Why More Malaysians Are Embracing Matcha, Sencha, and Hojicha in Their Daily Routines

Over the past few years, there’s been a noticeable shift in how Malaysians enjoy their daily drinks, and Japanese tea is right at the heart of it. From cozy cafés in Bangsar to quiet mornings at home, more people are swapping their usual coffee or teh ais for matcha lattes, sencha brews, or a comforting cup of roasted hojicha. But why the growing love for Japanese tea?

And it’s not just a local trend, the numbers speak for themselves. According to Data Bridge Market Research, the global matcha market size was valued at USD 3.96 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 7.32 billion by 2032. The Asia-Pacific region, which includes Malaysia, accounts for the largest market share and is forecasted to reach over USD 3.8 billion by 2030. This shows a clear and growing interest in matcha and Japanese tea products, driven by both health-conscious choices and a deeper appreciation for tradition.

Let’s steep into this rising trend and explore how Matcha Eight fits into the story.

A Shift Towards Mindful Living

As more Malaysians become health-conscious and intentional about what they consume, Japanese tea has naturally stepped into the spotlight. Matcha is known for being rich in antioxidants, helping with focus and offering a clean, gentle energy boost. Sencha is refreshing and often enjoyed for its detox-like qualities, while hojicha with its warm, roasted aroma is a favourite for calming the mind, especially in the evening.

But beyond the health benefits, there’s a deeper reason people are drawn to these teas. It’s how they make us feel. A cup of matcha or hojicha can ground us, slow us down, and create space for mindfulness in our fast-paced lives.

From Aesthetic to Authentic

Let’s be honest, Japanese tea is beautiful. The bright green hue of matcha, the earthy tones of hojicha, the delicate tea setups — they’re all incredibly aesthetic. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have played a role in popularising Japanese tea, especially among Gen Z and millennials.

But this isn’t just a passing trend. Malaysians aren’t just taking photos; they’re genuinely embracing the experience. Japanese tea culture encourages quiet moments, deep appreciation, and a sense of calm. That authenticity is what people are really falling in love with.

A Taste of Kyoto, Made for Malaysia

At Matcha Eight, we’re more than just a dessert brand. We’re storytellers of a centuries-old tea culture. Our matcha, sencha, and hojicha are sourced directly from Kyoto, Japan, made by skilled tea masters who have perfected their craft over generations.

Every scoop of our ice cream carries the essence of this heritage. It’s handcrafted with care, using single-origin tea that highlights the purity and richness of Japanese ingredients. When you enjoy our desserts, you’re not just tasting tea. You’re connecting with a tradition that has been passed down for hundreds of years.

Why Malaysians Love It

We hear it all the time from our customers. Some tell us they started drinking matcha to cut back on coffee, but now it’s become their morning ritual. Others say their kids love our hojicha ice cream and ask for it every weekend. And many share that visiting Matcha Eight reminds them of a trip to Japan, bringing back special memories in just one scoop.

It’s this emotional connection that makes Japanese tea culture feel so personal. It’s not just about health or trendiness — it’s about comfort, nostalgia, and joy.

Join the Tea Movement

Whether you're sipping matcha at home, enjoying hojicha ice cream after dinner, or discovering sencha for the first time, you're part of a growing community in Malaysia that values quality, culture, and calm.

At Matcha Eight, we’re honoured to be part of your tea journey. We believe something as simple as a cup of tea or a scoop of ice cream can bring a sense of peace and presence into your day. And we’re just getting started.

Visit our store or explore our menu to experience the magic of Japanese tea culture — made for Malaysians, from Kyoto with love.

This article is contributed by Nursyaza Nadia Azman