This is another question I received from a lovely guest the other day during the tea ceremony. At the time, I answered \u201cyes\u201d\u2014but later I realized that wasn\u2019t entirely accurate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Role of Sweets in Tea Ceremony<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When I answered my guest, I explained it like this: This is true in most cases. The gentle sweetness of traditional Japanese confections balances the natural bitterness of matcha, allowing you to fully appreciate its taste and aroma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But later, I remembered something I had almost forgotten.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A Surprising Exception: Daitokuji Natto<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n While reading a novel about Sen no Rikyu, the legendary tea master of the 16th century, I came across an important detail. In the story, a samurai asks a Zen monk for tea. The monk replies: That moment reminded me\u2014of course! There is something else that can be served before matcha.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s called Daitokuji Natto<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tea Ceremony and Zen Buddhism<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As I\u2019ve mentioned in a previous post, the tea ceremony is deeply connected to Zen Buddhism. Zen monks are known for their disciplined lifestyle. I once visited Eiheiji<\/em> Temple, a famous Zen temple, where even famous people like Steve Jobs longed to train.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Life there begins before dawn\u2014meditation, chanting, cleaning, simple meals, more cleaning, and study. Meals are strictly vegetarian and minimal. There is no room for indulgent sweets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, instead of sugary treats, Daitokuji Natto<\/em> was offered at the temple in the novel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Does It Taste Like?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Daitokuji Natto<\/em> is made from soybeans, but it\u2019s completely different from the sticky fermented natto<\/em> many people know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s: The first time I tried it as a student, I remember thinking, \u201cWhat is this powerful flavor?!\u201d Honestly, I didn\u2019t like it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yesterday, I revisited it with my family. My son said, \u201cIt\u2019s bad.\u201d My husband said, \u201cIt\u2019s very salty. This flavor… surprised me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n But for me, something had changed. At first, I tasted a strong salty flavor, but as I let it linger on my tongue, a deeper, more complex note began to emerge\u2014almost like a hint of dark chocolate in the distance. It became\u2026 surprisingly enjoyable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And then I had a cup of matcha afterward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The result?<\/p>\n\n\n\n A calm, satisfying \u201cahh\u2026\u201d moment. The tea tasted wonderful, as always.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A Familiar Comparison<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019ve ever tried Japanese miso or Australian Vegemite, you might recognize a similar experience. So, Do You Always Eat Sweets Before Matcha?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The answer is: Most of the time, yes\u2014but not always.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the tea ceremony, sweets are typically served to enhance the matcha experience. However, in rare cases\u2014especially in Zen-influenced settings\u2014something savory like Daitokuji Natto<\/em> may be offered instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Experience It Yourself<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Reading about tea is one thing\u2014but experiencing might be something different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In our tea ceremony sessions, you\u2019ll not only enjoy authentic matcha and traditional sweets, but also discover the stories and subtle details behind every movement and taste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether it\u2019s your first time or you\u2019re deeply curious about Japanese culture, we would love to welcome you.<\/p>\n\n\n
\u201cIn the Japanese tea ceremony, the greatest treat is actually the bowl of matcha itself. Sweets are served beforehand to enhance the flavor of the tea\u2014not to be the main attraction.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe are a Zen temple. We do not have sweets.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Small, dark, and firm
Salty, with a strong, unique aroma
Surprisingly intense at first<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Salty, strong, and unique\u2014surprising at first, but umami-rich and nourishing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n