The Way of Tea

Chado, “the Way of Tea,” is a traditional, formal Japanese Tea Ceremony.  The ceremony was perfected in the 16th century by Japanese philosopher Sen no Rikyu.  Rikyu designed Chado as a spiritual practice of Wu (harmony), Kei (respect), Sei (purity) and Jaku (tranquility).  Chado is a practice in mindfulness, encouraging the participants to focus on the goodness around them and to be present in the moment.

Traditionally, guests walk through a landscaped garden before entering the tea house.  Upon arrival, they are greeted by the host in a simple room decorated with either a hanging scroll or a vase of flowers and a floor laid with mats made from woven reeds.  As guests kneel on the mats, the host serves sweets and matcha, a type of green tea, using elegant, choreographed movements.  The tea is served in ceramic bowls, using a hot iron kettle and stirred with a bamboo whisk.  This practice represents the five elements of Taoism: water, earth, wood, fire and metal.
 
Join tea practitioner Bob Bernhards for a traditional Japan Tea Ceremony at the Elden Street Tea Shop on Nov. 10 from noon to 4pm.  Limited seating in each session; four guests max per session.  We sincerely hope that this experience will broaden your appreciation of this art form and that you will, of course, enjoy a good bowl of tea.  Click here to buy your ticket!

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