The steps to the ceremony are quite simple: clean the serving bowls, boil a pot of water, serve a sweet treat to guests before the tea, mix powdered bitter green tea (Matcha) and water to make a frothy tea, serve the tea to guests. The flavors of the sweets and bitter tea compliment each other. This is a sign of harmony.
1) Bow when you receive the cup of tea which is called a chawan.
2) Take the chawan with your right hand and place it in the palm of your left hand.
3) Turn the chawan clockwise three times before you take a drink.
4) When the tea is gone, make a loud slurp to tell the host that the tea was truly enjoyed.
5) Wipe the part of the chawan your lips touched with your right hand.
6) Turn the chawan counterclockwise and return to the host.
One of the key historical figures in the Japanese tea ceremony is Sen no Rikyu. He is believed to have emphasized these principles in the development of the tea ceremony. Today the Japanese Tea Ceremony is still actively studied by students of all ages. There are tea clubs in high schools, cities and the countryside. Although the ceremony was restricted to only the wealthy in the past, today it is something in which everyone can take part.
Sado
