How to Choose the Perfect Matcha Set for Beginners: Practical Tips

Matcha has gained immense popularity worldwide—not only as a healthy coffee substitute but also as part of a daily mindfulness ritual. Brewing it, while simple, is based on a tradition dating back centuries. If you're new to matcha, a carefully selected starter kit will help you derive maximum enjoyment from this green ritual. Here's everything you need to know before choosing your first kit.

A Brief History of Matcha: Tea with a Zen Spirit

Matcha originated in China, where as early as the 10th century, Buddhist monks ground the tea into powder and brewed it during meditation. However, it was in Japan that matcha developed fully, thanks to Master Eisai, who brought it from China in the 12th century . This tea became a central element of the Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu )—a practice of concentration, aesthetics, and simplicity.

Why is this important? When you choose a matcha set, you're choosing more than just tools—you're participating in a centuries-old tradition.

What should a good beginner kit include?

Matcha – the heart of the set

Choose ceremonial-grade matcha – it's the smoothest powder from the first harvest, without a bitter aftertaste, and ideal for drinking on its own with water. Avoid cheaper "culinary-grade" versions to start with – they're more intense, but intended for baking or smoothies.

Tip: Good matcha has a vibrant green color, almost neon. A pale, yellowish powder is a sign of poor quality or expired.

Chasen – bamboo whisk

This is the basic tool for whisking matcha. Traditionally crafted from a single piece of bamboo, the chasen whisk produces a distinctive foam and silky consistency.

Fun fact: Making a single whisk by hand can take up to several hours! There are different types of chasens – for everyday use, the version with around 80–100 "teeth" is best.

Chawan – matcha bowl

A chawan isn't just a vessel—it's an integral part of the Japanese aesthetic. The bowl should be wide and deep to allow for comfortable pounding. For beginners, sturdy, straight-sided ceramic chawans are best.

In Japanese aesthetic tradition, there is a concept of wabi-sabi —the beauty of imperfection, simplicity, and transience. Many matcha bowls are handmade, with irregular textures, asymmetry, and subtle cracks—which are not flaws, but expressions of authenticity.

Fun fact: Some chawans are intentionally "repaired" with gold ( kintsugi ), highlighting the beauty of the wear and tear and history of the item.

Tip: Choose a cup color that contrasts with the matcha green – dark browns, navy blues or deep grays will highlight the intense color of the drink.

Chashaku – bamboo spoon

A chashaku is a traditional spoon for scooping matcha—each serving is approximately 1–2 chashakus. It may seem unnecessary, but it allows for precise measuring and adds authenticity to the entire process. In the Japanese tea ceremony, every gesture is significant—even the way the chashaku powder is scooped expresses respect for the guests and the ritual itself.

Furui - matcha strainer

This is an often-overlooked, yet crucial, step. Sifted matcha prevents clump formation and is much easier to whip. This will result in a smooth, creamy consistency without lumps.

Quality or Price? How to Find the Golden Mean

The most important thing to remember first: it's worth investing in quality . A good matcha set will last for years and provide a better tasting experience. For example, a well-made whisk (chasen) is the key to perfectly frothed matcha.

Look for sets made of durable materials – bamboo, ceramic – that not only look beautiful but are also great for everyday use.

What materials should the set be made of?

Ceramics or wood?

Ceramic bowls are classic – they retain heat well, are durable, and often decorated with beautiful patterns. Wooden bowls have a more natural, rustic look and are lightweight, but they don't retain heat as well.

Bamboo or metal?

A traditional matcha whisk is made of bamboo. Its delicate fibers allow for a perfectly smooth, creamy foam. Metal whisks are more durable but less subtle, potentially damaging the powder's delicate structure.

A set for one person or a larger group?

If you plan to brew matcha just for yourself, a small set will suffice: one bowl, chasen, and chashaku. However, if you want to share this ritual with family or friends, consider a larger set, preferably with a larger bowl and an additional whisk.

Practical tips for choosing a set

• Pay attention to the origin of matcha . The best ones come from the Uji, Nishio, or Kagoshima regions of Japan.
• Choose sets that include at least a whisk and a cup . This way, you can start preparing your tea right away.
• Aesthetics matter. Drinking matcha isn't just about taste—it's also about ritual. Choose a set that you simply love.

How to care for your set?

Cleaning:

Rinse your tools with warm water after each use. Do not use detergents on the broom – they can damage the bamboo. Allow to dry naturally.

Storage:

Keep the set in a cool, dry place. Store the whisk upright to maintain its shape. Make sure the bowl is free of cracks.

When to replace tools?

Tool	Vitality	Care
Chasen (broom)	about 6 months	Rinse with water, store vertically
Chashaku (spoon)	1–2 years	Wash by hand, dry thoroughly
Chawan (bowl)	1–5 years	Hand wash, store in a dry place

Aesthetics of the set: more than just looks

In Japanese culture, form and function are inextricably linked. Every element of a matcha set—from the color of the bowl, to the texture of the clay, to the sound of the chasen whisk as it is whisked—is meant to appeal to the senses and provide pause.

Awareness of the moment, presence, and focus are key here. Therefore, it's worth choosing a set that calms you, inspires you, or simply pleases the eye – because these are not just accessories, but tools for a daily ritual.

Matcha as a gift – the perfect choice with soul

A matcha set is not only a practical gift but also a unique gesture – an invitation to experience Japanese culture. In Japan, matcha symbolizes hospitality, respect, and peace. Such a gift may have a deeper meaning than it seems.

Which set should you choose as a gift?

Look for sets that include all the basic elements (bowl, whisk, spoon) and come in elegant, aesthetically pleasing packaging. It's also worth considering unique patterns or handmade elements – they add a unique character to the set.

Sets for various occasions

Opportunity	Recommended set	Characteristics
For the tea ceremony	Exclusive set	Authentic tools, high quality
Every day​	Practical set	Easy to use, easy to store
A gift for special occasions (birthdays, weddings, etc.)	Decorative set	Elegant appearance, personalization possible

Where to buy a good matcha set?

If you are looking for a reliable place where you can find beautiful and functional matcha sets, be sure to check out the Royal Brand website .

There you will find both classic starter kits and elegant gift ideas:

• Starter set with a beautiful bowl, whisk and spoon + 100 g of organic matcha
• Starter set with chasen whisk and spoon - perfect for getting started
  
• A gift set with Japanese matcha and a bamboo whisk – perfect for special occasions
  
  

Each set combines authenticity, quality and aesthetics that make the ritual of brewing matcha a true pleasure.

Finally – matcha as a daily ritual

In a fast- paced world , matcha invites you to pause , even for a moment. Preparing it can become your daily mindfulness ritual . With a carefully selected set , you'll not only discover the unique flavor of this tea but also connect with its cultural roots.

A good matcha set is an investment in quality, ritual, and a moment for yourself. Whether you're just starting out or looking for a gift, choose functionality, durability, and beauty that will highlight the uniqueness of each cup.

Begin your tea journey with respect for tradition – but in your own style.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are matcha kits only for beginners?

Absolutely not! Matcha tea sets are perfect for both those just starting their matcha journey and more experienced matcha lovers. They provide beginners with everything they need to get started, and for enthusiasts, they can be a great way to expand their collection or replace worn-out accessories.

What is the best way to store matcha from the kit?

Matcha should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. It's best to store it in an airtight container—e.g., a tin or jar—to preserve its freshness, flavor, and properties for as long as possible.

Can I wash the matcha set components in the dishwasher?

It's best to avoid this. Traditional accessories, such as a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a spoon (chashaku), are delicate and can be damaged in the dishwasher. It's best to handwash them with warm water, without using harsh detergents. This will help them maintain their shape and durability for longer.