The Japanese tea ritual is not a ceremonial at all, if that utterance is taken to denote an static program of proceedings and services. Rather, it is a subtly variable way to commune with nature and with friends. Deeply rooted in Chinese Zen philosophy, it is a way to remove oneself from the mundane affairs of day-to-day living and to achieve, if only for a time, serenity and inner peace.
On the surface, chanoyu – the Japanese term for what is known in the West as the tea ceremony – is a gathering of friends for a simple meal. Every element of chanoyu, no matter how tiny, is chosen to build on and reflect the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.