Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony!

Senkei Onishi, tea mistress, introduces you to the Japanese tradition of tea in Bordeaux

Senkei Onishi, a tea master graduate of the Dai Nihon Chadou Gakkai school, officiating at the tea house Un Air de Thé in Bordeaux. Photograph: Alexandre Mariottini

What is this traditional tea ceremony in Japan?

The tea ceremony, also called Chanoyu, is a codified art in Japan, organized into different stages to prepare Matcha tea and using specific accessories such as the whisk (Chasen). This traditional ritual, influenced by Zen Buddhism, is taught in various tea schools in Japan. Becoming a tea master requires many years of study. There are many tea schools in Japan.

Photographs: Alexandre Mariottini

Who is the tea master at this tea ceremony in Bordeaux?

Born in Tokyo, Keiko Onishi has been passionate about traditional Japanese arts such as flower arranging (Ikebana), kimono art, calligraphy, Japanese cuisine, pottery, and of course, the tea ceremony since childhood. A graduate of the "Dai Nihon Chadou Gakkai" (大日本茶道学会) school of tea ceremony since 2002, Senkei Onishi has been practicing this ancestral art for over 25 years, and she will share with you all the subtleties of tea.

How does this tea ceremony take place?

Each ceremony lasts approximately one hour and is limited to a maximum of two or four participants. During a unique experience that will transport you to the heart of Japanese culture, you will learn to respect each step of this artistic and philosophical ritual. This moment includes a welcome by the tea mistress, a tasting of a Japanese pastry, and the tea preparation ceremony according to the rules of the art.

What are the recommendations for making the most of the moment?

It is recommended to bring a pair of socks as you must take them off to sit on the tatami mats and to wear loose clothing to sit comfortably on your knees or cross-legged. Children over 10 years old can participate in the tea ceremony but only accompanied by a loved one.

Photographs: Alexandre Mariottini

How do I book a tea ceremony at Un Air de Thé in Bordeaux?

Tea mistress Senkei Onishi officiates a tea ceremony several times a month at the tea house. You can book your ceremony online or directly at the boutique located at 33 rue Buhan in Bordeaux.

The fee to participate in this ceremony is 55 euros per person.

The tea house reserves the right to cancel the reservation if there are fewer than two participants.