The Culture of Matcha: Japanese Traditions in Summer (II)
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In the previous article about Japanese summer traditions, we peeked into the fascinating celebrations of Obon and Tanabata. I’m so fascinated by this culture that I tend to ramble on and then run out of space to continue discussing the topic.
So today, I’m diving into the second part, where I want to talk about Uchimizu and local festivals as well as other summer fairs.
What is Uchimizu?
Uchimizu is a traditional Japanese practice that involves sprinkling water on streets and gardens during hot summer days. This custom has several purposes: to refresh the environment, to clean away dust, and, symbolically, to show respect to neighbors and passersby. The act of sprinkling water is also believed to help cool the surroundings, as the water evaporates and lowers the ground temperature.
We can see this in many towns in Spain, but I love that in Japan, it has its own name.
Local Festivals and Summer Tea Fairs
During the summer in Japan, numerous festivals and fairs dedicated to tea are held, where matcha takes center stage. These events are a fantastic opportunity to discover and enjoy the various ways matcha is used and celebrated in Japanese culture. Some of the most famous festivals include:
- Kyoto Matcha Festival: An event celebrating matcha in the historic city of Kyoto, featuring tastings, exhibitions, and workshops.
- Shizuoka Tea Festival: Held in the region famous for tea production, this festival includes tastings of different varieties of matcha and other green teas.
Activities and Workshops
At these festivals and fairs, visitors can participate in a variety of activities and workshops related to matcha. Some typical activities include:
- Tastings: Sample different types of matcha while learning to appreciate the subtleties of its flavor and quality.
- Matcha Preparation Workshops: Learn to prepare matcha traditionally, guided by experts in the tea ceremony.
- Matcha Product Sales: Purchase high-quality matcha along with tea utensils and other related products.
Cultural Experiences
These events also offer very special cultural experiences that allow visitors to delve into the rich tradition of matcha. From participating in tea ceremonies to enjoying performances of traditional dance and music, matcha festivals are a window into Japan's cultural heritage.
If you’re up for it, you can enjoy live demonstrations on matcha preparation, attend exhibitions on the history and cultivation of tea, and engage in talks and discussions with tea experts. These experiences not only enrich your knowledge about matcha but also create unforgettable memories of Japanese culture.
While you think it over, why not head over to Matchaflix and prepare an authentic Japanese matcha? Enjoy!