The Origin of Japan’s Sweetened Green Tea: How It Differs from Matcha
When Japanese people refer to “green tea,” they may not be talking about the traditional unsweetened beverage. Instead, they might mean a sweetened powdered green tea drink, often served cold—especially in summer. This version of green tea, known simply as “Green Tea” in Japan, is relatively modern and quite different from traditional matcha or sencha. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Japan’s sweetened green tea, how it developed, and how it compares to matcha.
1. The History of Green Tea in Japan
Green tea first arrived in Japan during the 8th century, brought back by envoys from China. Initially, it was consumed mainly for medicinal purposes by aristocrats and monks. In the 12th century, monk Eisai introduced powdered tea processing from China, marking the beginning of Japan’s matcha culture. Over time, matcha became deeply intertwined with Zen Buddhism and evolved into the formal tea ceremony known as “sado”.
2. The Birth of Sweetened Green Tea
What modern Japanese call “green tea” (グリーンティー) — the sweetened, powdered kind — didn’t appear until the mid-20th century, around the 1950s–1970s (the Showa era).
- Instant powdered green tea that dissolves in cold water was developed.
- Sugar and glucose were added to make it more appealing to children.
- It gained popularity as a refreshing, sweet summer drink in homes and cafés.
This version became especially popular in the Kansai region (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara) and remains a nostalgic summer staple in many traditional Japanese cafés.
3. Key Differences: Sweetened Green Tea vs. Matcha
| Feature | Sweetened Green Tea | Matcha |
|---|---|---|
| Production | Powdered green tea + sugar | Stone-ground powdered tea leaves |
| Preparation | Mixed with cold water or milk | Whisked with hot water |
| Flavor | Light, sweet, and refreshing | Rich, slightly bitter, and umami-rich |
| Usage | Cold drinks, desserts | Tea ceremony, sweets, specialty drinks |
While some sweetened green teas may use matcha as a base, the two are clearly different in how they’re made, consumed, and perceived.
4. The Unique Meaning of “Green Tea” in Japan
Although the term “green tea” originates from English, its meaning has shifted in Japan. In English-speaking countries, “green tea” usually refers to unsweetened steeped tea like sencha or even matcha. But in Japan, it can mean a sweetened powder-based drink, often cold.
This cultural difference can lead to confusion, especially when marketing products internationally. Clear labeling—such as “Sweetened Green Tea Powder”—is essential when selling these drinks outside Japan.
5. Regional Recognition Across Japan
The sweetened green tea drink is especially well-known in western Japan, particularly in Kyoto and Osaka. It’s a classic menu item at traditional Japanese-style cafés. However, in other regions like Tokyo or Hokkaido, it’s less familiar and often mistaken for matcha-flavored drinks. The perception of what “green tea” means varies by region.
Conclusion
Japan’s sweetened green tea is a relatively recent invention, emerging in the postwar Showa era as a fun, drinkable twist on traditional tea culture. While it shares some similarities with matcha, it is a distinct beverage category with its own flavor, preparation, and cultural context. As part of Japan’s evolving tea tradition, sweetened green tea continues to offer a unique taste of nostalgia and refreshment, especially during the hot summer months.
