March 3rd is Hinamatsuri — also known as Momo no Sekku, or the “Festival of Peaches.” But why peaches? It’s not simply because they bloom in early spring. In both ancient Japan and China, the peach was believed to be a sacred fruit with the power to ward off evil spirits. Why Is the Peach […]
Wagashi: Traditional Japanese Sweets Born from Nature Wagashi (和菓子) are traditional Japanese confections that have evolved alongside the country’s four seasons. Their appeal goes far beyond their visual beauty — wagashi are also celebrated as sweets that are gentle on the body, crafted from wholesome natural ingredients. Paired with matcha, they offer a window into […]
“I want to offer a matcha experience, but I don’t have any tea ceremony tools.” “I’m not sure what equipment I need or where to start.” “I don’t need a full traditional setup, but I want to create an authentic atmosphere.” When planning tea ceremony or matcha experiences, we often hear concerns like these. Tea […]
I want to know!Major Style of Tea Ceremony and Their Personalities If you are interested in the tea ceremony, you may be wondering which school you should study.In this article, we will introduce the major schools of tea ceremony in an easy-to-understand manner for beginners. Knowing the Three Major Schools: The Lineage of the Senke […]
Have you ever wondered about Japanese tea ceremony but felt intimidated by its formality? You’re not alone. While this centuries-old practice might seem shrouded in mystery and strict rules, at its heart lies something beautifully simple: the act of serving tea with a pure heart. Let’s explore how this ancient art can enrich our modern […]
Introduction The tea ceremony is more than just a manner of drinking tea; it is an art form that embodies the essence of traditional Japanese culture.In this article, we will explain the basic manners and etiquette of tea ceremony in an easy-to-understand manner for beginners who wish to begin. Table of Contents Preparation for the […]
A Tea Master Explains How to Combine Kimono and Obi Ranks To wear a kimono beautifully, it is important to match the rank of the kimono and obi. In particular, tea ceremony practice and tea ceremonies require appropriate attire for the occasion. In this article, we will explain the basic combinations of ranks of kimono […]
Introduction Choosing a kimono in the world of the tea ceremony is not just a fashion choice. It is a form of self-expression in the special space of a tea ceremony, and at the same time, an important element of respect for the host and other participants. The concept of “rank” is the most important […]
If you’ve ever attended a Japanese tea ceremony — or watched one — you may have noticed a quiet, deliberate moment: before drinking, the guest slowly rotates the tea bowl in their hands. It looks simple. But this single gesture carries over 800 years of history, philosophy, and human feeling. My name is Ishii, and […]
What is Matcha? A Complete Guide to Japanese Green Tea Matcha is a traditional Japanese green tea powder made from finely ground tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea, you consume the entire leaf, making matcha richer in flavor and nutrients. Today, matcha is enjoyed worldwide—not only in tea ceremonies but also in modern lifestyles such […]
