A Modern Way to Experience japanese Tea ceremony
This table setting draws inspiration from cherry blossoms, a symbol of spring and renewal in Japan.
Instead of a traditional tatami room, I introduce a modern style of tea ceremony where matcha is prepared at a table. This approach makes Japanese tea culture more accessible and approachable, especially for those living outside of Japan.
I host these table-style tea ceremony lessons periodically, creating a space where anyone can experience the beauty of “Wa” in everyday life.
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Thoughtfully Arranged for Each Guest
Each place is carefully arranged with chawan (tea bowls), chasen (tea whisks), chashaku (tea scoops) natsume (tea caddies), and trays. This invites guests to slow down and be fully present in the moment.
This style of tea preparation follows the table-style temae of the Tsubaki no kai. I am a certified instructor of the Tsubaki no kai.
Seasonal Sweets as Edible Art
The delicate sweets in the center were custom-made by Edible Art by Natsuko, here in Portland. She creates authentic Japanese wagashi, always thoughtfully designed to reflect the season.
These sweets are called nerikiri, a traditional confection made from white bean paste and glutinous rice flour. Known for their intricate, seasonal designs, nerikiri are often described as edible art.
The yellow heart-shaped sweets are kohakutō, a traditional Japanese candy made from agar and sugar. It has a beautiful crystal-like appearance, with a crisp exterior and a soft, jelly-like inside.
Kimono Elements on the Table
The table runner is actually a children’s kimono obi with a cherry blossom pattern. I love incorporating kimono elements into everyday settings like this.
If you do not have an obi, a furoshiki can be a beautiful alternative. A furoshiki is a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth used to carry or wrap items, and it can easily be styled as a table accent. Placing it diagonally across the center of the table creates an elegant, eye-catching arrangement.
I found several cherry blossom furoshiki like these on Amazon, which work perfectly for creating a seasonal and elegant look.
🌸a black background with cascading cherry blossom design
🌸a light pink background with rabbits and small cherry blossoms design
🌸a soft pink design featuring a round cherry blossom pattern
Small Details that Create the Season
The small cherry blossom petals are used as chopstick rests, adding a subtle seasonal touch to each setting. These little details help bring the feeling of spring to the table.
The pink chawan with cherry blossom petals was a gift from my tea teacher in Japan when I first came to Portland about 20 years ago. I still cherish and use it to this day. It is a very special piece to me.
Bringing “Wa” into Everyday Life
I believe that Japanese culture does not have to remain in its traditional form to be meaningful.
Of course, I deeply appreciate traditional tea ceremony and will continue to study and practice it. At the same time, by adapting it to modern lifestyles, even across the world, I can continue to share its spirit of harmony, mindfulness, and beauty.
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