Embedded Files
At the end of July, I had the unique opportunity to join a tea ceremony hosted by Otonami, a provider of diverse Japanese cultural experiences. The setting was an authentic tea house in Minami Aoyama, known as Sokkon. The ambiance was serene, with the soothing notes of jazz piano music filling the air.
First, a host served hot water with Japanese basil in a small teacup to appreciate the flavor, which changes according to the season. That made us feel at ease. Then the main sweet (Hasu mochi - sweet red bean paste covered with sticky rice) was served.
Then we moved to a tea room to enjoy Matcha tea. Two candles were lit, casting a dark ambiance in the small space. A host, dressed in a kimono, entered the room and graciously prepared tea for us. After serving the tea, she explained the tea cups, the name of the tea, and a hanging scroll.
After appreciating Matcha tea, we returned to the room to enjoy our kaiseki lunch. Ichiju-sansai is a traditional Japanese meal consisting of rice, one soup, and three side dishes. The menu changes according to the season. We learned how to open and place the lid of the soup cup and where to put chopsticks, which signal the server when the meal is finished. Sake was served during the meal. Finally, a host served the burnt rice in hot water. In Japan, we eat burnt rice. The concept of taking good care of scorched rice originated from Zen Buddhism. It was tasty, and we are satisfied with the simple yet delicious and healthy cuisine.
Ultimately, the host explained the words written on the hanging scroll. He described the menu and the manner of the tea ceremony. He said, “Please enjoy the tea ceremony, like a party.” Yes. We certainly enjoyed the occasion because we learned about manners and enjoyed the meal in an authentic, yet casual atmosphere.
Menu:
Rice & Miso soup
Hassun – Seafood and vegetables on a tray
Japanese pickles
Appetizer dishes – flatfish, seaweed, basil,
Sake
Shimmered dish - A slice of sweetfish, white gourd, okura, ginger
Grilled dish – salt-grilled pike fish, Japanese ginger
Sorched rice and Japanese pickles (Cucumber & radish)
Page updated
Report abuse