Experiencing Culture through Tea

Before even entering the building, could I had to take a moment to admire the architecture of the exterior. If the exterior looked so traditional, I could not wait to see the interior.

 

I have to say the tea ceremony met my expectations to an extent. Firstly, walking into that room was beautiful, with the precision of the garden and the serene simplicity of the walls surrounding us.

 

I immediately thought of myself being Bolin visiting Noria and Master Kaitio for the tea ceremony. The tea master, which I was surprised was a woman, was so graceful and delicate with each hand movement as she poured the water into the bowl. Even as she mixed the water with the matcha powder, it was as if she was performing an artistic ritual. I could almost feel the water flow within her as she picked up each utensil and placed it in front of her. However, I was a bit disappointed that we only got one sweet. Although, it was very light and rice-flavored, I was hoping for more of a variety of sweets. When I was first served the tea, I politely bowed as I should, and smelled it. It was definitely a distinguishing smell.

After I turned the bowl clockwise twice, I took my first sip of the opaque green beverage. It was very bitter and I strived for another sweet element to cleanse my tongue, maybe another one of those sweets served to us in the beginning. Nevertheless, I really admired how intellectual, patient, and funny our host was. He was so willingly to share the history of the tea ceremony in such a engaging manner. I am really glad I went to the Tea Ceremony and experienced such a historical and traditional culture that envelops in the history of tea.