Did you know matcha originated in China? Here's where you can try it in Metro Manila

In the modern world, matcha has long been associated with Japan, with Uji in Kyoto among the most famous tea-producing regions in the Land of the Rising Sun.

But long before matcha became synonymous with Japan, its story began during the Tang Dynasty (618 to 907 CE) in China, where tea leaves were steamed, pressed into bricks, ground into a fine powder, and whisked with hot water.

Compared to green tea, matcha is more nutrient-dense, as the entire leaf is consumed rather than discarded after steeping.

"Matcha is a powdered form of green tea wherein the entire leaf is consumed, making it more nutrient-dense than traditional brewed tea," nutritionist Bianca Babar told GMA News Online.

"It is rich in L-theanine, catechins and has moderate amounts of caffeine," she added.

If you’re a matcha enthusiast, or just beginning to appreciate the popular green drink, ChaYi has unveiled its newest Chinese matcha collection, featuring matcha sourced directly from Tongren in Guizhou Province, known as the “Matcha Capital of China.”

The collection keeps things simple, offering three drinks, with an option for free extra matcha for those who want a stronger kick.

The Jasmine Matcha Cloud (P220) is a creamy jasmine-infused tea latte topped with a thick layer of matcha foam.

The Matcha Oat Latte (P180) is a smooth and creamy blend of vibrant matcha and oat milk, perfect for those who prefer a more straightforward drink.

The Wuyi Matcha (P190) combines a rich Da Hong Pao tea latte base with high-grade matcha, delivering a deep, roasted tea character.

ChaYi is located at Lucky Chinatown Mall, SMDC Fame Mall, Ayala Malls Fairview Terraces, and Venice Grand Canal Mall.

Meanwhile, here are other spots in Metro Manila where you can get your matcha fix.

—CDC, GMA News