
Yukawa no Shiro (夕川の白, ゆうかわのしろ)
Since they are all sold at the same price, many customers ask:
"Do they have different flavors?"
The answer is actually no—the matcha inside is exactly the same!
So, what’s the difference?
The answer lies in the tea name (茶銘, chamei).
What is a Chamei (Tea Name)?
In the world of Japanese tea ceremony, high-quality matcha is often given a special tea name, or "chamei" (茶銘).
These names are not just labels—they carry deep cultural and historical meaning. They are chosen by the grand masters (お家元, oiemoto) of different tea schools (流派, ryūha), and each school has its own preferences for matcha names.
Why Do These Matcha Have Different Names?
While the matcha inside is the same, each of these four names reflects the poetic and aesthetic philosophy of different tea schools.
🍵 The Meaning Behind Each Name
Senun no Shiro (鮮雲の白, Fresh Clouds White)
→ Symbolizes purity and clarity, like a bright cloud in the sky after rain.
Hiroha no Shiro (廣葉の白, Broad Leaves White)
→ Represents lush, flourishing tea leaves, evoking a sense of vitality.
Seikan no Shiro (清閑の白, Serene Silence White)
→ Embodies calm and tranquility, ideal for meditation in tea ceremonies.
Yukawa no Shiro (夕川の白, Evening River White)
→ Reflects the gentle, flowing nature of a river at dusk, bringing a peaceful atmosphere.
Each tea school adopts a name that resonates with its traditions, values, and aesthetic sense.
A Deeper Connection to Tea Culture
For those practicing tea ceremony, using the correct chamei ensures that the matcha aligns with the school’s traditions. But even if you’re just enjoying matcha at home, understanding the meaning behind these names can make your tea experience more enriching.
Next time you choose a matcha, remember—it's not just about flavor. It’s about history, tradition, and the beauty of tea culture.
I hope this little insight adds an extra touch of appreciation to your next cup of matcha. 🍵✨