◆ Try traditional Japanese confectionery that have been specifically paired with matcha tea

◆ Go through the processes of Japanese tea ceremony with a professional tea master

◆ Learn in depth about the spirit of Zen expressed in Japanese art and architecture

◆ Make tea through the traditional tea ceremony processes yourself

 

The tea ceremony experience is more than just a ceremony.

Like many Japanese cultural aspects, it is connected to Zen Buddhism, and in Zen, as in tea ceremony, most concepts begin with the learning of gestures, forms, and movements. However, it is not only form that is important in Zen but also spirit. Through the movements of tea ceremony, we learn how to cultivate the mind and reach inner peace. These practices are not mere ritual, but a way of considering why each process is important, connecting us deeper to our practical lives.

As part of this program, you will go through the processes of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony with a national qualified tea master, who will prepare for you a traditional Japanese confection and matcha green tea. Following the ceremony, the master will explain to you the fundamentals of Zen practice, as well as the importance and role of tea utensils and the art of the Japanese tea room. With this knowledge, we hope to share with you the undamental tenets of the Japanese spirit.

*All our tea ceremony experiences are conducted by nationally certified tour guides who have practiced tea ceremony for more than five years.

The History of Japanese Tea Ceremony

The modern form of Japanese tea ceremony was established in the 16th century by Sen no Rikyu. Sen no Rikyu was a Zen Buddhist monk who trained at Daitokuji Temple, a significant Zen establishment with a long history connected to tea ceremony. At that time, Japan was in the midst of a period of warfare during which hundreds of warrior clans spent their days fighting each other. In such a time of war and violence, Rikyu felt a need for a place where warlords could communicate without weapons. That venue was the tearoom, a space of harmony, respect, and tranquility that pursued the beauty of simple architecture. To welcome guests, the proprietors of Sen no Rikyu’s style of tea ceremony decorated these tea rooms with hanging scrolls expressing the spirit of Zen and displayed ikebana flower arrangements to please the guests. In this well-prepared space, a tea host served matcha (powdered green tea) to help guests discover peace of mind. It is upon these principles that we practice tea ceremony today.


Why practice tea ceremony?

The moment shared between guests in the tearoom is called “Ichigo Ichie” meaning “a once-in-a-lifetime encounter”. This philosophy is a central part of Japanese tea ceremony, reminding us that each moment is significant in life, despite the conflicts and troubles of the world. Under such circumstances, we practice tea ceremony to experience the spirit of Zen, which we believe helps us to reevaluate our own desires and perspectives on life.

If you cancel your reservation, the following cancellation rates and remittance charges will be charged.
(1) 3-14 days prior to the program date: 20% of the program fee
(2) 2 days before the program date: 50% of the program fee
(3) 1 day before the program date: 100% of the program fee