Thoughts Embodied in the Act of Turning a Tea Bowl

～Japanese Aesthetic Sense Spun by 800 Years of History

First of all

My name is Ishii, and I am a tea ceremony master. I am often asked this question by people who have just started practicing the tea ceremony. Why do we drink from the tea bowl after turning it?

This is one of the most profound movements in the tea ceremony, with the deepest meaning and the most beautiful history. In this article, I would like to talk about this important gesture.

What is the meaning of turning the tea bowl?

1. to cherish the spirit of hospitality

The front of the tea bowl (the most beautiful part) is placed by the master of the tea ceremony facing the guest as a sign of respect. The guest, in order to show his/her appreciation for this thoughtfulness, turns the beautiful front part of the bowl outward from in front of him/her before receiving the tea.

This gesture has the following meanings

  • An expression of gratitude to the host
  • A humble mind that is considerate of the other person
  • An exchange of hearts through the sharing of beauty

2. practical reasons

There are also practical reasons behind the historical background:

  • To keep the part with the mouth clean
  • Protect the most beautiful part of the teacup from scratches
  • Ensure an even temperature of the tea

Historical Background

1. tradition from the Muromachi Period

From the end of the Kamakura period (1185-1333) to the Muromachi period (1333-1573), the tea ceremony began to spread under the influence of Zen Buddhism. From this time, the gesture of turning the tea bowl came to have the following meaning:

  • An expression of the Zen teaching of “no-self
  • Symbol of equality that transcends the distinction between master and guest
  • 1. harmony between aesthetics and practicality

2. development in samurai society

During the Warring States period, it added further meaning to the manners of the warrior class:

  • An expression of unguarded trust in one’s opponent
  • Character building through mastery of etiquette
  • Equality in the tea room that transcended hierarchy of status

Meaning in modern times

1. use in business situations

In modern times, it is utilized in the following situations:

  • Building trust in business negotiations
  • Introducing Japanese culture in international exchange
  • Part of team building

2. cultivating a richness of mind

In everyday life, these gestures also have important meanings:

  • A way of expressing gratitude
  • Cultivating a spirit of consideration for others
  • Understanding of traditional Japanese culture

Basics of Tea Bowl Rolling

1. basic gesture

  1. Receive the bowl with your left hand
  2. With your right hand, turn it clockwise about 90 degrees
  3. Turn the bowl so that the front of the bowl faces outward
  4. Lift it carefully with both hands so that the front of the bowl faces outward

2. points to keep in mind

  • Do not be in a hurry, be polite
  • Do not make noise
  • Keep your movements natural

On-site Tea Ceremony

Would you like to experience the world of tea ceremony, which has such a deep meaning, at your home or office?

We will travel to your home or office.

  • Tea ceremony experience at your home
  • Tea ceremony classes as in-house training
  • Japanese presentation of wedding photos

Privileges

  • First time only: free tea cakes
  • Group discounts available
  • Seasonal special plans available

Contact us for more information

Even a single gesture of turning a tea bowl has a deep meaning and history. By actually experiencing the tea ceremony, you will be able to feel the charm of the tea ceremony more deeply.

If you are considering introducing tea ceremony to your business event, please feel free to contact us. Our professional coordinators will listen to your needs and propose the best plan for you.

Please feel free to contact us.

We look forward to hearing from you with the heart of a lifetime. We invite you to experience the wonder of traditional Japanese culture through the tea ceremony.