Calendar of Events
Japanese Tea Ceremony
Japan House
2000 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61801
(217) 244-9934
Category
Hours
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Chado, or the Way of Tea, is one of the most ancient and revered arts of Japan, and is at the very heart of Japan House. Come to a traditional Japanese tea ceremony to learn about Japan House on the campus of the University of Illinois, and the history of this 500 year old art form.
NOTE: At this time, space is limited to 15 guests. Reservations are required, no walk-in's will be permitted. Masks still need to be worn for the duration of the event, minus the few moments of enjoying your sweet and tea, but we are optimistic you will enjoy this unique, tranquil experience much as we always have.
After a brief tour that includes history of the facility and art form, watch as the host carefully and thoughtfully prepares each piece of equipment so you can thoroughly enjoy a bowl of matcha tea and seasonal wagashi, a traditional Japanese sweet.
Tea ceremonies will feature a special handmade wagashi, using recipes from our cookbook "The Art of Wagashi: Recipes for Japanese Sweets that Delight the Palate and the Eyes" written by Japan House Prof Emeritus Kimiko Gunji. The cookbook will be featured, and available for purchase.
Experience a moment of peace.
You will be asked to remove your shoes (or use shoe covers) when you enter, and to wear white socks (we have some to lend you if you forget). We also ask that legs be covered as is traditional in Japan. You will be kneeling or sitting on the tatami mats, but if that is a problem we can easily pull a chair up to the tea room for you, and you will still be at the same height as the other participants.