A refreshing cup of winter water: what the tea ceremony can teach us
The coldest period of the year, "Kan no Uchi" (January 5th to February 3rd), is a special season in which you can feel the pure blessings of nature. The "Kan no Mizu" water drawn during this time has been revered in the tea ceremony for its crystal clear beauty and strength.
The charm of cold water
"Kan no mizu" (water of winter) refers to well water or spring water that gushes forth during the cold winter months. Water that has been slowly filtered by nature in the cold winter weather is said to be free of impurities and has a very smooth texture. Using this water brings out the umami of matcha and adds depth to its flavor.
Since ancient times, tea masters have regarded cold water as "water of longevity" and "medicinal water," and have treasured the custom of carefully drawing and storing it for use in tea ceremonies. This act is imbued with gratitude and respect for the blessings of nature.
The role of water in the tea ceremony
Water is at the heart of the tea ceremony. The quality and temperature of the water in the kettle greatly influence the taste of the tea. The coldness of cold water in particular accentuates the mellowness of the water when boiled, further bringing out the aroma and flavor of the matcha. The purity of this water also creates a refreshing atmosphere for the entire tea ceremony.
The purity of water and the atmosphere of winter can be expressed by choosing words such as "cold water, clear and pure" for the hanging scroll. This phrase means "water that is extremely clear in the cold," and is imbued with the spirit of praising the beauty of nature in the harsh season.
The spirit of cold water in everyday life
What the cold water teaches us is the importance of being grateful for the blessings of nature and incorporating pure feelings into our daily lives.
• Drinking hot water in the crisp winter air
On a cold winter morning, enjoying a cup of carefully brewed hot water or tea will soothe your mind and body.
• Be particular about the water you choose
Try making tea using spring water or soft water instead of regular tap water. You'll notice a dramatic difference in the taste.
• Adjust the water temperature
For matcha made with cold water, a slightly lower water temperature of 70-75°C is best. This brings out the delicate aroma and flavor.
• Enjoy a casual tea ceremony experience
Why not try Zenlab's matcha starter set and enjoy a special matcha experience that incorporates cold water?
