Experience traditional Japanese culture at the Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony — a gathering of tea and friendship

By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel & Lifestyle Network Editorial Department, compiled and reported
 
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Tokyo Arts Commission are committed to promoting traditional Japanese culture and performing arts. To pass on the "heart of Japan" to the next generation, they have launched cultural initiatives, one of which is the "Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony 2015," an event that allows participants to experience the art of the tea ceremony.

On October 3 and 4, the event will be held at the "Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum" (Koganei City, Tokyo), a historical building complex with cultural value, and on October 10 and 11 at the "Hama-rikyu Gardens" (Chuo Ward, Tokyo), making it a four-day event across two venues. Admission to Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is free, while Hama-rikyu Gardens requires an entrance fee.

The Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony has been held since Heisei 20 (2008), and this year marks its eighth edition. Tea schools from around the country gather together, with around 30,000 attendees last year. Since its inception, more than 130,000 people have participated. At both venues, visitors can enjoy a formal tea gathering in a “chashitsu” (tea room), participate in an outdoor “nodate” tea experience, or join a “tea ceremony beginner session” tailored for newcomers and foreigners.

At the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, there are also activities such as a “Children’s Tea Ceremony Class” for elementary school students, performances of traditional Japanese arts, and food stalls operated by the local Koganei City Chamber of Commerce.

This year marks the first time that Hama-rikyu Gardens will host a “nodate,” where participants can enjoy sencha (green tea) at a sencha seating area. Events planned include an “English nodate” with English explanations of tea preparation, a “High School Students’ Nodate” featuring demonstrations by high school students, and an “Edo Tecchū” magic performance.