Local experts in Japanese tea ceremony and flower arrangement recently visited iCLA to teach workshops in traditional Japanese culture. Tea ceremony and flower arrangement, two of three classical arts of Japanese refinement, are deeply rooted in Japan’s history. The workshops were part of iCLA’s iEXPerience Program, which offers various activities and excursions aimed at promoting a deeper understanding of Japanese and Yamanashi culture.
The program began with a session on Sado, Japanese Tea Ceremony, held in iCLA’s tea room. Students learned basic Tea Ceremony etiquette such as how to sit, stand, and bow. They were also introduced to the practice of appreciating seasonal Japanese confectionary, or wagashi, as part of the ceremony. The confectionary for this occasion was in the shape of a Chrysanthemum, Japan’s national flower and a symbol of autumn. Then, students practiced preparing and serving the matcha tea, as well as how to receive and drink it, taking turns in the roles of host and guest. After the ceremony, participants had the opportunity to ask the instructors questions, allowing them to deepen their understanding of this traditional art.
I learned that Japanese people value the tea ceremony a lot, which resonates with my culture back in Morocco as we do the same. – iCLA Student, Hind
The second part of the program was dedicated to Kado, or Japanese Flower Arrangement. The workshop began with an overview of the historical and cultural significance of Kado. The instructor introduced students to the “Sansaiike” arrangement, a basic arrangement that symbolizes heaven, earth, and humans. Seasonal materials, such as lilies and Japanese umbrella pine, were used to emphasize autumn. As students worked on their arrangements, they received guidance and personalized feedback from the instructor.
iCLA’s iEXPerience Program offers unique opportunities to learn from professors outside of courses and engage with the local community. In past programs, students have enjoyed grape-picking in Yamanashi vineyards, practicing the Wadaiko with a renowned local high school Taiko club, touring historical temples in the region, and more.
Links
iEXPerience: Immersing in Viniculture, a Hands-On Experience at Yamanashi Winery
iEXPerience: Wadaiko with Nirasaki Technical High School
iEXPerience: Local Temple Tour and Haiku Workshop
iEXPerience: Visit to Lumiere Winery to Learn about Yamanashi Wine Industry
iEXPerience: iCLA Students Visit Erinji Temple
iEXPerience: Erinji Temple for Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy Experience