Kristine's Tea Journey

Within the first day of my internship at d:matcha, I already knew that I was in for an unforgettable experience. More than just sightseeing, I wanted a true cultural immersion experience while doing something I felt connected to. I had no expectations coming into my internship, but from the very beginning, I felt curious, challenged, and celebrated by everyone on the team.

From weeding mountainous tea fields, packing countless boxes of confectionary goods, to serving tea enthusiasts from all over the world—I really feel that I’ve done it all. I learned so much about tea; the culture, the business, and most importantly, the people. Everyone on the d:matcha team are not only experts in their field, but also incredibly hospitable, kind, and so fun to work with! Their dedication to sharing and growing Japanese tea culture is so embedded and apparent in every part of the business, that it’s hard not to share their passions.

Beyond the art of tea, I’ve realized that there’s so much I want to learn and experience, that I’ve been inspired to pursue higher education when I return home! This experience was exactly what I needed to nudge me in the right direction. I know that I return to Canada with an enthusiasm and eagerness to share my experiences and knowledge with everyone I meet. It’s hard to believe that so much of my life can change in just one month. This place, D:matcha Kyoto, and everyone on the team are so special and I’m grateful to have played a small part in pushing their visions forward!