Japanese Tea Ceremony

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 ryūrei style, or table-style tea ceremony.

Historically in Japan, people didn't use chairs. They sat on the floor for most everything, even to eat meals. The ryūrei style of tea ceremony was created by Gengensai Seichū (1810-1877), the 11th head of the Urasenke school of tea ceremony, for an exposition held in 1872 in Kyoto. Many foreigners visited Japan at this time, so the government requested that an effort be made to modify the traditional form of tea ceremony as a way of making it more accessible.

The main feature of ryūrei style is that both host and guests sit on a chair. The seiza posture is no longer used, but utensils are used in the same way as in a normal tea ceremony. Although this one aspect of the ceremony is altered, the ryūrei style is otherwise the same as a tea ceremony seated on tatami using the seiza posture. Even Japanese people, who use the seiza posture much less than in the past, embrace the ryūrei style of tea ceremony because it places less of a burden on the legs and is more physically accessible.

We will be alternating weekly between ryūrei (sitting on chairs) and on tatami mats (sitting cross-legged on the tearoom floor).

Seated on tatami mats, sitting cross-legged or kneeling

• September 11
• October 2
• October 9
• October 30
• November 13

Ryūrei style - seated on chairs

• September 4
• October 16
• October 23
• November 6
• November 20

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What To Expect

After a brief tour that includes history of Japan House on the campus of the University of Illinois and information on the tea ceremony, watch as the host carefully and thoughtfully prepares each piece of equipment, chosen specifically for that day and season. Each guest will be served wagashi, a traditional seasonal Japanese sweet, and matcha tea in a unique handmade chawan, or tea bowl. Experience a moment of tranquility while learning about proper guest etiquette and the hundreds of years of tradition carried through tea ceremony. Each week, the wagashi will change according to what seasonal ingredients are available.

Afterward, there will be time for guests to ask questions, as well as to shop from a wall of unique Japanese-inspired treasures to support our paid internship program. Cash and credit cards accepted.

Tea ceremonies will feature a variety of special handmade sweets, or wagashi, using recipes from the cookbooks "Wagashi: Season by Season" and "The Art of Wagashi: Recipes for Japanese Sweets that Delight the Palate and the Eyes" written by Japan House Professor Emeritus Kimiko Gunji. The cookbook will be available for purchase.

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.

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FAQs

Why is tea ceremony sometimes served Ryūrei (table style) and not the traditional style on the tatami mats?

In order to accommodate guests of all ages and ranges of mobility, we offer a style of tea ceremony where all guests sit on chairs. Tea ceremonies where guests sit on tatami are held on alternating Wednesdays. For any questions about accessibility, please email [email protected]

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?

Japan House is located in the Arboretum at the University of Illinois at 2000 S. Lincoln Avenue between Kirby/Florida and Windsor Road. Parking is available in the lot to the north of Japan House (F-31 at St. Mary's Road and Lincoln) and to the south of Japan House (F-32 on Lincoln across from the Vet Med complex). Spaces are marked with a placard and must be paid with Mobile Meter or Park Mobile (https://parkmobile.io/ ) phone apps, or by calling 217-207-3033. After 5pm and weekends all parking spaces are free!

There are bike racks near both parking lots. The MTD Raven comes near Japan House on Lincoln Ave.

The front door is located on the north side of the building. Please allow plenty of time to park and get to the front door so we may start on time.

Is my registration/ticket transferrable?

Yes, if space allows, you may transfer your registration to a different event. Transfers must be requested at least 24 hours before the date of your initial reservation. EventBrite is the official ticket vendor for Japan House events - we do not use any other platform. Please do not purchase tickets from third-party sites or individuals.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

You do not have to bring your ticket. We will just need your name to check in.

The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?

The purchaser of the ticket can go to "My Tickets" and change the name to whomever will be attending.

What if I want to purchase more than 10 tickets or schedule a special group?

We are happy to work with you to schedule a group. Please email us at [email protected] with your inquiry. We can also talk about scheduling a tea ceremony at a private time for your group, depending on availability.

What is the refund policy?

Your registration is refundable if you contact us at [email protected] at least 24 hours before the date of your reservation. Please note that EventBrite fees are non-refundable.

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

Children are welcome as long as they are able to sit quietly throughout the ceremony. All minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult guardian at all times. A ticket is required for all party members regardless of whether they partake in the tea and sweet.

Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Contact us with any questions at [email protected]

What is Tomonokai? How can I support Japan House?

Tomonokai are "Friends of Japan House". The Tomonokai program was established in 1998 with a goal of supporting Japan House programming and events and promoting an understanding of Japanese Arts and Culture. This tax deductible membership entitles you to special member benefits including discounts on events and merchandise, and vouchers for private tea ceremonies.

Japan House is non-profit and fully relies upon the generosity and kindness of supporters to continue to provide our campus and community vibrant programming that is immersive, engaging, and most importantly, that celebrates diversity! Consider becoming Tomonokai, or Friend of Japan House, or support by

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Japan House, 2000 South Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, United States