When people talk about premium Japanese tea, “Uji matcha” almost always comes to mind. But here’s something most don’t know: while Uji is a celebrated name, much of that matcha actually comes from a humble, quiet town nestled in Kyoto’s southern hills: Wazuka.

At Matcha Eight, Wazuka is where our journey begins, not just geographically, but spiritually. It’s the home of our tea farmers, the origin of our flavours, and the reason our ice cream tastes as vibrant and authentic as it does.

The Difference Between Uji and Wazuka Matcha

Let’s get one thing clear: Uji isn’t a brand of matcha; it’s a region and a prestigious one at that. Uji matcha is regarded as the gold standard, a symbol of quality and tradition. But within that region lies Wazuka, a town that quietly powers the reputation of Uji matcha, field by field.

Wazuka’s tea-growing history dates back over 800 years, producing some of the finest matcha, sencha and hojicha in Japan. Its unique microclimate, mineral-rich soil and misty hillsides create ideal conditions for cultivating rich, flavourful tea leaves. In fact, nearly half of Wazuka’s land is dedicated to tea cultivation.

So why doesn’t Wazuka get all the attention? Simply put, Uji became the historical and cultural hub for tea commerce and branding, but behind that reputation are generations of Wazuka farmers doing the hard, patient work of growing and hand-picking every tender leaf.

Why Wazuka Matters to Us

When Matcha Eight was founded in 2021, our vision was simple: to bring authentic, natural Japanese tea ice cream to Malaysia. But we wanted to go deeper, to connect directly with the source.

We partner directly with farmers in Wazuka, bypassing the middlemen. For the first time, these farmers knew exactly who was enjoying their tea. And for them, that recognition was everything.

Some of these tea plantations have been family-run for decades, passed down from one generation to the next. Our single-origin tea powder is harvested with care, preserving the true character of each harvest. Each scoop of ice cream you enjoy is a tribute to their dedication, their land, and their legacy.

More Than Just Ice Cream

At Matcha Eight, we work closely with Michelin-starred Master Chef Takuji Takahashi, who develops our recipes using only the finest tea powder from Wazuka. With no additives or preservatives, our ice cream offers not just an exceptional taste but also a soothing sense of calm.

We Malaysians love ice cream. But finding premium, authentic Japanese tea ice cream? That’s a rare joy. That’s why we strive to bring a little happiness, a little tradition, and a whole lot of flavour to your everyday life.

So the next time you enjoy a scoop from us, slow down and appreciate nature’s gift of Wazuka. 

This article is contributed by Nursyaza Nadia Azman