Tea Master Allan Halyk hosted a chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony) on Saturday at Chado - The Way of Tea. Allan began with an explanation of his background and study of tea (including studying under a tea sensei in Melbourne to gain his tea mastership, under the Urasenke tea school (originating from Sen no Rikyu in the 15th Century). Allan then performed chanoyu (usucha - thin tea) for one of the dozen guests present.
The matcha served was absolutely wonderful - brilliant jade colour, thick layer of foam and an intense, grassy, yet perfectly balanced sweetness. Japanese snacks were also served, including sushi and mochi (red-bean-filled rice cake with black sesame seed coating).
Watching Allan perform chanoyu was among other things, incredibly relaxing. His composure, eloquence and serenity made it a most enjoyable occasion.
1 comment:
Nice to hear that watching the tea service in the Way of Tea can be just as relaxing as making your own tea. In this way the Japanese (and Chinese too) really know how to serve tea. --Spirituality of Tea
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