Aoarashi (also spelled Aorashi) vs Ummon-no-Mukashi
Last verified Sep 13, 2026
Quick Answer
Ippodo describes Ummon-no-Mukashi as full-bodied with prominent umami, for koicha or usucha. Marukyu describes Aoarashi as refreshing and recommends it for thin tea (usucha), and for mixing with milk or cream. They are different kinds of tea at different prices, so check the pack and seller on each blend page.
Who Each Option Is For
by Marukyu Koyamaen · Uji
Marukyu Koyamaen lists Aoarashi (青嵐) among its principal matcha and describes it as having a refreshing flavor, recommended for making thin tea (usucha) and also for mixing with milk or cream. Marukyu's product page (archived copy, May 2025) lists a 40g can, 100g can, 100g bag and 200g can, and names no cultivar or harvest.
by Ippodo · Uji
A top-tier matcha that rivals the best from any producer. The depth of umami and full body make it outstanding for koicha.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Aoarashi Marukyu Koyamaen | Ummon-no-Mukashi Ippodo | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Marukyu Koyamaen | Ippodo |
| Origin | Uji | Uji |
| Grade | Ceremonial | Ceremonial |
| Price/gram | — | ¥200/g |
| Package | — | 20g |
| Cultivar(s) | — | Samidori, Gokou |
| Use cases | Usucha, Koicha | Usucha, Koicha |
| Umami | — | 9 |
| Bitterness | — | 2 |
| Sweetness | — | 8 |
| Body | — | 9 |
| Color | — | 9 |
Flavor Profile Comparison
Ummon-no-Mukashi
Price Comparison
| Blend | Price | Package | Per gram |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aoarashi | — | — | — |
| Ummon-no-Mukashi | ¥4,000 | 20g | ¥200/g |
Best-For Breakdown
| Use case | Aoarashi | Ummon-no-Mukashi |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | — | 8/10★ best |
| Daily usucha | — | 9/10★ best |
| Koicha | — | 9/10★ best |
| Latte / milk | — | 2/10★ best |
Scores are 1–10. For latte/milk, lower bitterness is preferred. For all others, higher is better.
Key Differences
- Ippodo's page for Ummon-no-Mukashi lists koicha and usucha; Marukyu's archived page for Aoarashi recommends thin tea (usucha) and mixing with milk or cream.
- Neither maker's product page that we could read names a cultivar.
- Compare per-gram prices for the same pack and seller; they differ widely.
Final Verdict
Choose by use: Marukyu recommends Aoarashi for thin tea, Ippodo lists Ummon-no-Mukashi for koicha or usucha.