Among the benefits of matcha is how it offers a slow release of caffeine, thus avoiding the spike-then-slump of coffee and some teas. Hence we love it in a green smoothie to kick off the day: add a teaspoon or two to a blender with a banana, some spinach, nut milk of your choice, plus ice. Then whiz it up, and away you go!

But the health benefits of matcha go way beyond sustained mental clarity and feeling a good first thing. Key among them are the plant-derived antioxidants called catechins, of which one – epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) – is found in particularly high quantities in matcha. Studies have found that, among other things, EGCG can help neutralise free radicals, fight cancer and reduce 'bad' LDL cholesterol. In addition, matcha is high in amino acids, especially L-theanine, associated with easing anxiety and helping with relaxation and sleep.

Why not explore other similar Japanese matcha powders

If you're looking to make a top-quality tea out of this powerhouse green powder, we recommend our authentic Japanese Organic Matcha, silky-smooth Ceremonial Grade Matcha and Organic Ceremonial Grade Matcha teas. Alternatively, you can experience two of Japan's most famous tea exports in a caddy of clean-tasting Sencha Matcha or, for the vegetal characters of matcha combined with the comforting notes of toasted rice, our Genmaicha Iri Matcha. And if you're keen to redefine what a matcha latte should be about, please try our special mix made with cacao, toffee and cinnamon. Whipped to perfection with your preferred milk, it's a sublimely smooth and creamy way to enjoy all the benefits of matcha powder.

Want to make matcha green tea properly? It would help if you had a couple of tools, including a bowl and the traditional bamboo whisk called a chasen. Kit yourself up with all the Matcha Essentials from our range of Teaware, and read more about the traditional tea ceremony, for which our Ceremonial Grade Matcha is named, in our Tea Journal.

Strong seasonality defines this region. The summers are short and warm, with temperatures between 21°C and 30°C. As the season ends, autumn begins to see the temperature slowly drop over the months into the winter season, where temperatures hover between 4°C and 13°C. As winter ends, the spring allows temperatures to gently climb until they once again reach summer.

Across the year, the sky is mostly cloudy to overcast and brings with it low to medium amounts of rainfall. However, there is significant cloud cover and much larger amounts of rainfall during the summer months. In combination with warm temperatures, humidity peaks at 98% and contrasts the late autumn to winter months, where the air is typically very dry. In terms of wind, cool, blustery gales are picked up across the sea and brought inland all year long.

However, summer sees a much lower, more gentle breeze. The Bay, where the ocean waters meet the estuaries of the Kiso Three, Nikko and Honai rivers, is famous for its fish and seaweed. The Ise-Shima national park, on the southernmost tip of the bay, is home to loggerhead turtles, as well as native species of hibiscus and spider lily.