The tea ceremony, or chado (meaning “the way of tea”), is one of Japan’s most significant cultural traditions, deeply embedded in everyday life.
The origins of tea in Japan date back to the 9th century when the Buddhist monk Eichu returned from China with sencha, a type of green tea, and presented it to Emperor Saga in a special ceremony. This was one of the first recorded instances of tea in Japan, though it took time to gain popularity.
Over the next few centuries, tea was initially consumed for medicinal purposes before becoming a beverage enjoyed for pleasure. By the late 12th century, a powdered form of green tea called tencha (matcha) had been developed. This tea was prepared by placing the powdered leaves into a bowl before adding hot water, creating a high-quality beverage that would eventually lead to the refinement of the Japanese tea ceremony.
During the rule of the Shogunate, tea became a luxury item and a symbol of the warrior class, bringing great prestige to its consumption. Tea ceremonies evolved from extravagant affairs to the more refined and solemn rituals seen today.
Essential Equipment for a Tea Ceremony
Five essential items are required to prepare tea during the ceremony:
Chakin – A small rectangular piece of linen cloth used to wipe the tea bowl.
Tea Bowl (chawan) – The vessel used for preparing and drinking the tea, with the finest bowls handcrafted on a pottery wheel.
Tea Caddy (natsume) – A small container that holds the powdered tea.
Tea Scoop (chashaku) – Traditionally carved from bamboo, ivory, or wood, it is used to transfer the tea powder from the caddy to the bowl.
Tea Whisk (chasen) – Made from bamboo, it is used to mix the powdered tea with hot water to create a smooth consistency.
The preparation and serving of tea follow strict choreography, performed with the utmost care. The tea is typically served alongside traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) to balance its natural bitterness. However, the ceremony is more than just about drinking tea—it is a meditative practice focused on preparing the tea with sincerity and honoring the guests.
The Guests and Their Roles
A tea ceremony typically includes several guests, each with designated roles. The guest of honor, known as the Shokyaku, holds a special position and is responsible for engaging in small talk with the host (Teishu), often asking about the beauty and significance of the utensils. The second guest, called the Jikyakusha, also follows specific ceremonial customs.
The ceremony begins with the serving of wagashi, which is usually set aside until the tea is ready. There are several formalities, including bows and expressions of gratitude, before the tea is finally consumed. When receiving the tea, the guest holds the bowl (chawan) in their left palm, rotating it clockwise three times with their right hand before drinking. After drinking, the part of the bowl that touched the lips is wiped, then rotated counterclockwise before being returned to the host.
The Tea Room
The setting of the ceremony is just as important as the ritual itself. The tea room is a tranquil space, typically about three meters square, with tatami mat flooring and simple, elegant decorations. There is often a small side door for guests to enter, designed to be low so that they must bow upon entry—symbolizing humility and equality among all participants.
The Japanese tea ceremony is a practice of mindfulness, harmony, and respect, emphasizing the beauty of simplicity and the spirit of hospitality. It remains a cherished cultural tradition, offering a moment of peace and reflection in modern life.
Where to Experience a Tea Ceremony in Japan
For tourists wanting to participate in a traditional tea ceremony, there are many opportunities throughout Japan. Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is one of the best places to experience an authentic tea ceremony, particularly in the historic districts of Gion and Higashiyama, where tea houses and temples offer sessions. Tokyo also has several options, including the tea rooms in Ueno Park and the Meiji Shrine gardens. In Kanazawa, the Nagamachi Samurai District and Kenrokuen Garden provide beautiful settings for a tea experience. Many cultural centres, hotels, and even some temples across Japan also offer tea ceremony experiences for visitors, ranging from simple demonstrations to full-length, immersive rituals.
