On April 23, 2026, Urasenke Tankokai Los Angeles Association demonstrated the Misonodana procedure for 33 students of Occidental College’s Nikkei Student Union.

Students observed the host, teishu, Soshin Usui, with the assistance of Soki Umbriaco.  Sori Hirose was the first guest or shokyaku and guided the student who participated as the second guest. Soho Duffey provided the history of Chado and narration of the procedure.  

A shikishi of Wa Kei Sei Jaku, Harmony, Respect, Purity, Tranquility, by Yamashita roshi hung in the tokonoma and was a talking point of the principles of Chado.  Seasonal flowers were displayed in a Hagi vase. In keeping with the beautiful spring weather, a main bowl, Chokudai「Oka」, by Keiun was decorated with auspicious clouds over a flowered mountain.   An unkin makie or sakura and maple leaf motif adorned a red colored lacquered, tame nuri chu natsume, or tea caddy. The chashaku, tea scoop, was lacquered with the gingko icho motif, an emblem of the school of Urasenke.  The selected gomei or poetic name was Sho Shin, Beginner’s Mind.  It was appropriate for the students to have an attitude of openness, humility, eagerness to learn with a sincerity of a beginner.

The students were treated to a sweet in the shape of a peach made by one of our members, Soshin Kodama.  Called Michitosegusa, it is a symbol of longevity and also protection against evil.  It was wonderful to see the students enjoy the sweets and matcha and gain an appreciation of the beauty of Chado.