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Tokyo Weekender
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Tokyo Weekender
How To Experience a Japanese Tea Ceremony in Tokyo
In our fast-paced modern world, the ancient art of the Japanese tea ceremony offers something increasingly rare: a moment of pure mindfulness. Far more than simply drinking tea, this centuries-old practice invites participants into a sacred space where every gesture carries meaning and time itself seems to slow down. For travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience in Tokyo, participating in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony provides an unparalleled window into the heart of Japanese philosophy. List of Contents: The Soul of Japanese Tea Ceremony: Understanding Chado What To Expect During Your Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience Tea Ceremony Etiquette: How To Be a Respectful Guest Where To Experience Japanese Tea Ceremonies in Tokyo Choosing the Perfect Tea Ceremony Experience Related Posts The Soul of Japanese Tea Ceremony: Understanding Chado The traditional Japanese tea ceremony, known as sado , chado or chanoyu, is rooted in four fundamental principles called wa-kei-sei-jaku — harmony, respect, purity and tranquility. Wa (harmony) emphasizes the connection between all participants and the elements present. Kei (respect) manifests in every interaction, from the host's careful preparation to guests' mindful reception. Sei (purity) is both physical and spiritual, evident in ritualistic cleansing. Jaku (tranquility) emerges naturally when these principles are embodied. Central to the tea ceremony is ' ichigo ichie, ' a saying recognizing that each gathering is unique and unrepeatable. This philosophy encourages full presence, appreciating subtle details like filtered sunlight or seasonal sweets. The ceremony's connection to seasonal change reflects Japan's profound appreciation for nature's cycles, with everything from hanging scrolls to tea implements reflecting the current season. While rooted in 400-year-old traditions influenced by Zen Buddhism and refined by masters like Sen no Rikyu, the practice remains relevant today. Modern practitioners often describe it as meditation in motion, offering respite from digital overwhelm and urban stress. What To Expect During Your Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience Traditional tearooms, called chashitsu , are designed to foster tranquility through refined simplicity. As well as the tatami flooring, there are paper screens that filter natural light and a tokonoma alcove, which displays seasonal art. The intimate proportions encourage quiet contemplation, while the separate nijiriguchi entrance requires crawling through, symbolically leaving the outside world behind. The ceremony unfolds in choreographed stages. The host begins by purifying implements with a silk fukusa cloth. This is not for cleanliness, but as a gesture of respect. Traditional wagashi sweets are served first, designed to complement matcha's slight bitterness. The host then whisks powdered green tea with hot water using a bamboo chasen whisk, presenting the frothy, vibrant tea in handcrafted ceramic bowls chosen specifically for the occasion. Every gesture embodies grace and respect, refined over centuries. Movements are deliberately slow and mindful. When carrying the kensui water container, the host turns their back to guests — acknowledging the water is no longer pristine after use. Tea bowls are oriented, so their most beautiful aspect faces the guest. Tea Ceremony Etiquette: How To Be a Respectful Guest Remove shoes and strong fragrances before entering. Take time to appreciate the tokonoma display, showing respect for the host's preparation. Move quietly and deliberately, traditionally sitting in seiza (formal kneeling), though many modern venues accommodate guests who find this difficult. Accept sweets with both hands and a small bow. The tea bowl is presented with its decorated front facing you. Before drinking, rotate the bowl twice clockwise to avoid placing your lips on the decorated surface. Drink in several small sips, then rotate counterclockwise before returning it. Common Mistakes To Avoid Never rush — the ceremony's power lies in its deliberate pace. Don't touch implements unless invited, and gesture with an open hand rather than pointing. Photography policies vary, but many traditional settings discourage pictures during the ceremony. Where To Experience Japanese Tea Ceremonies in Tokyo Traditional Tea Houses in Historic Districts Kosoan (Meguro) : Kosoan is a delightful setting in the residential Jiyugaoka district, renowned for its traditional wooden architecture, tranquil Zen garden and timeless ambiance. Housed in a former family home, it offers a peaceful retreat that transports visitors to a Japan of yesteryear. Jidaiya (Asakusa): Jidaiya , situated in the heart of Asakusa — one of Tokyo's most historic districts — offers wheelchair-friendly tea ceremonies in English and extra options for kimono experiences. Houan (Kagurazaka): Nestled in the cobblestone streets of quaint Kagurazaka, Houan offers authentic tea ceremonies in a tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Garden Settings: Tea Ceremonies in Tokyo's Parks Shinjuku Gyoen: Rakuu Tei Teahouse : Features a convenient ticket machine for quick matcha and wagashi service. Step inside the established teahouse, remove your shoes and enjoy your tea ceremony experience on traditional tatami flooring. Hamarikyu Gardens: Nakajima-no-ochaya : This historic teahouse was once a retreat for Japan's elite in the 18th and 19th centuries, where military leaders would relax while enjoying sweeping views of the park's pond and flora. The venue continues this tradition of tranquil tea service, and visitors can catch the yearly tea ceremony with English instructions held every October. Happo-en: Muan Teahouse : For a luxurious tea ceremony experience in Tokyo, this upscale venue offers both formal ceremonies (with up to a two-month waiting list) and drop-in informal experiences beneath a canopy of lush greenery. Please note that Muan Teahouse is closed until the end of September 2025 for renovations. Cultural Centers and Tourist-Friendly Venues Cultural centers throughout Tokyo offer beginner-friendly experiences with English instruction, focusing on education and cultural exchange. Many central Tokyo hotels now provide matcha ceremony experiences as part of their cultural programming, offering convenient access with explanations tailored for international guests. Choosing the Perfect Tea Ceremony Experience Formal vs. Casual Ceremonies Formal ceremonies (' chaji ') can last several hours and include a full meal, providing comprehensive cultural understanding. Casual ceremonies (' chakai' ) focus on tea service and typically last between 60 and 90 minutes, ideal for travelers with limited time wanting an authentic Tokyo experience. What To Wear and How To Prepare Dress modestly and comfortably in dark, subdued colors. Avoid strong fragrances and elaborate jewelry. Some venues provide cushions, while others maintain traditional seiza seating throughout. The Japanese tea ceremony offers modern travelers a rare opportunity to experience profound cultural meditation. In Tokyo's bustling environment, these moments of traditional tranquility provide not just cultural education, but genuine respite for the soul, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for mindfulness and the art of being truly present. Related Posts Zen and the Art of the Japanese Tea Ceremony The Best Matcha Powders: A Beginner's Guide to Green Tea Brands A Day in the Life of a Japanese Tea Ceremony Host
Yahoo
03-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Japan House begins construction on Ogura-Sato Annex
CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The work has officially begun to expand the University of Illinois' Japan House. After an eight-year journey, the construction of the Ogura-Sato Annex is finally beginning. According to the Japan House, U of I Facilities and Services crews have already started preliminary site work and excavation. Actor Nick Offerman returns to U of I for book signing The future site, which is located west of the Japan House, will undergo 'immense changes.' Officials said that half of the tea garden area had to be excavated to make room for the Annex. But, the 'heart of the tea garden,' which covers the entrance to the tsukubai and the steppingstones outside the sliding door, will remain intact. Lois Sjoken, Japan House gardener, also worked to preserve as many plants as possible. And, Sjoken teamed up with subcontractors to remove each rock and place them in a safe area for future use. Officials said the new garden will have a path that connects to a secondary tea garden, and will be 'fully accessible' to everyone. The idea for the Ogura-Sato Annex began in 2017 as Japan House's operations grew and began to outgrow its current space. Over the years, donors like Professor Emeritus Shozo Sato, Alice (Ogura) Sato, Dr. George Ogura and Nick Offerman helped get the project started. You can see a timeline for the Ogura-Sato Annex project here. Champaign Co. Chamber of Commerce welcomes new UI business Jennifer Gunji-Ballsrud is the director of the Japan House. In a statement, Gunji-Ballsrud said that she is grateful for the entire community's patience as they wait for the facility to expand, and begin to offer even more opportunities. And, Gunji-Ballsrud recognized Jim Bier, who established the Japanese tea garden and dry rock garden, as well as the gardeners and volunteers who dedicate their time to the gardens. The Japan House has been a space where visitors can develop cultural understanding, and experience tranquility for over 60 years. Gunji-Ballsrud said the space will continue to offer new perspectives to the community in the years to come. U of I's Wildlife Medical Clinic collabs with Triptych Brewing on designs Rooted in traditional Japanese aesthetics and arts—particularly Chado, the Way of Tea—Japan House continues to offer students and the broader community a unique opportunity to cultivate a deeper appreciation of diverse cultures. None of this would be possible without our gardens and the love and care that Jim Bier has devoted to them over the past 25 years. Jennifer Gunji-Ballsrud and the Japan House Team Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
