The tea ceremony, known in Japan as “chanoyu” (茶の遊) or “sado” (茶道), is a practice deeply rooted in Japanese culture. It is not merely about drinking tea; it is a ceremony rich in meaning and respect for the guest.
The tea ceremony has its roots in the Heian period (794-1185). At that time, tea was considered a precious medicine and its use was not common among the people. The dawn of the Muromachi period (1336-1573) saw the birth of Japanese aesthetics, including the tea ceremony. By the 16th century, drinking tea had become a common practice across all levels of society.
Sen no Rikyū is undoubtedly the most important figure when it comes to this practice, as he emphasized the philosophical and aesthetic aspects that stress the value of every encounter.
The four principles on which his philosophy is based are:
• Wa (Harmony): Balance between the guest, host, and environment
• Kei (Respect): Recognition of the importance of every individual and object used
• Sei (Purity): Cleanliness of tools and of the soul
• Jaku (Tranquility): A state of peace achieved through constant practice
Here’s an interesting fact: Oda Nobunaga, a ruler of the Sengoku era, introduced tea culture to his subordinates to soothe their raw and wounded minds after numerous wars, thus realizing his ambition to unify Japan.
Today in Japan, there are many tea houses where tourists and enthusiasts can participate in ceremonies led by tea masters, fully immersing themselves in Japanese culture. Certainly, Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is the ideal place to fully experience this.
A Refuge of Tranquility: The Magic of Hokokuji Temple and its Tea Room
Nestled among the hills east of Kamakura, Hokokuji Temple is a charming place where tall bamboo sways gently in the wind, creating an almost magical atmosphere. Inside the temple, there is a small tea room. Sitting in a quiet corner with a view of the surrounding greenery, I savored a carefully prepared cup of matcha. The taste was intense and refreshing, and each sip seemed to encapsulate the essence of the nature around me.
Conclusions
Today, the tea ceremony continues to be a bridge between the past and the present, allowing tourists and enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a ritual that celebrates the beauty of simplicity and the importance of the moment. Participating in a tea ceremony in Japan is thus an opportunity not just to savor a beverage, but to embrace a way of being that values the present, rediscovering the meaning of tranquility and harmony in everyday life.
