Intro to Tea Ceremony
Nervous about attending a tea ceremony?
Tea ceremony seems too difficult?
Do not want to sit on a Tatami mat for an hour?
No worries.
You do not need to know every step of the tea ceremony. You will get enough information to gain a window into the Japanese mind by experiencing a tea ceremony at an 85-year old authentic tea house, Houan. We provide chairs upon request.
The experience starts with the tea master welcoming you, introducing the tea house, discussing the relationship between the tea ceremony, Zen, and Kamakura. Before attending the tea ceremony, you will practice manners as a guest, including how to walk in the Tatami room, and how to take a bowl of tea. For the second half of the experience, you will attend the tea ceremony.
You will enjoy the silence during the ceremony and enjoy a bowl of tea. After the tea ceremony, the tea master will explain the procedures of the tea ceremony. You will have enough time to ask all the questions you might have. If time allows, we welcome you to admire the tea house and the little garden after the class.
Duration
1h
Price
The price varies depending on the group size. Please inquire.
Eligibility
Age: 6+ (Minors must be accompanied by a guardian)
Please Bring
your mask, socks (preferably white)
First, you will practice manners as a guest.
For the second half, you will attend the tea ceremony. Afterward, you can ask any questions about the tea ceremony.
About the Instructor
Southi Yokoyama
Professor of the Omotesenke school of tea ceremony. She began her practice inspired by her parents. A pupil of tea master, Sogo Yoshimizu, she owns her own tea house, Ryoushouken in Setagaya, Tokyo and teaches tea ceremony across the Kanto region. Vice president of Japanese Traditions Preservation Association. Organizes Omotesenke tea ceremony club at the Houan in Kita-Kamakura. She strives not only to preserve the traditional tea ceremony but also to spread the enjoyment of tea by offering classes allowing casual clothing and settings with tables and chairs.
About the Instructor
Souka Shimada
Certified Omotesenke tea ceremony instructor. Teaches an introduction to the tea ceremony class at Houan in Kita-Kamakura and is known for her clear and easy-to-follow instructions for beginners. Associated with the Omotesenke Association of Kanagawa and the Kanagawa Suigetsukai. Studied under Sogo Yoshimizu and Soko Nagamine. Directs the Sazankai tea ceremony group at the Kamakurayama Community Center.
Important Notes
Please wear comfortable clothes.
Please use public transportation if possible.
Venue
Tea House, Houan
1415 Yamanouchi, Kamakura-shi Kanagawa 247-0062
about a 10-minute walk from JR Kita-Kamakura Station
