Welcome to the world of Japanese tea
Although all teas are made from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, Japanese tea is unique. This is because of its taste range, cultural significance, as well as how it is cultivated and processed.
It travelled from China as early as 805 AD and gradually took root in Japan over the past centuries. It was first adopted by zen monks to support their meditation sessions and later by the ruling samurai as a pleasurable pastime.
As it evolved into a quintessentially Japanese art in its own right, it represents one of the three refined art forms as chadō or sadō (the way of tea), alongside kadō (flower arrangement) and kodō (incense appreciation).
Its cultural importance and teachings are still very relevant in today's world, if not more than ever. Japanese tea ceremony is deeply rooted in Japanese Zen Buddhism and Shinto traditions, and gives guidance in navigating the world and relationships to others, as well as being in touch with one’s own spirit.
