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Japanese Tea Ceremony
Japan House
2000 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61801
(217) 244-9934
Category
Hours
View Website
Chado, or the Way of Tea, is one of the most ancient and
revered arts of Japan and is at the very heart of Japan House.
It is a ceremonial way of preparing and serving matcha (powdered green tea)
that benefits both the host and the guest through mutual respect,
non-verbal communication, and a calmness,
or sense of peace, away from everyday life.
There are many different variations of this revered 500-year-old art form.
Traditionally, guests sit in the seiza posture on the tatami mats
(kneeling with legs folded underneath and resting on the heels).
There is also a variety of tea ceremony in which one sits on a chair
while drinking the tea called ry?rei style, or table-style tea ceremony.
We will be alternating weekly between ry?rei (sitting on chairs)
and on tatami mats (sitting cross-legged on the tearoom floor).
Seated on tatami mats, sitting cross-legged or kneeling
February 25, March 25, April 8, April 22, May 6, May 20
Ry?rei style - seated on chairs
March 4, April 1, April 15, April 29, May 13
Reservations are required, no walk-ins or observers
will be allowed due to limited space inside and the intimate
nature of the tea ceremony. Space is limited.
Regarding attire: all guests will be asked to remove shoes upon entering,
and to wear clean, white socks (we have some to lend you if you forget).
We ask that attendees dress modestly and legs be covered as is
traditional in Japan. Bags and electronic devices can be
securely stored in our front cubbies.
Please do not be late - once the tea ceremony begins,
entry will not be permitted as it is disruptive to the experience.
Student tickets $16 plus fees
General Admission $18 plus fees