What Really Happens in a Japanese Tea Ceremony? (Step by Step)

The history of Japan's tea festival dates back to the 12th century. Tea spread throughout Japan and was enjoyed among Buddhist practitioners. Tea was valuable as a beverage that quietly calmed the mind and supported meditation. Later, in the 16th century, the tea master Sen no Rikyū established the form and pace of the tea ceremony. Not a tea ceremony, but casual, trunk-like, simple beauty, Then, we served tea to the guests who had received Shinso's hospitality. This philosophy is known as "Wakishōjō." It is called harmony, respect, purity, and transcendence. This idea is very important for today's Tea Festival. Every movement at the tea ceremony has meaning. Before entering the tea room, guests first cleanse their hands to prepare their body and mind. In the past, customers would sometimes spend quiet moments, calling a small pipe a "kiseru." It calms the mind before entering the tea room. Next, before the customer enters, I toss a small entrance. Because this entrance is very low, you naturally bow when entering. Long ago, samurai carried swords, but this entrance was designed so that people could not enter while wearing swords. The sword is placed behind weapons, styles, and social attitudes. In the past, tea gatherings were not limited to people of high social status, but also included... For this reason, tea utensils are neatly arranged and cleaned in front of the guests. This exercise is conducted to ensure that you are completely relaxed and enjoying yourself. Today, the tea gathering is a place beloved by many people, It is a place where no one can forget their status. I feel at ease and experience a sense of peace. In the tea room, everyone is equal, and the space becomes peaceful. All details are reflected on the temple's speaker. In this way, before drinking tea, the guest gently rotates the tea bowl. This action carries many meanings. One reason is to prevent drinking from the front of the tea vessel. Drinking from the front of a tea vessel is considered the most beautiful aspect. By gently rotating the tea bowl, the guest shows respect toward it. Another reason is to be grateful for the tea vessel itself. The tea vessel is an essential part of the experience. By gently rotating the tea vessel, the guest can appreciate the shape and beauty of the tea vessel before enjoying the tea. During the festival of tea utensils, I wish to remember not to forget the routines of daily life and the busyness of fleeting moments. Enjoy the sound of hot water, the aroma and flavor of matcha, and the serene atmosphere.