The "Way of Tea" - Chado
Chado is concerned with activities that are a part of everyday life, yet to master these requires great cultivation. In this sense, this tradition is well described as the Art of Living.
Having been nurtured on Japanese soil, it represents the quintessence of Japanese aesthetics and culture. Over and beyond this, people far and wide have discovered that life is beautified by this Way — by the spirit that guides its practice, as well as by the objects which express that spirit and are an integral part of its practice.
About Urasenke in Singapore
Urasenke (裏千家) is one of the main schools of Chado or better known as Japanese tea ceremony, based in Kyoto, Japan, that has its tradition tracing back to the 17th century.
Urasenke has long been active in promoting worldwide understanding and appreciation of Chado, so that the spirit of this 'Way,' symbolising by its ideals of Harmony, Respect, Purity, and Tranquility, can help bring true peace to all people.
The Chado Urasenke Tankokai Singapore Association (茶道裏千家淡交会シンガポール協会) has been promoting tea ceremony in Singapore since its establishment in 1991.
In 2009 and 2016, the Association presented tea to the then President Nathan and President Tony Tan, respectively, during the visits of Grand Master Hounsai Sen Genshitsu to Singapore. Thus, for more than 30 years, the Association has put in serious efforts to promote cultural exchange and friendship between Japan and Singapore through the tea ceremony.
In 2022, we were presented the Japanese Foreign Minster’s Commendation for the contribution in promoting Japanese culture in Singapore, through which we have enhanced friendly relations between Japan and Singapore.