As the semester nears the end, and I am starting to learn that finals are difficult worldwide, my traditional Japanese tea ceremony (sado) class had our semester field trip! We went to a local Buddhist temple to have a short meditation experience and participate in a semi-formal tea ceremony (oyose chakai). In this class, we have studied the history and arts of tea ceremony and how to serve, make, and enjoy Japanese tea (matcha) and sweets (wagashi).
After a few months of studying, we were finally ready to use the skills we learned in a real-world situation. We sacrificed our Sunday to get on a bus and go to a temple. It was breathtaking. Despite being the beginning of winter (it snowed the very next day!), the trees were still full of leaves and changing colors. The building had so many details and thoughts put into it. Small elements, such as the walkways and steps outside all being made out of stone, show the dedication and thoughtfulness that is put into Japanese tea ceremonies. We are taught to enjoy beauty in the simple, imperfect things. To appreciate nature and take time to be calm.
Once inside the temple, we were greeted by the head priest who introduced us to a few basic principles of Zen meditation. After the meditation, we entered the tea room, where those at the temple had thoughtfully planned an excellent tea ceremony for us. All of the decor in the room was selected just for this occasion, including the bowls (chawan) that we drink the tea out of.
Initially, I was nervous going into the tea ceremony. I knew that I had only been studying traditional Japanese tea ceremonies for a few months and now had to perform everything I learned in a live setting. Yet, I remembered why I was there, and here in Japan. I want to experience different cultures and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. I want to meet people from diverse backgrounds and share about our lives. So, I took that initiative; rather than approaching the tea ceremony as a class practical exam, I saw it as a cultural exchange. While I did not have direct conversations with the people serving me tea, as it is not culturally appropriate since it is supposed to be a quiet reflection time, I was able to have non-verbal communication with them. I could express my gratitude for the effort they went through preparing for this day and show how much it meant to me to try my best to do all of the correct movements. While I am here as a student, and my studies are important, it is also important to truly take in the moments and what I am experiencing.
I will not have another chance to return to this temple, and even if I can see the temple again I will not have the opportunity to attend their traditional tea ceremony. I also would not have had this opportunity if I had not left the US and spent a semester living across the globe. As I am working on finals and thinking about returning home, I intend to prioritize experiencing everything I can in the little time I have left.
Claudia Gay
Fall 2024
GW Exchange - Akita International University
Columbian College of Arts and Science
Political Science Major