Tea Ceremony Class, led by Urasenke Associate Professor
Are you looking for a way to deepen your understanding of Japanese culture while finding a moment of peace in the hustle and bustle of Tokyo? Why not join our Tea Ceremony (Chado, Chanoyu) Class, led by Urasenke Associate Professor Emiko Masuda—a rare chance to experience this cherished tradition directly in English.
Held at Chawa Masudaya, a tea shop founded in 1930, this unique class is designed for travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience of Japanese culture. Whether you’re new to the tea ceremony or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class offers an exclusive opportunity to engage with one of Japan’s most spiritual and culturally significant practices.
What Makes the Japanese Tea Ceremony So Special?
The tea ceremony is much more than preparing and drinking tea—it’s a deeply spiritual and cultural experience that dates back centuries. Introduced to Japan along with Buddhism, the ceremony became a meditative practice for the educated elite. It beautifully blends spirituality with cultural appreciation, offering a moment of tranquility and reflection in our fast-paced lives.
At the heart of the tea ceremony is the spirit of Wa-Kei-Sei-Jaku (Harmony, Respect, Purity, and Tranquility), principles that guide each movement and interaction during the ceremony:
Harmony (Wa): Creating a peaceful connection with others and the surrounding environment.
Respect (Kei): Mutual respect among all participants.
Purity (Sei): Purifying both body and spirit, leaving behind distractions.
Tranquility (Jaku): Finding inner calm and stability in the practice of tea.
Each aspect of the tea ceremony reflects these values, making it not just a performance but a meditative practice that engages all the senses.
The Tea Room: A Sacred Space of Serenity
The tea ceremony is held in a traditional tea room, a space designed to harmonize with nature. With minimal furnishings and an atmosphere of calm, the tea room is a place where you can listen to the gentle sounds of water, nature, and your own inner voice. The act of entering the tea room through a small door called the Nijiriguchi symbolizes the shedding of ego and the simplicity of being in the moment.
In this serene setting, you will learn the art of tea preparation while understanding the deeper meaning behind each gesture.
Learn from an Esteemed Urasenke Associate Professor
This class is taught by Emiko Masuda, an Urasenke associate professor with a deep mastery of the Japanese tea ceremony. Masuda-sensei is not only a direct disciple in the Urasenke tradition—one of the most respected tea schools in Japan—but she also has extensive experience teaching abroad. Fluent in English, she will guide you through each step of the ceremony with grace and clarity, ensuring that you walk away with a deep appreciation for the art of tea.
With a master’s degree in traditional Japanese culture and a wealth of experience in culinary arts, Masuda-sensei’s expertise goes far beyond tea. She brings a holistic approach to her classes, connecting the dots between food, history, and spirituality in ways that are both engaging and enlightening.
This is a rare chance to learn directly from an Urasenke associate professor in English—an opportunity not to be missed, even for those living in Japan!
Experience Zen Through Tea
Did you know that the tea ceremony is closely tied to Zen Buddhism? Prominent tea masters such as Sen no Rikyū often practiced Zen, and the tea ceremony itself embodies many Zen principles, such as simplicity, mindfulness, and living in the present.
Through the tea ceremony, you will experience the Zen practice of appreciating the simple things in life—like the warmth of the tea bowl in your hands, the sound of water being poured, or the soft rustle of tatami mats beneath your feet. This is a moment to pause, reflect, and connect with the present in a way that is often lost in the modern world.
An Immersive Cultural Experience for All
The tea ceremony is a beautiful introduction to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a traveler hoping to learn more about Japan’s traditions, or someone curious about the connection between Buddhism, Zen, and the art of tea, this class offers something for everyone. The hands-on nature of the tea ceremony will allow you to fully participate, and even those with no prior knowledge will leave with a deep sense of connection to this ancient art form.
Why Join This Class?
Led by an Urasenke Associate Professor
Learn directly from a respected tea master with years of experience teaching both in Japan and abroad.
Taught in English
This class offers a rare chance to experience the tea ceremony in English, ensuring you understand every detail of this ancient practice.
Deepen Your Cultural Knowledge
Discover the intricate connection between Zen Buddhism, Japanese history, and the tea ceremony, guided by an expert.
Small Class Size
With a limited number of participants, you'll receive personalized instruction and a more intimate experience.
Reserve Your Place for This Exclusive Experience!
Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the tea ceremony with a Urasenke associate professor in the heart of Shinjuku. Whether you’re looking to deepen your connection to Japanese culture or simply take a break from the rush of everyday life, this class offers an unforgettable experience.
Book Experience
How to Chawa Masudaya
It’s only a 4-minute walk from both JR Okubo Station (Sobu Line) and JR Shin-Okubo Station (Yamanote Line), offering excellent accessibility. JR Okubo Station is just one stop away from JR Shinjuku Station on the Sobu Line. JR Shin-Okubo Station is just one stop away from JR Shinjuku Station on the Yamanote Line.
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