by guest contributor Tamara Buchwald
Photo credit: Courtesy of Marley Taylor, Embassy of Japan
On a warm, lively evening in March, the Japanese Ambassador’s residence played host to
a special event, marking the 15th anniversary of the Omotesenke Domonkai Eastern Region. The occasion, steeped in tradition and culture, was a wonderful celebration of the continued growth and significance of the Omotesenke school of tea ceremony in the region.
Ambassador Markarova (center)
The gathering was attended by a distinguished group of tea practitioners, diplomats including Oksana Markarova, the Ambassador from Ukraine, and cultural enthusiasts, all coming together to reflect on the journey of the Domonkai and to celebrate its invaluable contributions to the appreciation and practice of Japanese tea culture. The 15th-anniversary celebration was a reflection of this enduring commitment to the preservation and promotion of Japanese cultural heritage. The event, designed with the utmost care and attention to detail, was a blend of elegant ceremony and joyful camaraderie.
The Omotesenke school, founded in the 16th century, is one of the most renowned
schools of the Japanese tea ceremony. Its roots trace back to the tea master Sen no Rikyū, who is
considered the father of the Japanese tea ceremony. As part of the Sen family, the Omotesenke
school emphasizes the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility — values that are
expressed through the meditative practice of tea-making. The Omotesenke Domonkai, a
dedicated organization for the practice of tea ceremony, has worked tirelessly to preserve and
promote these cultural traditions in various parts of the world. The Eastern Region, which
encompasses the eastern United States, has been a significant hub for spreading the beauty and
philosophy of the Omotesenke school over the past 15 years.
Ambassador Yamada
Ambassador Yamada delivered a heartfelt address, highlighting the importance of the tea
ceremony in fostering mutual understanding between Japan and the world. In his speech, the
Ambassador noted that the tea ceremony, with its emphasis on mindfulness and connection to
nature, continues to serve as a bridge between cultures, providing a platform for meaningful
dialogue and respect. “The tea ceremony,” the Ambassador said, “is a profound practice that
transcends geographical boundaries. It is a universal language that brings people together
through the shared experience of a simple cup of tea.”
As part of the anniversary celebrations, a traditional tea ceremony was conducted by Grandmaster Iemoto Yuyusai Sen Soss, a renowned tea master 15 th generation of the Sen family. The ceremony, held in a beautifully arranged tatami room within the residence, was a living embodiment of the values of Omotesenke. Attendees were invited to observe and participate in the intricate rituals of tea preparation and service. The serene atmosphere allowed everyone present to immerse themselves in the moment, reflecting on the philosophy of wabi-sabi, the appreciation of imperfection and transience, which is central to the tea ceremony. The guests were also treated to a of Japanese sweet (wagashi), carefully selected to complement the tea, along with an array of seasonal flowers that underscored the importance of nature in the practice of tea.
The event not only honored the Omotesenke Domonkai’s 15-year journey but also
brought together a diverse community of people who share a love for Japanese culture in an
intimate dinner prepared by the chefs Mr. Kiyotaka Yoshihashi and Mr Yuuki Takami who
traveled from Japan. The menu was incredible, traditionally Japanese that included sea breamsoup, assorted sashimi, and wagyu steak.
In addition to the dinner, the guests were treated to a musical program by the violinists Stella Chen and Luosha Fang. Guests at the anniversary celebration were able to exchange stories, experiences, and insights about their tea journey, creating new bonds of friendship and respect. It was a beautiful reminder of how cultural practices can unite people from different walks of life, transcending language barriers and fostering understanding.
As the 15th anniversary celebrations came to a close, there was a sense of optimism about
the future of the Omotesenke Domonkai in the Eastern Region. The evening’s festivities not only
marked a significant milestone but also underscored the ongoing commitment to passing on the
timeless traditions of the tea ceremony to future generations. Plans for expanding the reach of the
Domonkai and furthering the practice of Omotesenke tea ceremony in the region were discussed,
ensuring that this profound cultural art form will continue to thrive for years to come.
The Omotesenke Domonkai Eastern Region has come a long way in its 15 years, and this
anniversary celebration was an opportunity to reflect on its growth and achievements, celebrating
the deep cultural roots of the tea ceremony and its ability to create connections between people.
It served as a reminder that, through the practice of tea, we can cultivate harmony, peace, and
understanding
