The Ochanico Story: Why We Chose Chinese Matcha Over Japanese — Returning to the Origin of Calm

Every sip of matcha tells a story — one that began high in the misty mountains of China, where tea leaves were first steamed, dried, and ground into fine green powder.

Before Japan made it ceremonial, China made it possible.
Matcha’s origins trace back to the Tang Dynasty, when Buddhist monks drank whisked tea to stay calm and focused during meditation.

Centuries later, that same spirit lives on — and at Ochanico, we’re proud to bring matcha home to where it all began.


🍃 From China’s Highlands to Your Cup

Our matcha is sourced from the lush, shaded highlands of Zhejiang, one of China’s oldest tea-growing regions.
Here, fertile soil, mountain mist, and gentle spring sunlight create the perfect balance of nutrients for matcha leaves to thrive.

Each leaf is handpicked and stone-ground in small batches, preserving its vivid jade color, creamy texture, and clean, earthy aroma.

It’s not mass-produced — it’s crafted with care, the way tea was meant to be.


🇨🇳 Why We Chose China Over Japan

For many people, “matcha” instantly brings Japan to mind — and we love that. Japan elevated the ritual, turning matcha into art.
But at Ochanico, we wanted to go back to the roots.

Here’s why:

1. The True Origin

Matcha was first created in China over a thousand years ago, long before it reached Japan. By sourcing from China, we’re not just buying tea — we’re reviving the birthplace of matcha and honoring centuries of tea craftsmanship.

2. Rich Soil, Natural Growth

China’s tea highlands, especially in Zhejiang, offer naturally shaded terrain, allowing leaves to develop deep chlorophyll and umami flavor without artificial covers or chemicals.
That means cleaner, more sustainable cultivation — better for the planet and your body.

3. A Modern Take on Tradition

While Japan’s matcha industry is steeped in ceremonial standards, China’s new-generation tea makers are blending tradition with innovation — using low-heat grinding, eco-friendly farming, and lab-tested quality control.
This lets us craft matcha that’s vibrant, smooth, and versatile — perfect for both your morning whisk and your Biscoff dessert.

4. Transparency and Quality

Our farmers partner directly with Ochanico to ensure full traceability — from leaf to tin. Every batch is tested for heavy metals, micro-contaminants, and L-theanine content before it reaches you.

In short, we chose China not because it’s easier — but because it’s authentic.
Because that’s where matcha was born, and where its next chapter begins.


💚 The Founder’s Personal Story

I’ve always been an easy-going eater — from nasi lemak at hawker centres to late-night prata runs

But coffee? Never. Even when my NTU friends swore by their triple-shot lattes to survive finals, I was the odd one out.

That’s when my love affair with tea began — and it wasn’t just any tea.
Matcha, with its earthy vibes and brilliant green hue, stole my heart.

I became obsessed with perfecting the smoothest, frothiest, most vibrant matcha drinks — determined to create the greenest, dreamiest sip in the world.

That obsession became a purpose: to make matcha that fits real life — calm energy that fuels creativity, focus, and good vibes.

And that’s how Ochanico was born.


🍵 What “Ochanico” Means

Ocha (お茶) = Tea
Nico = from Nicomaru (Japanese for “smile”)*

Together, it means “Tea that makes you smile.”

Because matcha isn’t just a drink — it’s a bridge.

🌏 Tea is a bridge — between cultures and people.
💚 Matcha matches everything — from picnics to deep talks.
😄 Tea = good vibes — shared with besties.


☀️ For the New Generation of Tea Lovers

Ochanico is more than a brand — it’s a vibe zone for Gen Z tea lovers who crave calm energy with character.
It’s for dreamers, doers, creators, and chill souls who want to stay focused, present, and happy.

Our matcha is pure, smooth, and sustainably sourced — made to bring calm, creative energy to your day, one whisk at a time.

Because tea shouldn’t be serious.
It should make you — and your buddies — smile.


✨ Sip Calm, Stay Bright

👉 Shop Ochanico Matcha


💫 Stay Connected with Ochanico

Loved this read? Let’s keep the calm going.
Follow Ochanico for daily matcha moments, brewing tips, and mindful lifestyle inspiration.

📸 Instagram: @ochanico

📘 Facebook: Ochanico

🎵 TikTok: @ochanico.sg

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