Our Story
🌿 What Is a Tanuki?
In Japanese folklore, the Tanuki (Japanese raccoon dog) is a joyful shape-shifter who are mischievous, playful, and believed to bring good fortune.
Growing up in Japan, I always loved the Tanuki. It represents something deeply Japanese: tradition with a wink. Reverence without rigidity. Joy woven into everyday life.
That spirit is at the heart of Tanuki Matcha; rooted in centuries of Japanese tea culture, but adaptable to modern life.
Because matcha doesn’t belong on a pedestal. It belongs in your daily ritual.
🍵 Founder
Hi, I’m Kanako, a Japanese Tea Ceremony practitioner born and raised in Tokyo.
I spent over a decade studying the art of tea ceremony, where I learned that matcha is more than a drink. It is hospitality, discipline, seasonality, and intention, all in one bowl.
Over the years, I’ve tasted hundreds (honestly, probably thousands at this point) of matcha and hōjicha varieties. I’ve visited tea shops across Japan, consulted with tea professionals, and sourced directly from Kagoshima and Shizuoka, two of Japan’s most respected tea-growing regions.
Tanuki Matcha is not just matcha I enjoy.
It’s matcha I carefully curate and confidently stand behind.
🌱 Our Teas
We source our teas directly from Kagoshima and Shizuoka, Japan. Both regions are celebrated for its ideal climate, rich soil, and centuries of tea craftsmanship.
Our collection is intentionally focused and thoughtfully selected:
- Everyday Ceremonial Matcha: vibrant, smooth, and balanced for daily whisking
- Latte Grade Matcha: bold enough to shine through milk while maintaining natural sweetness
- Premium Hōjicha: roasted green tea with a comforting, nutty aroma and low caffeine
Each tea is chosen for balance: umami without bitterness, sweetness without additives, quality without intimidation.
No gimmicks.
No trend-chasing.
Just authentic Japanese tea, thoughtfully sourced.
📚 Education Over Elitism
Tea ceremony taught me precision, but it also taught me humility.
Matcha is not about exclusivity. It’s about connection.
At Tanuki Matcha, we believe in education over elitism. Whether you whisk traditionally, shake it in a jar, or blend it into a latte, you’re doing it right.
Through our educational content, we share what I’ve learned over years of practice; from preparation tips to cultural context, so you can feel confident and curious, never intimidated.
Because tradition should be preserved, not gatekept.
💚 Why Tanuki Matcha?
I created Tanuki Matcha to bridge worlds.
To bring the quiet beauty of Japanese tea ceremony into busy kitchens in Los Angeles, Austin, New York, wherever you are.
To honor my Japanese roots while making matcha feel accessible, modern, and joyful.
Tanuki Matcha: Japanese Roots, Joyful Sips.
✉️ A Personal Note
When you email or DM Tanuki Matcha, you’re messaging me.
Whether you’re new to matcha or have been whisking for years, I’m here. Your Matcha Mentor at your service.
Thank you for supporting a proudly Japanese and woman-owned small business. It means more than I can say to share something so deeply connected to my culture with you.
With joy (and just a little mischief),
Kanako かな子 💚
P.S 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.
