kuroraku

Chado Urasenke Tankokai LA Association

shacha
 

The Way of Tea

Chadō, or “Japanese tea ceremony” has a more accurate translation as the “Way of Tea.” Based upon the simple acts of preparing and presenting tea with grace and respect while being received with appreciation and gratitude; a bowl of tea satisfies both physical and spiritual thirst. Descending from 16th century tea master Sen no Rikyu, the foundation is built upon daily Japanese culture that values harmony in the setting of hospitality and accommodation.
The underlying principles set forth by Rikyu are “Wa, Kei, Sei, Jaku.”

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WA

Harmony; To live in harmony with each other, with nature, and with our surroundings.

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KEI

Respect; To respect each other and recognize our mutual dependence upon one another.

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SEI

Purity; To strive for purity in both the outer, physical sense and the inner, spiritual sense.

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JAKU

Tranquility; Having a mind that is always serene, while finding calmness and steadiness.

Our History

We were originally founded in 1951 following the Peace Treaty of San Francisco as Urasenke Los Angeles Chapter. In 1986, the Teachers’ Association and Youth Group were formed. And in 1998, the Urasenke Headquarters in Kyoto, Japan gave us our current title, Chadō Urasenke Tankōkai Los Angeles Association. As a government authorized non-profit organization, we are registered in the state of California as Chadō Urasenke Tea Society of Southern California.

Our Mission

The association’s mission is to engage in research concerning Chadō culture, introduce Chadō to the local and global community, and contribute to inter-cultural exchange and world peace. It promotes communication, exchange, and training among Chadō practitioners and those interested in Chadō.

Membership

Anyone wishing to promote the understanding of Chadō can become a member. Urasenke Tankōkai Los Angeles Association is a non-profit organization. Contributions are tax deductible as permitted by law. Please sign up as a member if you wish to study Urasenke Chadō. Trial classes are available upon request. If interested, feel free to contact us from the form below.

Friends

$25

Annual
    • Friends of Urasenke Tankokai Los Angeles Association

Students

$25

Annual
    • Full time students


General

$35

Annual
    • For General Public


Chamei

$45

Annual
    • For Chamei Holders


Instructors

$55+

Annual
    • Fee in accordance with number of students in classes
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Locations

There are currently 18 tea houses throughout Southern California that teach Urasenke Chadō.
For a complete list of all registered teachers, Click Here, or click the name in map below for more information.

FAQ

The following are answers to common questions we receive.
For any other questions, feel free to contact us through the form below.

• Fukusa (Silk Cloth)
• Kobukusa (Classic-patterned Silk Cloth)
• Kaishi Paper (Paper used for sweets)
• Kashi-yoji (Utensil for sweets)
• Sensu (Folding Fan)
• Sukiya Bukuro (Pouch)
*Any of these materials are available to borrow or purchase at class.

Anyone is welcome to see and participate in a class before becoming a member. Feel free to contact us in advance to make an appointment.
Generally, a kimono is appropriate for both men and women. If you do not own one, business casual attire with clean white socks is preferred. Jeans are discouraged due to possible damage to the tatami surface. Women may wear a skirt or dress as long as the length covers the knees when sitting. Please avoid wearing watches, jewelry, strong perfume, or cologne.
A lesson typically lasts 1 to 2 hours but are flexible. Since classes are held all year round, and there is no set schedules, you can start whenever you like. The teacher will cater the lesson according to your experience.
During class, the teacher gives a lesson to one student while other students participate as guests or watch and learn. There are about 20 teachers in Southern California that teach Urasenke Chadō. View the list of teachers here.
There is no age restriction. Chadō requires extended length of sitting quietly as well as comprehension of delicate tea procedures and practice. If the child is disciplined to calmly sit through the entire class they should be ready. A student fee is available.

Contact Us