Tea Ceremony (Sadou)

How do you have your cuppa in the morning? With sugar and milk, or a hot cup of green tea?

茶道 (Sadou) literally translates from Japanese as “the way of tea” and is a Japanese tradition steeped in history. It is a ceremonial way of preparing and drinking green tea, and it is typically performed in a traditional tearoom with a 畳 (tatami) floor. It is often performed using 抹茶 (matcha) which is a powdered form of green tea, however, it can also be performed using 煎茶 (sencha) which is a form of leaf green tea. Other than serving and enjoying Japanese Green Tea, one of the main purposes of a tea ceremony is for the guests to enjoy Japanese-style hospitality and take a break from the rush and business of everyday life.

Tea was first introduced to Japan in the 8th Century from China, and, like Wasabi, was originally used for medicinal purposes. Traditional Tea Ceremonies have Zen-inspired origins and an emphasis on spirituality. Today’s Tea Ceremonies have become a popular hobby, and there are many places in Japan where tourists can experience an authentic tea ceremony for themselves. 京都 (Kyoto) and 宇治 (Uji) are among some of the best cities in Japan to enjoy their authentic tea culture. 

The Japanese Club participated in a Tea Ceremony Workshop during Week 2 of Term 4. Students were taught key phrases to use during the tea ceremony and proper tea ceremony etiquette. The students had to enter the room and sit in a 正座 (seiza) position on the floor, by placing their legs underneath their thighs and resting on their heels. They also had to bow before the host (Ms. Tooby) places the materials for the ceremony in front of them, which for the Japanese Club students were Japanese sweets and green tea.

A Japanese sweet is served before drinking the tea. The Japanese Club students were able to try Japanese 羊羹 (youkan) which is a jelly made out of red bean paste, agar, and sugar. After eating the sweets, the students were then able to taste the green tea. The tea was placed in a cup in front of the students, with the front of the cup facing them. Students were instructed to pick up the cup in their right hand and place it in their left palm. They were then told to turn the cup with their right hand in a clockwise motion so that the front of the cup was no longer facing them. Students were then to drink the tea by sipping it. They finished their portion of the tea ceremony by bowing to express their gratitude. 

The Japanese Club students thoroughly enjoyed this glimpse into traditional Japanese cultural practices. Why not try slowing down this week by enjoying a peaceful cup of Japanese green tea?

Kind regards,
Ms Tooby
Classroom Teacher