🕓 2023/12/28
＃文化
Table of Contents
The tea ceremony is an art that symbolizes Japanese traditional culture and spirituality. In this article, we introduce the basics, history, utensils, styles, and places where you can experience tea ceremony. This provides an opportunity to touch upon the beauty and tradition of Japan.
The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as "Chanoyu," "Sado," or simply "Ocha," is a traditional Japanese cultural activity that includes the ceremonial preparation and serving of matcha, or powdered green tea.
It is a spiritual and aesthetic experience that emphasizes the appreciation of beauty and the importance of the moment.。
Initially practiced among the upper class, the tea ceremony gradually spread to all levels of society.。
Introduced from China to Japan in the 9th century, the tea ceremony as we know it today began to take shape under the influence of Zen Buddhism in the 16th century..
TInfluential tea masters like Sen no Rikyu shaped the tea ceremony, emphasizing simplicity and the beauty of nature.
Initially practiced among the upper class, the tea ceremony gradually spread to all levels of society.
•Tea Bowl (Chawan)：
A vessel used for making and drinking tea. Varies in shape, size, color,and pattern, used differently depending on the season and occasion.
• Tea Whisk (Chasen：
Made of bamboo, used to whip matcha into a froth.
• Made of bamboo, used to whip matcha into a froth.：
A bamboo spoon for placing matcha into the tea bowl.
•Natsume：
A tea container for thin tea. Used to store matcha and used during the tea ceremony.
• Tea Caddy (Chaire):：
A tea container for thick tea. Smaller and more airtight than Natsume.。
• Tea Cloth (Chakin：
A cloth for wiping the tea bowl, playing an important role in maintaining cleanliness in tea ceremony.
• Water Jar (Mizusashi)：
A container for clean water, used to wash the tea bowl during the ceremony.
• Waste-water Container (Kensui):：
A vessel for disposing of used water and tea leaves, important for maintaining cleanliness.
These utensils symbolize the spirituality and aesthetics of the tea ceremony, reflecting the mindfulness and respect of the practitioner.
• Thick Tea (Koicha)：
A thicker preparation of matcha, using more powder and less hot water for a richer flavor.
• Thin Tea (Usucha)：
A lighter preparation of matcha, using less powder and more water for a smoother taste.。
• Ryurei Style：
A style of tea ceremony conducted sitting at tables and chairs, more casual than formal tea gatherings.。
• Outdoor Tea Ceremony：
A tea ceremony held outdoors or in gardens, enjoying tea amidst nature.
• Styles by School：
Various schools like Urasenke, Omotesenke, and Mushakojisenke each have their unique methodologies and philosophies.
These types and styles of tea ceremony demonstrate the diversity and depth of traditional Japanese culture.
We introduce some recommended places in Tokyo to enjoy the tea ceremony experience. These facilities are particularly popular with foreign tourists, offering authentic experiences.
1. Shizu-Kokoro in Asakusa:
Offers 90-minute tea ceremony experiences in English, with unique themes each month. Prices start from 4,620 yen per person. Details can be found on the official website.
2. MAIKOYA Kyoto - Kimono Tea Ceremony Experience
experience almost all aspects of Japanese culture, including kimono, tea ceremony, calligraphy, and ikebana. All experiences are available in English for foreign visitors. More details are available on the official website.
3. Chazen Tea Ceremony in Ginza:
Operated by a professor with over 30 years of experience in tea ceremony, with experiences starting from 3,500 yen per person. Prior reservation is required. Details can be found on the official website.
4. Tea Ceremony Experience "The Osaka":
Located near Shinsaibashi Station and Namba Station in Osaka's Dotonbori area, this facility is frequented by many foreign tourists and Japanese travelers. It offers a profound experience in a traditional tea room, where guests can enjoy the preparation and serving of matcha.
At these places, you can deeply experience the Japanese traditional culture of tea ceremony.