Tea Ceremony

Tea ceremony has been a traditional Japanese art form since the 15th century. It is much more than just serving and drinking tea - it's a deeply aesthetic experience.

Maccha (powdered tea leaves) is used in the tea ceremony. As one of the ceremony's most fundamental elements, the host is to follow various rules in every procedure of tea making, from making the fire, adding hot water to tea cups, stirring tea with a whisk until it gets foamy, to serving it.

Another important element is shared sense of communication between the host and the guests throughout the ceremony. To entertain the guests, the host takes utmost care in every step of the preparation processes, such as choosing everything from tea utensils, to a hanging scroll, flowers, a vase and other amenities to go with the environment.

The guests, in return , are expected to express their understanding of the host's consideration and gratitude toward the host's efforts.　

The level of formality may depend on the particular school of tea ceremony we follow. And, in a way, serving tea in our home to family or guests may be considered an informal extension of the ritual Japanese tea ceremony.