Tanabata & Matcha: Celebrate Japan’s Star Festival with Seasonal Wagashi
Every year on July 7th, Japan celebrates Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival.
According to Japanese legend, Orihime and Hikoboshi, represented by the stars Vega and Altair, are lovers separated by the Milky Way and allowed to meet only once a year.
People celebrate by writing wishes on colorful paper strips called tanzaku and hanging them on bamboo branches.
Even today, Tanabata festivals can be found throughout Japan during the summer.
Like many Japanese traditions, Tanabata reflects a deep appreciation for the changing seasons, a value that is also at the heart of Japanese tea ceremony.
Limited Seasonal Wagashi for Tanabata
To celebrate the season, GreenTeaTokyo can arrange beautiful custom-made wagashi (Japanese sweets) inspired by Tanabata, featuring stars or the story of Orihime and Hikoboshi.
These seasonal sweets are served alongside freshly prepared matcha, creating an experience guests can only enjoy for a limited time each year.
If you would like to include this option, simply let us know in advance.
It’s a popular addition for:
Corporate summer events
Hotel hospitality
International guest experiences
Private celebrations
A Hands-On Matcha Experience
Our instructor first introduces the history of matcha and explains the traditional tea utensils.
Guests then whisk and prepare their own bowl of matcha, making the experience interactive rather than simply watching a demonstration.
Everyone enjoys their matcha together with the seasonal Tanabata wagashi.
Whether it’s a guest’s first cup of matcha or their hundredth, preparing it themselves creates a memorable connection to Japanese culture.
We Bring the Tea Ceremony Experience to You
GreenTeaTokyo provides on-site matcha experiences throughout Tokyo and Yokohama.
Our instructor brings all necessary tea utensils directly to your venue, making it easy to host an authentic Japanese cultural experience at hotels, offices, event spaces, or private accommodations.
English-language support is available, making our workshops ideal for international visitors and overseas guests.
This summer, celebrate Tanabata with matcha, seasonal wagashi, and one of Japan’s most beloved traditions.
Learn more about our on-site matcha experience
