Welcome to Part 2 of our guide on the Japanese tea ceremony. In this section, we will dive deeper into the flow of a tea gathering, important manners to know, and the key utensils used during the ceremony. If you haven’t yet read Part 1, be sure to check it out below for a complete introduction to the tea ceremony’s history and essence.
Table of Contents
Profile of Writer
Ryokufu Iwasaki
Traditional Japanese culture educator;
After gaining experience as a Japanese language teacher overseas, began sharing traditional Japanese culture with foreigners in Japan—offering lessons in calligraphy, tea ceremony, flower arrangement, kimono dressing, and Japanese cuisine.
Now working independently, with a main focus on calligraphy performances, calligraphy instruction, and the tea ceremony.
Actively engaged in passing on Japanese culture to the next generation and sharing it with the world.
If you’re interested in learning more about Japanese culture, check out the article below.
Chapter 1: The Flow of a Tea Gathering
Each tea school has its own style, but most tea gatherings follow this basic flow:
Greet others
Start by bowing quietly to the host (teishu) and other guests. This shows your respect and appreciation.Enter the tea room
Bow at the entrance. Walk slowly and quietly, and avoid stepping on the edges of the tatami mats.Appreciate the setting (haiken)
Take a moment to look at the hanging scroll and flowers in the alcove (tokonoma). Notice the host’s care in preparing the space. This helps you feel calm and focused.Watch the tea-making (temae)
The host prepares the tea with care and attention. Every movement has meaning. Watch closely and enjoy the beauty in the process.Eat the sweet
The host serves a traditional Japanese sweet before the tea. The sweet taste balances the bitterness of matcha.Drink the tea
When you receive the tea, bow lightly to the bowl. Say “Osaki ni, chōdai itashimasu” (お先に、頂戴いたします) to others. Turn the bowl slightly clockwise to avoid drinking from the front. Follow the host or other guests if you feel unsure.Thank the host
After drinking, thank the host by saying “Kekkō na otemae deshita” (結構なお点前でした). This means you appreciated the tea. Turn the bowl back so the front faces forward.
Chapter 2: Manners Beginners Should Know
Footwear
Take off your shoes before entering the tea room. When wearing a kimono, wear tabi (traditional white socks). When wearing regular clothes, choose plain white socks. Pick something clean and simple. Avoid bright colors or patterns.
Stay quiet
Respect the quiet atmosphere. Keep your conversation to a minimum. Turn off your phone and avoid chatting during the gathering.
Show care and respect
Treat every tea bowl and tool with care. They reflect the host’s attention and thoughtfulness. Use both hands when handling items, and show your appreciation through your actions.
Chapter 3: The Tea Room and Utensils
About the Tea Room
The tea room isn’t just a place to drink tea. Every part of the space and each tool carries meaning.
Tatami (straw mats): Pay attention to how you walk and sit. This helps you calm your mind.
Nijiriguchi (small entrance): Bow your head as you enter through the low doorway. This shows humility.
Tokonoma (alcove): The host decorates this space with seasonal scrolls and flowers. These reflect the theme of the tea gathering and the host’s intentions.
Basic Utensils
Tea bowl: The vessel used to drink tea. Enjoy its texture and weight as part of the experience.
Chashaku (Tea Scoop): A small spoon used to scoop matcha powder.
Chasen (Tea Whisk): A bamboo whisk used to carefully stir and froth the matcha.
The Japanese tea ceremony is more than just a way to drink tea. Every movement, space, word, and mindset carries deep meaning. While each tea school has its own style and rules, they all share the same core values: mindfulness, respect for others, and cherishing the present moment.
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