Feb 12, 2025
More than just a drink, the tea ceremony embodies Zen principles of mindfulness, simplicity, and respect. Each step, from preparing the tea to serving it, reflects harmony, purity, and tranquillity, turning the experience into a meditative practice.
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Japanese tea ceremonies change with the seasons. The utensils, tea type, decorations, and even the kimono worn by the host are carefully chosen to reflect the current time of year, creating an immersive experience connected to nature.
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Every tool used, from the chawan (tea bowl) to the chasen (bamboo whisk), has meaning. Some utensils are passed down through generations, with minor imperfections treasured as part of their beauty and history.
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Only high-quality matcha, finely ground green tea powder, is used in traditional ceremonies. The tea must be whisked to a perfect frothy consistency, and its flavour varies from delicate and sweet to rich and umami-filled.
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There are two main ways to serve tea: Usucha (thin tea) and Koicha (thick tea). Koicha is stronger and shared among guests, while Usucha is lighter and individually served. Both require precise preparation to achieve the right taste and texture.
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Traditional tea ceremonies take place in a chashitsu (tea room), often within a tea house or garden. Guests enter through a low door, symbolising humility, leaving behind status and worldly concerns before participating in the ritual.
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Guests follow precise customs, from bowing before entering to rotating the tea bowl before sipping. Every movement has meaning, showing appreciation for the host’s effort and honouring the centuries-old tradition.
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Becoming a teishu (tea master) requires years of dedicated practice. They learn not only tea preparation but also calligraphy, flower arrangement, kimono etiquette, and the philosophy behind the ritual, ensuring every detail is executed flawlessly.
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A kakemono (hanging scroll) is displayed in the tea room, featuring calligraphy or art that reflects the theme of the gathering. The scroll sets the mood, offering guests a moment of contemplation before the ceremony begins.
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In feudal Japan, samurai warriors embraced the tea ceremony to cultivate discipline, patience, and inner peace. The ritual provided a contrast to their warrior lifestyle, reinforcing balance and mindfulness in daily life.
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