1. The Japanese Tea Ceremony

2. Vocabulary Chaji – full length tea ceremony Temae – the formal manners used in a tea ceremony Wabi-cha – tea ceremony styled on Zen principles Koicha - tea

3. History of the Ceremony Green tea was first imported from China. Early drinkers used green tea as a form of medicine or to stay awake during long meditation sessions at Buddhist monasteries. Tea ceremonies are rituals which show Buddhist principles and are meant to honor guests.

4. Tea Ceremonies Today In 1868, women became the primary practitioners of the tea ceremony. Every young woman of the upper classes is expected to study the ceremony as a way to develop fine manners and pass on the Japanese culture. Schools exist all over Japan and throughout the world (the closest to us is held at Sac State) to teach the ceremony. People study for years to perfect the ceremony.

5. Important Facts About Tea Ceremonies Ceremonies are held in SILENCE. Elaborate systems of bowing are used to show respect. The ceremony is closely linked to Buddhist teachings. Ceremonies last between 1-5 hours. Special tools are used only during the ceremonies and are collected and passed down through families.

6. Procedure Guests wait in a garden before entering the tea house. Upon entering they purify themselves by washing hands and rinsing out their mouths. They remove shoes before entering the tea house. The door of the tea house is built low. This is meant to remind guests that all are equal. A small meal may be served to stop hunger pangs and then guests return to the garden to wait for the main ceremony. The ceremony starts with the serving of small sweets. These are picked up special wooden picks and served on special papers brought by each guest. The tea is made according to a specific tradition with special tools. The guest of honor is served first. All guests use the same cup – this is meant to show unity and respect.