The 7th Kobori Enshu Ryu Koho-kai Tea Ceremony at Sadou Kaikan on April 19th, 2026

In this beautiful season of double cherry blossoms and lush green leaves, I visited the Koho-kai Tea Ceremony at Sadou Kaikan. The first session began at 9:30.

The thick tea ceremony was held at the Ema-seki, and the thin tea ceremony at Meimeiken (standing bow style). The thick tea ceremony used a hanging kettle. The tea preparation involved a inkstone screen—a method practiced only during the season when the hearth is in use. I could sense the lingering presence of the hearth.

The refreshments were provided by “Yamazato Japanese Cuisine” (Tokyo), and enjoyed the bamboo shoot rice.

As I stepped out of the gate of the Sadou Kaikan, I was greeted by wisteria in full bloom. Feeling the arrival of early summer, I set off on my way home.