OBJECTIVE

To create an English-version of an existing flyer used by the client, to convey the characteristics, history, and processes of this regional specialty, Sayama matcha. The client is not fluent in English, so they requested that I create the messaging in addition to design.

CLIENT

A Sayama tea farmer who is the current representative of a tea-crafting company, where they sell their local specialties to local and foreign customers.

ABOUT SAYAMA MATCHA

REGION & PRODUCTION ENVIRONMENT

Grown in Sayama, located in Saitama Prefecture, one of Japan's three major tea regions alongside Uji and Shizuoka
Closest major matcha-producing region to Tokyo
Cultivated in the Sayama Hills with long, cold winters
Cold climate slows leaf growth → higher concentration of flavour
Tea plants are bred for thicker, more resilient leaves

PRODUCTION METHODS & RARITY

Uses traditional 手もみ製法 (Te-momi-seihō) → hand-rolling technique over 800 years old
Each production step takes ~3x longer than standard methods
Finished with Sayama-Hiire roasting → enhances aroma and depth
Harvested only twice per year → limited supply
Represents ~2% of total matcha production
Strict regional standards (100% Sayama-grown leaves) increase exclusivity
Not mass-produced → maintains artisanal quality

TASTE, QUALITY & POSITIONING

Bold, full-bodied flavour with deep umami and subtle sweetness
Known for a vivid, striking green colour
Distinct roasted aroma and smooth yet intense finish
Considered among “Japan's finest tasting” matcha varieties
Less globally known compared to Uji and Shizuoka teas
Positioned as a premium, niche product for dedicated matcha enthusiasts
Reflects the region's tradition, craftsmanship, and farmer dedication

REVISIONS

Worked together with client to condense messaging, giving a broad overview of the matcha's taste, characteristics, and what makes it special
Font family and size of paragraph text changed to a sans-serif font for readability
Removed inverted-colour text that crossed from dark to light sections
Kanji font changed to a mincho font that better matches the English serif font.