From now I will write blogs about the tea ceremony. For the first post, I will be discussing the etiquette and mindset behind the tea ceremony.

When people think of the tea ceremony, they may have an image of it being stiff, expensive, or difficult with all its precise movements, thus they might feel barriers.

However, by understanding some basics, I believe one can gain a deeper appreciation of its beauty.

Tea Ceremony Etiquette

Let us start by discussing the tea ceremony etiquette.
The person who prepares the tea is called “Otemae-san”. The basic movements for an Otemae-san include bowing, entering the tea room, sitting properly, and performing the Otemae (the series of actions involved in making and serving matcha).

1. Bowing

Before entering the tea room or greeting the host or other guests, it is important to bow. Keep your back straight and bow slowly (at about a 45-degree angle).

2. Entering the Tea Room

The door of the tea room (Nijiriguchi) is small so you lower your head to enter, symbolizing the humility. Be careful not to step on the tatami edges or the threshold.

3. Sitting and Posture

During the tea ceremony, sitting in the seiza (formal sitting position) is the basic posture. Keep your back straight and rest your hands lightly on your thighs.

4. How to Drink the Tea

Before drinking, you say, “Otemae choudai itashimasu” (I humbly receive your tea).
Reach the tea bowl with your right hand, place it on your left hand, and then support it with your right hand.
Rotate the bowl two times clockwise to avoid drinking from the front painting side.
Drink slowly, about 3 sips and a half.
After finishing, wipe the rim with your finger, then return the bowl to its original position.

5. How to Eat the Japanese Sweets

Before drinking tea, Japanese sweets (wagashi) are served. You say, “Osakini” (Pardon me to eat first), and then you eat the sweets.
Use a dessert knife or kaishi (paper) to handle the sweets with care.

Seems like there is so much to remember just to drink some tea! If you are trying tea for the first time, it might be challenging. However, rather than aiming for perfection in the movements, it is necessary to focus on appreciating the delicious tea that the Otemae-san has prepared with care and feel it slowly.

Conclusion

The mindset in the tea ceremony is as follows:

・ Learn each movement slowly, without rushing.

・ It is more important to put your heart into those actions than to memorize the forms.

・ Always remember the feelings of “appreciation” , ” humility,” and “gratitude”

If you understand these three points, you will be able to enjoy your tea.

Above all, being respectful and considerate towards each other is the key.

In the teachings of the tea ceremony, there is a concept called Ichiza Kenkyu (一座建立).

This refers to the shared state of unity between the host (the one organizing the tea ceremony) and the guests (those attending). In other words, it is about creating a harmonious and pleasant atmosphere where both sides work together to form a space of unity.

Even without words, the host, Otemae-san, and guests can find a way to communicate through the movements and gestures during the tea ceremony.

Every action is filled with gratitude and respect.

Keep these feelings in mind, you will slowly begin to learn and experience it for yourself.

・ This article is translated from Teacher Elly’s writing 「はじめての茶道　第1回：茶道の所作と心得」