CHANOYU (TEA CEREMONY) classes
This is a four-part fall series on the subject of the Japanese Way of Tea by licensed teachers of the Urasenke San Diego Association. Each workshop will touch upon different experiences and parts of Chado. It is not required to take all three classes, but it is encouraged for the individual to receive a fuller understanding of Tea.
Dates: September 28th, October 4th, 11th, 26th
Time: 10:00AM-12:00PM
Location: Education Center / Gallery (In person)
Ticket: JFGM Member $40 per class | Non-member $60 per class
**Registration required. Admission included.
Each classes’ descriptions below.
A Taste of Japan – Wagashi and Matcha Making
By Minako Takeda and Shachu
October 11th at 10am - 12pm | at Gallery
The Japanese tea ceremony experience class:
Join us for a fun and relaxing two-hour hands-on workshop where you can experience the beautiful art of wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) and learn how to prepare matcha in the traditional style. In the first part of the workshop, you will create seasonal, authentic Japanese tea sweets. After tasting your creations, you'll be guided through the peaceful ritual of preparing a bowl of matcha using unique tools. Matcha has become popular worldwide. This is a fun opportunity to connect in the profound world of the Chanoyu. No prior experience is needed. We will walk you through each step. Everyone is welcome: individuals, couples, families, and curious beginners alike!
Instructor bio:
Minako Takeda is certified as a Japanese tea ceremony instructor of the Urasenke San Diego association. She has learning the tea ceremony for 26 years in Tokyo and San Diego and has been teaching at her home for 10 years, including Chaji which is the whole tea ceremony.
Demystifying the Japanese Tea Ceremony
By Florizel Yasuhara (Soryu 宗留)
October 26th at 12pm - 2pm | at education center
This class will bring a better understanding on the esoteric subject of Chado, The Japanese Way of Tea. Learn how this centuries-old ritual combines the art of preparing and serving matcha tea with mindfulness that fosters mental clarity, inner peace and tranquility. Participants will engage with the beautiful spaces at the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum and partake in a traditional tea sweet and bowl of tea.
Instructor bio:
Florizel has been studying Chado, the Japanese Way of Tea, ongoing now for 25 years. She is a San Diego native, but was first introduced to Tea during her college years in Northern California. Shortly after graduating, she received a one-year scholarship for intensive and immersive study of Chado in Kyoto, Japan, under the instruction of the Urasenke Grand Tea Master. She also received an Associate’s Degree in Japanese. Since returning from Kyoto, Florizel has been sharing her knowledge of Chado at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park and in private lessons at her home. Her mission is to carry on the Grandmaster’s motto of Peacefulness Through a Bowl of Tea, which today is needed more than ever.
