Our Story

What is a Tanuki?

In Japanese folklore, the Tanuki (Japanese Raccoon Dog) is a beloved creature known for bringing prosperity and good fortune. These playful animals are famous for their mischievous nature and magical ability to shape-shift using leaves! Growing up in Japan, the Tanuki was always one of my favorite animals, representing the perfect balance of tradition and whimsy. Just like the Tanuki uses leaves for transformation, we believe that every cup of matcha has the power to transform your daily routine into a moment of joy and connection.

My Story

Hi! My name is Kanako, I'm a Japanese Tea Ceremony Practitioner born and raised in Tokyo, Japan. Growing up in a matcha-loving family, I spent 13 years learning the art of the Japanese tea ceremony, which deepened my love and appreciation for this timeless tradition. These experiences shaped my perspective on the importance of quality and authenticity, inspiring me to create Tanuki Matcha as a way to share this cherished tradition with others.

(Baby me proudly presenting a matcha cake I helped bake!) 

Today, I reside and work in Los Angeles, but Japan remains close to my heart. My entire family still lives there, and I visit several times a year to stay connected to my roots and the culture that inspires me.

Why Tanuki Matcha?

I started Tanuki Matcha because of a deep desire to share the joy I felt every time I sipped a cup of matcha made with care and tradition. I still remember a moment during tea ceremony class when the perfect balance of flavor and ritual filled me with a sense of peace. That memory has stayed with me, inspiring me to create a brand that brings the same experience to others. While I, of course, love matcha, also recognized the need for authentic, organic, ceremonial-grade matcha from Japan to help enhance health and bring joy to people's lives.

Our Teas

At Tanuki Matcha, we keep things simple and pure. Currently, we offer only top-shelf, Grade A organic ceremonial matcha, known for its smooth, vibrant flavor and rich umami, along with my personal favorite, hōjicha, a lesser-known roasted green tea with a nutty, caramel-like aroma and a unique, comforting taste.

These teas are sourced directly from Japan, ensuring an authentic and exceptional experience in every sip. As a Japanese native with over 10 years of experience in Japanese tea ceremony, I have tried hundreds (perhaps thousands at this point in life?) of matcha and hōjicha. I've worked long and hard, visiting tea shops in Japan, consulting with tea masters, and finding matcha and hōjicha from Shizuoka.

Shizuoka, Japan, is a region renowned for its tea production. Its perfect climate and rich soil are ideal for cultivating high-quality matcha. Home to centuries-old tea traditions, Shizuoka is celebrated worldwide for its exceptional flavor profiles and commitment to authentic practices.

A Personal Note

Tanuki Matcha: Japanese Roots, Joyful Sips. Thank you so much (or should I say, "thank you so matcha" 😉) for being here and joining in the playful spirit of Tanuki Matcha. It's a joy to share fun, fortune, and the love of Japanese tea with you! It means the world to me to share something I love so deeply from my country with you.

If you have any questions, please check out our FAQ section. If you don't find the answer you're looking for, don't hesitate to email me. Your emails come directly to me, Kanako, and I'll personally respond to you.

Thank you again for your support and for letting me share a little bit of Japan with you!