After the enchanting night under Ueno’s cherry blossoms, the journey continues into the serene world of the Japanese Tea Ceremony. Inside a tatami room, illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns, every sound falls silent except the gentle whisking of matcha.
The tea ceremony is more than drinking tea. It is “the way of being present” (ichi-go ichi-e 一期一会 — one time, one encounter), a reminder that each moment is unique and precious.
🌿 The Four Principles
1. Wa (和) – Harmony
2. Kei (敬) – Respect
3. Sei (清) – Purity
4. Jaku (寂) – Tranquility
🪷 Role of the Host (Teishu 主)
• Welcoming (Mukae 迎え): Bow humbly to greet the guests
• Room Arrangement: Seasonal flowers and a hanging scroll, reflecting nature and the moment
• Purification (Kiyome 清め): Clean utensils with graceful, deliberate movements
• Tea Preparation (Temae 点前): Scoop matcha, add hot water, whisk with a bamboo chasen until fine foam appears
• Presentation (Sashidashi 差し出し): Offer the bowl, turning its most beautiful side toward the guest
• Closing (Toji 閉じ): Collect utensils, bow once more, ending the ritual in calmness
🍵 Role of the Khun Guest
• Receive the tea bowl with both hands, showing respect
• Gently rotate the bowl before sipping, avoiding the front’s most beautiful side
• Drink slowly in 2–3 sips until finished
• Admire the tea bowl, honoring both the drink and the artistry
✨ The Deeper Meaning
The tea ceremony is the meeting point between a host who gives with reverence and a guest who receives with gratitude. Together, they create a fleeting yet eternal harmony — a lesson in mindfulness and the beauty of the present moment.