Nishio, Aichi Matcha

Nishio is a coastal city in Aichi Prefecture, traditionally one of the four major matcha regions in Japan.

Nishio sits on the Yahagi River delta, where mineral-rich soil and steady winter sunshine produce a long shading window. The region has been farming tencha since the 13th century and now supplies a large share of the matcha used in Japanese confectionery and cooking, though premium ceremonial Nishio matcha is also produced.

Nishio matcha tends to be milder than Uji, with a lighter color and a softer, sweeter character. The matcha most often used in food applications, because it holds its color well under heat.