By MOOK Scenic Spots Family, compiled report
The tea ceremony is not only a unique traditional ritual in Japan, where one can experience the essence of “wa-kei-sei-jaku” (harmony, respect, purity, tranquility) and “ichi-go ichi-e” (one time, one meeting) during a tea gathering, but it is also a vital part of the spirit of the tea ceremony. To allow travelers to experience the traditional spirit of Japanese tea culture, while also realizing that no two days are ever exactly the same, and no two journeys are identical, Beitou Nikko Kaga has specially launched a journey that combines gourmet dining, hot spring bathing, accommodation, and calligraphy experiences — creating an in-depth cultural holiday where travelers can listen to the echoes within their body, mind, and soul.
Yoshie, a senior butler at Beitou Nikko Kaga, said: The spirit of the tea ceremony includes “wa-kei-sei-jaku” and “ichi-go ichi-e.” “Wa” represents harmony between nature and people; “Kei” expresses mutual respect and courtesy between host and guest; “Sei” symbolizes the cleanliness of both the environment and one’s mind and body, free from distractions; “Jaku” is about distancing oneself from worldly noise, attaining a sense akin to Zen enlightenment. “Ichi-go ichi-e” means this particular tea gathering happens only once in a lifetime. Even if another tea gathering is held later, it will not be the same time or place — during the tea ceremony, one realizes that this encounter cannot be repeated, making it a once-in-a-lifetime meeting, which is the very essence of the Japanese tea ceremony.
“Ichi-go ichi-e” is one of the core essences of the tea ceremony spirit (Image provided by Nikko Kaga)
Beitou Nikko Kaga has specially launched the “Ichi-go Ichi-e Tea Ceremony Stay” package in early winter. For just one night in a twin garden-view or Japanese-Western standard room (which includes two meals), guests not only get to experience a tea ceremony course — with a dedicated butler explaining Japanese tea culture and etiquette — but also enjoy elements of calligraphy. In addition to learning how to whisk matcha, travelers can express their current state of mind through calligraphy on paper as a keepsake. Beyond spiritual fulfillment, there's also a luxurious meal including two servings of refined breakfast at Tencho Restaurant and two servings of seasonal dinner at Tencho. After enjoying exquisite Japanese cuisine, take a moment to rest, unwind in the expansive hot spring pool while gazing at the natural scenery, fully soaking in the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs, thoroughly relaxing, and letting go of external pressures.
Understanding the spirit of the Japanese tea ceremony in the “Ichi-go Ichi-e Tea Ceremony Stay” (Image provided by Nikko Kaga)
At Beitou Nikko Kaga, we want travelers on this “Ichi-go Ichi-e Tea Ceremony Stay” package to not only enjoy the tea ceremony but also dabble in calligraphy, appreciate traditional Japanese culture, and spend some quiet time in solitude with themselves.
Together, experience the tea ceremony spirit of “wa-kei-sei-jaku” and “ichi-go ichi-e,” and enjoy a truly Japanese cultural mind-body-spirit hot spring journey.
【Info】
Beitou Nikko Kaga
Address: No. 236, Guangming Road, Beitou District, Taipei City
Phone: (02)2898-5555
Reservation Hotline: (02)2891-1238
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》http://www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=12646