Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience日本の茶道体験
"A Moment to Embrace Tradition"
Welcome to the Tea Ceremony Experience Course!
Beginners are welcome! Experience the tea ceremony in Ninenzaka, Kyoto.
Prepare and enjoy matcha in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Let’s find tranquility together.
Our experienced instructors provide detailed guidance.
Tea Ceremony Class Using a Stand for Sitting
Tea ceremony at a chair
This class uses a stand for a seated tea ceremony, perfect for beginners or those who find sitting on the floor challenging.
Experience Kyoto’s charm
Enjoy the essence of the tea ceremony in a relaxed environment.
International Appeal
A special moment woven through the scenic streets of Ninenzaka and the serene atmosphere of the tea ceremony.
1. Introduction and History
We will introduce the history and cultural background of the tea ceremony.
Learn how this traditional Japanese art has developed and been passed down to the present day, along with its deep connections to Japanese culture.
2. Understanding and Using Tea Utensils
Learn about the tea bowl, tea whisk, and tea scoop, including their uses and meanings.
We will explain how each utensil is used in the tea ceremony and their roles, as well as maintenance methods for everyday use.
3. Proper Etiquette for Serving and Receiving Tea
Learn the proper handling of the tea bowl and etiquette for receiving tea.
Deepen your understanding of the importance of manners and mindset through the actions involved in the tea ceremony.
4. Demonstration of the Tea Ceremony
Experience a live demonstration by the tea instructor, showcasing the flowing movements and seasonal hospitality.
5. Tea Ceremony Experience: Prepare Your Own Matcha
Participants will have the opportunity to prepare their own matcha, savoring the essence of the tea ceremony.
Enjoy the depth and calming experience of this traditional Japanese practice.
6. Q&A and Reflection
We will have a time for questions from participants, allowing for reflection and a deeper understanding of the tea ceremony.
7. Understanding Japanese Culture
We value a friendly atmosphere that allows participants to relax and enjoy.
Designed for beginners, we avoid difficult terminology and movements, ensuring easy-to-understand explanations.
Commonalities between the Tea Ceremony and Zen茶道と禅の共通点
The State of No Mind
The tea ceremony and Zen share a profound relationship. The spirit of Zen significantly influences the techniques and expressions of the tea ceremony.
- The State of No Mind
- In Zen practice, achieving a state of "no mind" is essential. This means emptying the mind and removing distractions.
In the tea ceremony, this state of no mind is also required when holding the brush to write, allowing for the creation of natural and powerful strokes. - Self-Exploration
- Zen is a practice of exploring one’s essence.
Similarly, the tea ceremony serves as a form of self-expression, allowing individuals to reflect on themselves through their art. - Simplicity and Nature
- Zen aesthetics value simplicity and the natural world.
In the tea ceremony, works that are simple yet carry deep meanings are highly appreciated. - Zen Brush Path
- The Zen Brush Path merges the tea ceremony with Zen practice.
By using the brush in this practice, one can achieve the state of no mind and engage in self-exploration.
This practice aims not only at mastering the techniques of the tea ceremony but also at fostering spiritual growth. - Historical Background
- The relationship between Zen and the tea ceremony is ancient, particularly with the ink traces (bokusetsu) written by eminent Zen monks being revered as expressions of Zen spirit.
These ink traces have been used as scrolls in tea ceremonies and are valued as part of spiritual training. The connection between tea ceremony and Zen holds deep significance, not just as a technique but also as a form of spiritual cultivation. Learning the spirit of Zen through the tea ceremony can lead to deeper self-understanding and spiritual growth.
