The Way of Tea offers a moment of peace and tranquility in our otherwise chaotic lives.
The Japanese Tea Ceremony (known as Chadō, or The Way of Tea) is a traditional practice that involves the meticulous preparation and serving of matcha (powdered green tea). It’s an immersive and meditative experience that typically takes place in a traditional tea room with tatami floor.
Each aspect of the ceremony follows a strict protocol that’s performed with great care, etiquette and attention to detail. The purpose of the tea ceremony is to cultivate the bond between the host and the guest, as well as finding calm in our hectic lives.
More than the taste, it is the moment that is to be savoured as it occurs only once in a lifetime.
Origins of the tea ceremony
Tea was first introduced to Japan in the 9th Century by the buddhist monk Eichū, who brought it back on his return from China. It was initially drunk as a medicinal beverage mainly amongst priests and the noble class, but never gained widespread popularity.
That was, until the Muromachi Period (1333-1573), when tea drinking parties became more frequent in affluent circles around Kyoto. Hosts would show off their elegant tea bowls and display their knowledge about tea.
During that time of cultural progress for Japan, a more spiritual practice would evolve that followed principles of Zen Buddhism. Tea became a ritual by introducing the “ichi-go-ichi-e” philosophy (cherish every moment) and promoting the wabi-sabi aspect (beauty in imperfection and simplicity).
Sen no Rikyū (1522 – 1591), a Japanese tea master, is considered the father of the modern way of tea. He perfected all aspects of the tea ceremony, including the utensils, procedure, teahouse architecture and garden landscaping, elevating it to the level of an art. He emphasised key aspects of the ceremony, including rustic simplicity, directness of approach and honesty of self.
When you hear the splash of the water drops that fall into the stone bowl, you will feel that all the dust of your mind is washed away.
Sen no Rikyū
Most of today’s schools of tea ceremony were born out of his teachings.
The tea ceremony tools
The tools used to prepare tea are called chadōgu. They are exquisitely crafted from bamboo and handled with great care throughout. That includes meticulous cleaning before and after each use and before storing.
The tools used in a tea ceremony are:
- Tea bowl (chawan)
- Tea caddy (natsume)
- Tea scoop (chashaku)
- Tea whisk (chasen)
- A cloth (chakin)
- Kettle
- Brazier
- Sweets container
Each piece of equipment was carefully selected and has its place within the ceremony.
The tea ceremony procedure
There are different styles of tea ceremony, including formal, informal, individual, and group ceremonies. An informal tea ceremony lasts from 30 minutes to 1 hour, whereas a formal tea ceremony can last up to 4 hours.
The following tips will help you to come prepared and make the most of the experience:
- Dress code. Modest, clean and comfortable clothes are advised. Remove any jewellery that may damage the equipment and avoid strong fragrances.
- Etiquette. Make sure to turn up on time and show basic manners. You will remove your shoes when entering the building and bow to the host. Mobile phones should be turned off.
- Sitting. Traditionally guests sit in the Seiza position (lower legs tucked under) on the Tatami floor, and bow once more before the tea is prepared.
- Presence. Bring your full self to the tea ceremony and keenly observe each step of the ritual. Observe the decorations that were selected for the occasion. Notice the feelings and sensations of this moment.
- Quiet. You must remain quiet while the host purifies the tools.
- Japanese sweet. A Japanese sweet is served and should be eaten before the tea is drunk.
- Enjoying the tea. The tea bowl is placed on the tatami mat in front of you, with its front facing you. Pick it up with your right hand and rest it on your left palm. Using your right hand, turn the bowl about 90 degrees clockwise so its front is no longer facing you. Drink the tea slowly and place it back onto the Tatami mat. Bow once more and express your gratitude to the host.
- Conversation. It is polite to compliment the bowls and seasonal flowers at the end of the tea ceremony. When the host initiates conversation, stick to matters of the tea ceremony and seasonal changes.
How to experience a Japanese tea ceremony
There are many places in Japan where you can experience the way of tea. Classes, workshops and festivals are held throughout the year offering the opportunity to learn from master instructors, usually within the tranquil setting of a tea house, garden or hotel.
Kyoto and Uji are popular destinations where you can enjoy an authentic tea ceremony experience.
Kyoto Maikoya offers a traditional tea ceremony in the historic Gion district of Kyoto, as well as Kimono and Japanese sweets making. The Tea Crane offers a formal thick tea ceremony, incense tea ceremony and a day with a tea master.
If you’re outside of Japan and unlikely to go anytime soon, there are some options closer to home. You can visit the San Francisco Zen Center, Settsugekka in New York, or Keiko Uchida in London.
Further reading
A number of books have been written on the art of the Japanese Tea Ceremony, some translated from earlier texts. These offer a deeper account of the meanings and implications of the ritual, as well as the meditative and mindfulness aspects.
Here are a few of my favourites:
Chado the Way of Tea: A Japanese Tea Master’s Almanac, by Sasaki Sanmi
The Japanese Way of Tea: From It’s Origins in China to Sen Rikyu, by Soshita Sen
The One Taste of Truth: Zen and the Art of Drinking Tea, by William Scott Wilson
Final thoughts
If you’re interested in traditional practices and Japanese culture in general, the Way of Tea is a delightful experience that you’re sure to enjoy. It’s calm, peaceful and enriching. Bring your whole self to it and your troubles will be left behind.
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Featured Image: @oriento