Overview
Japanese tea ceremony, known in Japan as chanoyu (“hot water for tea”) or chadō (“the way of tea”) is considered a representative traditional art of Japan. This ritual, with a history spanning over 800 years, comprises a mixture of socializing, meditation, and appreciation of a good drink, and remains popular to this day.
During a tea ceremony, powdered green tea, or matcha, is prepared using traditional tea utensils. The series of movements and associated ritual, based in Zen Buddhism, help to calm the mind and improve concentration. During the ceremony, silence is maintained, allowing subtle sounds and nuances of light that are normally overlooked to take center stage. A bowl of matcha prepared and sipped in this setting will have a deeper, richer taste than usual, permeating the entire body.
While chanoyu has its origins in Buddhism and court etiquette, at its heart it is meant to be a gathering of friends enjoying tea together. You don’t have to be a cultural expert to partake in good tea and good company, and this class is a wonderful first experience for those from all walks of life who are curious about tea ceremony.
While tea ceremony is often performed with all of the participants sitting on the floor, this can be hard on the body. Instead, this class is held around a table, to make it easy for everyone to participate and learn about the traditions and history of tea in Japan. Incorporate meditation through chanoyu into your daily routine and aim for a balanced and fulfilling life for both body and mind!
There are no required materials for this class; participants are encouraged to come as they are! Optional class supplies include a tea bowl (a ceramic bowl about 5 inches in diameter) and a kimono, but neither is required; we will have bowls for all students, and all manner of attire is welcome.
Whether you just want to come once to see what it’s about, or want to set off on the road of becoming a Tea Master yourself, this class is the perfect start for your journey through the fascinating world of chanoyu!
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About the Instructor
Yoshitsugu Nagano
Japanese Tea Ceremony Master
Since arriving in the US, Mr. Nagano has conducted more than 150 tea ceremonies and given over 400 lectures. Despite starting his activities amidst the pandemic, he persevered as the sole tea practitioner in New York City. As a result, individuals fatigued by the seemingly endless pandemic began to gather, seeking solace and enlightenment through the Way of Tea, gradually expanding the community.
In 2022, Mr. Nagano took on the role of organizer and representative for Chanoyu Week NYC. This week-long event aims to introduce the Way of Tea to the people of New York, drawing upon his experiences during the pandemic. Recognizing that society faced an unprecedented crisis and should have united to overcome it, he observed a stark contrast where diverse communities in New York clashed and became divided. Mr. Nagano firmly believed that the spirit of “coexistence,” central to the tea ceremony, which unites individuals as one through the act of sharing a cup of tea, could help reunite New York. Consequently, Chanoyu Week NYC will be held annually in November, fostering harmony and unity.
In addition to his accomplishments, Mr. Nagano has collaborated with various corporations and organizations in the past, including:
- Weekly and special tea ceremonies held at Globus Washitsu as Globus Chashitsu (teahouse) in house tea master
- Lectures and tea ceremonies at Bulgari NY Office
- Tea ceremonies held at Aman Hotel NY
- Lectures at art museums and galleries such as Ippodo Gallery, Onishi Gallery, Fu Qiumeng Fine Art, and Poster House Museum.