With the magic of the cherry blossom season suddenly upon us, what better way to learn more about traditional Japanese culture that to experience the Japanese tea ceremony, or Way of Tea.
The Maple Ridge Art Gallery has teamed up with Vancouver’s Nikkei Cultural Centre to bring a trained volunteer to host the ceremony April 21.
In addition to the formal preparation of tea for such an occasion, the host will demonstrate the minutely detailed presentation that accompanies the offering of ‘matcha’ tea, a thick green tea comprised of finely ground leaves. Special utensils are used according to the rules of the ceremony, traditional training for which can take up to 10 years.
The Way of Tea has long been associated with the origins of Zen Buddhism. While green tea was used for centuries for medicinal purposes, it was not until the 12th century that a famous Zen priest began introduced the notion of using tea for religious purposes. Even today, this essentially secular cultural ritual is always done in an atmosphere of peace, sharing and goodwill. Set within the serene context of Keith and Celia Rice-Jones exhibition of pottery and sculpture, the event promises to be a rich cultural experience in an atmosphere of calm and well being.
The event also coincides with the seventh annual Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the return of spring to the city and the blossoming of Vancouver’s 55 different varieties of cherry trees from April 4 to 30.
Inspired by the age old Sakura festivals of Japan, the festival uplifts spirits in the city, while the ephemeral nature of the blossoms remind us all to take time now to celebrate life. For events, visit vcbf.ca.
