Yamamasa Koyamaen 山政小山園 - Shikibu no Mukashi 式部の昔

A luxurious matcha with poetic depth, Shikibu no Mukashi is perfect for those seeking a uniquely rich and full-bodied thin tea (usucha). Exceptionally creamy and sweet, it carries delicate aromas of toasted seeds and delivers a lingering umami finish. Its flavor doesn’t rely on bold notes—instead, it refines and intensifies soft, elegant nuances. Thanks to its outstanding quality, this matcha can also be prepared as a thick tea (koicha), offering a truly ceremonial experience.

The name draws inspiration from Japan’s Heian Era. “Shikibu” referred to the Ministry of Ceremonies, overseeing court protocol and appointments. It also evokes the refined elegance of literary figures like Murasaki Shikibu and Izumi Shikibu—renowned women of the imperial court whose legacy of grace and sophistication is echoed in every sip of this tea.