| The influence of chado on the arts and culture of Japan is far-reaching, and studying this cultural activity with a history of over four hundred years provides an excellent introduction to arts such as calligraphy, architecture, and Japanese cuisine, and crafts such as ceramics, lacquerware, and woodwork. Chado is considered a comprehensive synthesis of the traditional Japanese lifestyle, and its philosophy and aesthetics embody such representative ideals as simplicity, reticence, suggestion, and subtlety. |
| The former Grand Master of the Urasenke Tradition, Sen Genshitsu, has encouraged the study of chado amongst non-Japanese people by creating the International Chado Institute (estab. April, 1980) which provides instruction in English. He has opened the facilities of the Headquarters, so that students can study in an authentic environment and experience many aspects of chado. |
| The international teaching staff, providing instruction in English, Japanese, and Chinese, guides the students in the procedures of how to be a host and guest at a formal tea gathering. They arrange field trips once or twice a semester to enhance and enrich the tearoom practice. Past trips have included, for example, going to Uji to view the tea-picking, going to a potter's studio to make Raku-style teabowls, and going to a sweetshop to learn how to make Japanese tea sweets. Generally once a semester, the students attend a full-length formal tea gathering which features food, sake, and two types of matcha. Holding such a gathering is the goal or purpose of their tearoom practice. |
| The present grand master, Sen Soshitsu XVI, in continuing his support of his father's international activities, believes that the study of chado will help the ICI students not only to broaden their understanding of Japanese culture, but also to enrich their daily lives by providing values that are very much needed in today's world. These include consideration and thoughtfulness for others; awareness of nature and the seasons; and the cultivation of discretion, gracefulness, and spirit of hospitality. |
