Chapter 1: The Blind Phoenix

Japanese tea ceremony (known as sadō/chadō or cha-no-yu -- "The Way of Tea") is a Japanese cultural activity involving the choreographic ceremonial preparation and presentation of matcha, a powdered green tea, the art of which is called (o)Temae. Serving tea is an not only an art form but also a spiritual discipline. Preparing tea in this ceremony means pouring all of one's attention into the predefined movements. The whole process is not about drinking tea, but is about the aesthetics and preparing a bowl of tea from one's heart. The host of the ceremony always considers the guests with every movement and gesture. Even the placement of the tea utensils is considered from the guests view point (angle), especially the main guests called the Shokyaku.

The objective of the Japanese tea ceremony is to create a relaxed communication between the host and his guests. It is based in part on the etiquette of serving tea ((o)Temae), but it also includes the intimate connections with architecture, landscape gardening, unique tea utensils, paintings, flower arrangement, ceramics, calligraphy, Zen Buddhism, and all the other elements that coexist in a harmonious relationship with the ceremony. Its ultimate aim is the attainment of deep spiritual satisfaction through the drinking of tea and through silent contemplation. On a different level, the Japanese tea ceremony is an entertainment where the guest is invited to drink tea in a pleasant and relaxing room. Where the bonds of respect and friendship between the host and guest are strengthened during the ceremony as the host them self makes and serves the tea.