Introduction
About Tea
History
Way of Tea
Iemotos
Tea Licenses
First Class
Video Library
When asked what to bring to class, the first item to bring is just yourself. Leave the distractions of the rest of the world behind and enter tea focused on the moment at hand. An important aspect of tea is the meditative and tranquil atmosphere created by the ceremony.
Visitors do not need to bring any of the following. Students, however, should purchase and bring:Student class fees are usually placed in an envelope and left on a table outside the tea room. If the teacher has a basket outside the tea room, use it. If not, place the envelope on the top self of the mizuya (washing area or “kitchen”).
Kimonos are not required for beginning students. Instead, comfortable clothing that allow for kneeling is needed. Avoid shorts, above-the-knees skirts (uncomfortable), or jeans (too abrasive on the tatami). Additionally, a belt or other means of tucking the cleaning cloth in should be included in the clothing chosen for class, if you are a host.
Remove necklaces, bracelets, watches and rings. These objects can strike fragile tea utensils, causing them to chip or break.
Knives and weapons are not appropriate in a tea house.
Bring a pair of white socks (or white tabi) to change into. Shoes can damage the tatami flooring.
If this will be your first experience with the Japanese tea ceremony, some things to know include: