Project for Japanese Cultural Workshops

Misako will structure the activity into several stages to engage participants:

• Welcome and Introduction: Misako will say: "Welcome to this discovery activity on the Japanese tea ceremony. My name is Misako, and I am delighted to share with you one of Japan's most beautiful cultural practices."
• History: Tea was introduced to Japan in the 8th century from China. Sen no Rikyū refined it in the 16th century. A famous anecdote illustrates his philosophy: he cut all the flowers in his garden of volubilis (morning glories) to leave only one perfect flower displayed in the tokonoma, forcing the guest to focus on the present moment.
• Principles: Misako will explain: "The principles are harmony (wa), respect (kei), purity (sei), and serenity (jaku)."
• Tea Room: "The chashitsu is a simple space with tatami mats and a tokonoma."
• Utensils: Presentation of the chawan (bowl), chashaku (spoon), and chasen (whisk).
• Demonstration: Misako will prepare and serve the matcha, explaining each gesture.
• Tasting: "Matcha has a fresh, grassy aroma combined with a deep bitterness, very different from classic green tea."
• Q&A: An interactive session to explore deeper.