Learn the Authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony from Udemy

In Japan, Chado, known as the tea ceremony, involves more than just drinking matcha tea.

Chado has a history of over 500 years and many people around the world continue to study and enjoy the benefits of the tea ceremony experience.

Chado teaches us how to sharpen our senses by practicing mindfulness and how to improve our state of mind. It is a classic method to realize spiritual discipline.

Consisting of 18 segments of video material, this self-learning course provides students with a well-rounded experience in the world of Chado including its history, a thorough explanation of the utensils used in the tea ceremony, and detailed instruction of the basic tea-making procedure.

In the video material, explanatory narration and video clips combined with slow-motion footage and still image act as clear guides for the students.

In addition, the downloadable text of the narration for each video is provided as a PDF for you to confirm all the detailed instructions.

Also, students will be able to analyze an authentic tea gathering and understand the unique story behind it.

This self-paced virtual course is designed for students to have a deep understanding of this unique ancient meditative Japanese tradition and cultural treasure and master the basic performance of the tea ceremony as both a host and a guest.

Segments of Video Material:
1. Introduction of Chado
Study points are:
Fundamental characters of Chado,
how to practice the teachings of Chado,
what we gain from the practice of Chado, and
how we distinguish Chado from other Japanese traditional arts.
2. History of Chado
Study points are:
The backgrounds of the era when Chado was established,
who initiated it and how it developed Wabi-cha (Wabi-sabi style of Chado), and
why Chado has been inherited as it is to this day.
3. Introduction of Chaji
Chaji is a tea gathering conducted in the concept of Chado in its original style. I will show a video from an actual Chaji.
Study points are:
The entire process of Chaji,
the attitude the host and guests should have, and
how we practice the teachings of Chado through Chaji.
4. Introduction of Tea Bowls
Study points are:
The characters of tea bowls used for tea ceremonies,
variety of tea bowls, and
aspects of tea bowls to appreciate such as color, shape and texture.
5. Introduction of Chashaku, a bamboo tea scoop.
Study points are:
The characters of chashaku used for tea ceremonies,
how we categorize chashaku,
“mei,” the poetic name conferred to chashaku,
the process of the production of chashaku, and
each part of chashaku to appreciate such as color and shape.
6. Introduction of Chasen, a bamboo tea whisk.
Study points are:
Chasen comes with different numbers of tines (split pieces),
how to choose the chasen,
the process of the production of chasen, and
how to maintain chasen before and after use.
7. Introduction of Tetsubin, an iron kettle.
Study points are:
The character of tetsubin,
different points between a tetsubin and an iron teapot,
how to maintain tetsubin, and
how to deal with rust.
8. Introduction of Chakin, a white fabric made of hemp used to wipe the tea bowl.
Study points are:
How to prepare chakin for the ceremony,
how to handle chakin during the ceremony, and
what to do with it after its usage.
9. Introduction of Matcha
Matcha is finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves
Study points are:
Matcha as one of the green teas,
the different characters of matcha from other green teas,
how the matcha is made, and
the main ingredients and health benefits of green teas in general.
10. Introduction of Fukusa, a square silk, kobukusa, a small square silk with patterns, kaishi, a packet of washi paper, kashikiri, a small knife for cutting sweets, and sensu, a folding fan.
Study points are:
The basic information such as size and usage of each item,
how to handle each item, and
the basic process to handle fukusa for a host and a guest.
11. Warigeiko (part training) 1: How to purify the natsume, a tea powder container.
Study points are:
The intricate movement of each step during the purifying process, and
the way to handle the fukusa.
12. Warigeiko (part training) 2: How to purify the Chashaku, a bamboo tea scoop.
Study points are:
The intricate movement of each step during the purifying process, and
the way to handle the fukusa.
13. Warigeiko (part training) 3: "chasen-toshi" performed for warming up the tea bowl and softening the chasen.
Study points are:
The precise movement of each step during the moving of the chasen and
the way to use certain fingers.
12. Warigeiko (part training) 2: How to purify the chashaku, a bamboo tea scoop.
Study points are:
The intricate movement of each step during the purifying process, and
the certain way to handle the fukusa.
13. Warigeiko (part training) 3: "Chasen-Toshi" performed for warming up the tea bowl and softening the chasen.
Study points are:
The precise movements of each step during the movement of the chasen and
the way to use the fingers and wrist.
14. Preparation for Bonryaku Demae.
Study points are:
Recommendations for the atmosphere of the ceremony,
the how to select some main items used for the ceremony, and
the positions of each utensil.
16. Demonstration of Bonryaku Demae.
Study points are:
The order of the process and pace, and
the entire mood and rhythm of the ceremony.
17. Bonryaku Demae using tables with a guest.
Study points are:
The entire order of the process,
how to drink a bowl of tea and eat sweets,
important Japanese phrases used during the ceremony,
how to interact between a host and a guest, and
the attitude during the ceremony of the host and the guest.
18. Bonryaku Demae in the tea room with a guest.
Study points are:
The entire order of the process,
how to drink a bowl of tea and eat sweets,
the certain rules of walking and moving in the tea room,
important Japanese phrases used during the ceremony,
the interaction between a host and a guest, and
the attitude during the ceremony of the host and the guest.

What's inside

Learning objectives

A comprehensive knowledge of chado known as japanese tea ceremony.
Detailed instructions on the process and movement of the tea-making performance for hosts , and how to perform in the tea room as a guest.
Basic information on utensils used in tea ceremonies such as tea bowls, tea scoops, etc.

How to connect with nature without being in nature in the tea room.
How to harmonize with people by practicing the teachings of chado.

A comprehensive knowledge of chado known as japanese tea ceremony.
Detailed instructions on the process and movement of the tea-making performance for hosts , and how to perform in the tea room as a guest.
Basic information on utensils used in tea ceremonies such as tea bowls, tea scoops, etc.
How to connect with nature without being in nature in the tea room.
How to harmonize with people by practicing the teachings of chado.

Syllabus

Introduction of Chado

Introduction of the virtual course and instructor.

Introduction of utensils required for Bonryaku Demae, a basic tea ceremony.

1. Introduction of Chado

Study points are:

• Segments of Video Material:

1. Introduction of Chado

Study points are:

Fundamental characters of Chado,

how to practice the teachings of Chado,

what we gain from the practice of Chado, and

how we distinguish Chado from other Japanese traditional arts.

History of Chado

Study points are:

The backgrounds of the era when Chado was established,

ho initiated it and how it developed Wabi-cha (Wabi-sabi style of Chado), and why Chado has been inherited as it is to this day.

Introduction of Chaji: Chaji is a tea gathering conducted in the concept of Chado in its original style. I will show a video from an actual Chaji.

Study points are:

The entire process of Chaji,

the attitude the host and guests should have, and

how we practice the teachings of Chado through Chaji.

Introduction of Tea Bowls.

Study points are:

The characters of tea bowls used for tea ceremonies,

variety of tea bowls, and

aspects of tea bowls to appreciate such as color, shape, and texture.

Introduction of Chashaku, a bamboo tea scoop.

Study points are:

The characters of chashaku used for tea ceremonies,

how we categorize chashaku,

“mei,” the poetic name conferred to chashaku,

the process of the production of chashaku, and

each part of chashaku to appreciate such as color and shape.

Introduction of Chasen, a bamboo tea whisk.

Study points are:

Chasen comes with different numbers of tines (split pieces),

the process of the production of chasen, and

how to maintain chasen before and after use.

Introduction of Tetsubin, an iron kettle.

Study points are:

The character of tetsubin,

different points between a tetsubin and an iron tea pot,

how to maintain tetsubin, and

how to deal with rust.

Introduction of Fukusa, a square silk, kobukusa, a small square silk with patterns, kaishi, a packet of washi paper, kashikiri, a small knife for cutting sweets, and sensu, a folding fan.

Study points are:

The basic information such as size and usage of each item,

how to handle each item, and

the basic process to handle fukusa for a host and a guest.

Introduction of Matcha

Matcha is finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves

Study points are:

Matcha as one of the green teas,

the different characters of matcha from other green teas,

how the matcha is made, and

the main ingredients and health benefits of green teas in general.

Introduction of Chakin, a white fabric made of hemp used to wipe the tea bowl.

Study points are:

How to prepare chakin for the ceremony,

how to handle chakin during the ceremony, and

what to do with it after its usage.

How to purify the natsume, a tea powder container.

Study points are:

The intricate movement of each step during the purifying process, and

the way to handle the fukusa.

How to purify the Chashaku, a bamboo tea scoop.

Study points are:

The intricate movement of each step during the purifying process, and

the way to handle the fukusa.

"chasen-toshi" performed for warming up the tea bowl and softening the chasen.

Study points are:

The precise movement of each step during the moving of the chasen and

the way to use certain fingers.

Preparation for Bonryaku Demae.

Study points are:

Recommendations for the atmosphere of the ceremony,

the how to select some main items used for the ceremony, and

the positions of each utensil.

In this segment, you will learn about the entire process of Bonryaku Demae.

Demonstration of Bonryaku Demae.

Study points are:

The order of the process and pace, and

the entire mood and rhythm of the ceremony.

Bonryaku Demae using tables with a guest.

Study points are:

The entire order of the process,

how to drink a bowl of tea and eat sweets,

important Japanese phrases used during the ceremony,

how to interact between a host and a guest, and

the attitude during the ceremony of the host and the guest.

Bonryaku Demae in the tea room with a guest.

Study points are:

The entire order of the process,

how to drink a bowl of tea and eat sweets,

the certain rules of walking and moving in the tea room,

important Japanese phrases used during the ceremony,

the interaction between a host and a guest, and

the attitude during the ceremony of the host and the guest.

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores Chado, which has a rich history spanning over 500 years, offering learners a deep dive into a unique aspect of Japanese cultural heritage

Provides detailed instruction on the basic tea-making procedure, making it accessible for beginners to master the fundamental performance of the tea ceremony

Teaches how to sharpen senses through mindfulness and improve one's state of mind, aligning with the classic methods of realizing spiritual discipline

Offers detailed explanations of the utensils used in tea ceremonies, such as tea bowls and tea scoops, enhancing learners' understanding of the practical elements

Covers the roles of both host and guest, providing learners with the knowledge to confidently participate in or host a tea ceremony, enhancing their social skills

Requires learners to acquire specific utensils, such as tea bowls, tea scoops and kettles, which may pose a barrier to some who wish to take the course

Reviews summary

Authentic japanese tea ceremony basics

According to learners, this course offers a solid introduction to the authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony, focusing on history, philosophy, utensils, and the basic Bonryaku Demae procedure. Many students found the instructor's explanations clear and detailed, making the complex movements understandable, especially with the help of slow-motion video footage. The cultural and spiritual aspects were highly appreciated, adding depth beyond just the mechanics. Some reviewers noted that mastering the procedures requires significant personal practice and highlighted the need for specific tea ceremony utensils to follow along fully.

Excellent starting point for newcomers.

"It provides a very solid foundation in the basic procedures and etiquette."

"This is a perfect course if you are completely new to the Japanese Tea Ceremony."

"As a beginner, I found the pace and level of detail appropriate for learning the fundamentals."

"I felt well-prepared to attempt the basic Bonryaku Demae after completing the course."

"It clearly distinguishes itself from other Japanese arts and explains its unique character."

Video quality aids learning movements.

"The use of slow-motion footage is incredibly helpful for understanding the precise hand and finger movements."

"The video demonstrations are clear and easy to follow along with, especially for the practical sections."

"Combining narration with video clips and still images works well."

"Seeing the full Bonryaku Demae demonstration provides a great sense of the flow and rhythm."

"The videos showing the ceremony with a guest, both at a table and in a tea room, are valuable."

Goes beyond mechanics to culture/mindfulness.

"This course beautifully explains the philosophy and spiritual discipline behind Chado, not just the steps."

"I loved learning about the history and the mindset (Wabi-cha) required for the ceremony."

"It really helped me understand how to practice mindfulness through the movements."

"Connecting with nature and harmonizing with people as core teachings resonated deeply with me."

"The course provides a profound understanding of the cultural treasure the tea ceremony represents."

Comprehensive overview of tea ceremony tools.

"The sections on the different tea ceremony utensils (chawan, chasen, chashaku) were incredibly informative."

"I learned so much about the history and appreciation of each item used in the ceremony."

"Understanding the significance of the chashaku's 'mei' and the care of the tetsubin added so much value."

"The detailed introduction to each utensil helps build a deeper connection to the practice."

"The information on matcha, its making, and health benefits was a nice bonus."

Instructor explains complex steps clearly.

"The instructor is very knowledgeable and explains everything clearly. I feel like I can actually perform the movements now."

"Detailed explanations of the steps make it easy to follow along. The instructor's guidance is excellent."

"I appreciate how the instructor breaks down the complex purification and whisking movements into simple steps."

"The explanation of each movement is incredibly detailed, which is crucial for learning this tradition."

"The clear instructions on handling the fukusa and other items were very helpful for beginners."

Need own supplies and dedication for mastery.

"To truly benefit, you absolutely need to get the proper utensils and practice the movements constantly."

"While the instructions are clear, the intricate movements require significant personal repetition to master."

"Getting the right chawan, chasen, etc., is essential but can be an investment."

"The course gives you the knowledge, but it's up to you to put in the hours of physical practice."

"It's a great start, but this is just the beginning; actual proficiency comes with dedicated effort."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learn the Authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony with these activities:

Read 'The Book of Tea' by Kakuzo Okakura

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Provide a foundational understanding of the philosophy and aesthetics behind the Japanese tea ceremony.

View The Book of Tea on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'The Book of Tea'.
Read the book, taking notes on key concepts.
Reflect on how the book's themes relate to mindfulness and harmony.

Review Japanese Etiquette

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Familiarize yourself with basic Japanese etiquette to enhance your understanding of the tea ceremony's social context.

Browse courses on Japanese Etiquette

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Research common Japanese customs and manners.
Focus on etiquette related to gift-giving and social interactions.
Make notes on key phrases and behaviors.

Practice Tea Bowl Handling

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Reinforce your understanding of tea bowl handling techniques through repetitive practice.

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Obtain a tea bowl or similar object.
Practice holding and rotating the bowl as demonstrated in the course.
Repeat the movements until they feel natural and fluid.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Document Utensil Research

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Solidify your knowledge of tea ceremony utensils by creating a detailed research document.

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Choose 3-5 utensils from the course materials.
Research each utensil's history, purpose, and proper handling.
Compile your findings into a well-organized document with images.

Read 'Tea Life, Tea Mind' by Soshitsu Sen XV

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Gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual and philosophical aspects of Chado.

View Putting Knowledge to Work on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'Tea Life, Tea Mind'.
Read the book, focusing on the author's personal reflections.
Consider how the book's themes relate to your own life and practice.

Plan a Mock Tea Ceremony

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Test and solidify your skills and knowledge by planning a mock tea ceremony.

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Choose a specific type of tea ceremony to emulate.
Gather the necessary utensils and prepare the space.
Practice the procedures and movements.
Invite friends or family to participate as guests.

Create a Tea Ceremony Guide

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Create a comprehensive guide to a specific tea ceremony procedure to reinforce your understanding.

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Select a specific tea ceremony procedure (e.g., Bonryaku Demae).
Outline the steps involved in the procedure.
Write detailed instructions for each step, including images or diagrams.
Organize the information into a clear and user-friendly guide.

Career center

Learners who complete Learn the Authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Cultural Heritage Interpreter

A cultural heritage interpreter shares knowledge of traditions with visitors, and this course on the Japanese tea ceremony can be very helpful. The role involves presenting the historical and cultural significance of practices like Chado. This includes explaining the nuances of tea preparation, the use of specific utensils, and the underlying philosophy. This course provides a deep understanding of the tea ceremony, including the history, utensils, and detailed procedures, which is ideal for someone who wishes to authentically present this cultural art to others.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cultural Heritage Interpreter

Tea Sommelier

A tea sommelier develops expertise in the nuances of tea, and this course focused specifically on the Japanese tea ceremony can be of great use in this specialization. A tea sommelier often studies the cultural and preparation aspects of tea. The course includes detailed video instruction on the preparation of matcha, an essential element of the tea ceremony. The course goes into detail about the utensils and the process in the tea ceremony, which can inform the sommelier's understanding of the ritual surrounding tea.

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Cultural Exchange Program Coordinator

A cultural exchange program coordinator organizes and facilitates programs for people from different cultures, and this course on the Japanese tea ceremony can help in this role. This position involves presenting and explaining cultural practices. By completing this course, the coordinator will gain a deep knowledge of Chado, including its history, utensils, and detailed procedures. This will enable the coordinator to educate participants about the intricacies of the tea ceremony during a cultural exchange event.

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Wellness Instructor

A wellness instructor guides individuals in practices that enhance their mental and physical well-being, and this course focusing on the Japanese tea ceremony can complement such practices. The instructor may incorporate elements from the course into mindfulness and meditation programs. The course delves into the spiritual and mindful aspects of Chado, which can be valuable in leading wellness sessions. Learning the precise movements and the philosophy behind the tea ceremony will enable an instructor to guide students through meditative practices.

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Meditation Facilitator

A meditation facilitator leads individuals in contemplative practices, and this course on the Japanese tea ceremony may provide a unique method to teach mindful practices. This role involves guiding people in relaxation techniques. This course explores the mindful and spiritual dimensions of Chado. The course’s detailed video material, along with the text of the narration, may be helpful in creating meditative experiences based on the tea ceremony.

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Spiritual Guide

A spiritual guide offers guidance on personal growth and spiritual practices, and this course on the Japanese tea ceremony may be beneficial. Some spiritual guides use meditation and mindfulness from various traditions. This course explains how Chado is a path to spiritual discipline. The course will be useful for those looking to promote contemplative practices in a spiritual context, as they will gain insight into the mindful aspects of the tea ceremony.

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Museum curator

A museum curator is responsible for the care and interpretation of cultural artifacts, and understanding the Japanese tea ceremony can be highly valuable. Curators research and present exhibits on cultural practices such as Chado. This course may be helpful in learning about the history of the tradition, the significance of the tea ceremony's utensils, and the detailed steps involved in its performance. This knowledge will help in accurately depicting and interpreting the tea ceremony in a museum setting.

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Tour Guide

A tour guide provides information about cultural sites and practices, and this course on the Japanese tea ceremony can be useful in preparing to lead specialized tours focused on culture. A tour guide may present information on Japanese traditions to tourists. With a deep understanding of the history and process of Chado, as detailed in this course, a tour guide can lead interactive and educational tours. The course's focus on the details of performing the ceremony makes it useful for someone wishing to explain it to others.

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Fine Arts Teacher

A fine arts teacher educates students on various artistic and cultural practices, and this course on the Japanese tea ceremony may be very helpful for certain educators. This course may be particularly beneficial for a fine arts teacher who focuses on Asian art or traditions. Through this course, teachers gain a thorough understanding of Chado history, its utensils, and the steps to perform the tea ceremony. The in-depth knowledge of this course would enable a fine arts teacher to enhance their curriculum with a thorough look at Japanese art.

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Hospitality Specialist

A hospitality specialist ensures pleasant experiences for guests, and a deep knowledge of the Japanese tea ceremony can distinguish an individual within the field. The specialist may work in a Japanese-themed establishment or at events where Japanese culture is featured. The course provides a detailed understanding of the tea ceremony, including the practices for both host and guest. Hospitality specialists will be better equipped to provide a more authentic cultural experience to their guests.

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Lifestyle Blogger

A lifestyle blogger creates content about various aspects of living, and this course on Japanese tea ceremony can be a unique area of focus. A lifestyle blogger may write about the cultural and historical significance of the ceremony and how it relates to spirituality and mindfulness. The course offers a thorough history of Chado, explains the utensils and their uses, and shows the tea-making procedure. The details within this course can provide a blogger with rich content to share with their audience.

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Language Instructor

A language instructor teaches a foreign language and may also present cultural information, and this course in the Japanese tea ceremony can help a Japanese language instructor. This course is very useful in understanding the tea ceremony's historical and cultural background. The course provides an in-depth look at the specific utensils used in the tea ceremony, and it may be used to present Japanese culture to language students. For a language instructor, the course enhances the cultural immersion component of their curriculum.

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Historian

A historian researches and interprets the past, and this course on the Japanese tea ceremony may be very helpful for someone specializing in Japanese history. This course contains detailed information about the history of Chado. Historians may use this course to gain a deeper understanding of the development of the tea ceremony and how it reflects Japanese history. The course would give a historical understanding of the cultural significance and artistic elements of Chado.

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Event Planner

An event planner organizes and coordinates various gatherings, and learning the Japanese tea ceremony may be a niche skill that can lead to unusual opportunities. Some clients may request unique cultural experiences, like a tea ceremony. This course provides detailed training in the rituals of Chado, including the history, the meaning of the utensils, and the proper steps for performing the tea ceremony as both host and guest. This course may be useful to event planners looking to offer cultural events.

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Artisan

An artisan creates handcrafted items, and this course on the Japanese tea ceremony may provide inspiration and technical knowledge for those interested in creating tea ceremony items. Some artisans create traditional craftwork, including ceramics and bamboo utensils. This course presents in-depth information on the utensils used for Chado, including tea bowls, tea scoops, and tea whisks. The course's focus on these items, their use, and their care may be of great value.

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Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Learn the Authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony.

The Book of Tea

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Provides a foundational understanding of the philosophy and aesthetics behind the Japanese tea ceremony. It delves into the cultural context and spiritual significance of tea in Japanese society. Reading this book before the course will provide a valuable framework for understanding the deeper meaning of Chado. It is considered a classic text and is highly recommended for anyone interested in Japanese culture.

The Book of Tea

Paperback

Putting Knowledge to Work

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Offers a deeper exploration of the spiritual and philosophical aspects of Chado. Written by a grand master of the Urasenke school, it provides insights into the practice of tea as a way of life. This book is valuable as additional reading to expand on the course's teachings. It offers a more personal and reflective perspective on the art of tea.

Putting Knowledge to Work

Paperback

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Putting Knowledge to Work

Kindle Edition

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Learn the Authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Authentic japanese tea ceremony basics

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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