Enchantment of Tradition: Japanese Tea Ceremony at Duke Kunshan University
In an era where the blend of cultures continues to enrich educational experiences, the recent Japanese Tea Ceremony held at Duke Kunshan University’s Tea House became a vivid tapestry of tradition and learning. The event on November 21, 2025, orchestrated under the China-Japan Post-1945 series, offered an immersive dive into the serene world of Chadō, the Japanese Way of Tea.
A Gateway to Cultural Elegance
As students and faculty members gathered in the serene ambiance of the Tea House, the air began to transform with anticipation and excitement. The event unfolded under the expert guidance of a seasoned tea ceremony specialist from Shanghai, invited by Prof. Cong Li. According to Sites@Duke Express, the master meticulously elucidated the layers of etiquette, philosophy, and the veneration embedded within the art of tea.
Delicate Protocols and Utensils
Participants embarked on their journey with a masterclass in fundamental protocols governing host-guest interactions. The ceremonial discourse included understanding the elegance of utilizing kaishi as an artful plate for sweets and discovering the array of tea utensils designed for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
Learning Through Participation
The event’s crescendo saw participants actively engaging in the preparation of tea, utilizing the delicate chasen and learning the artful turning of the tea bowl—an experience described by attendees as both warming and inclusive. Here, tradition danced with modern enthusiasm, painting a picture of cultural harmony.
Reflection on an enriching experience
Through this workshop, participants not only savored freshly whisked tea but also garnered a comprehensive understanding of Japan’s esteemed tea culture. The occasion successfully wove a seamless tapestry of cultural enlightenment, crafting an unforgettable narrative of sensory and intellectual pleasure.
The Japanese Tea Ceremony at Duke Kunshan University set a timeless tone where tradition gallantly meets contemporary curiosity, breathing life into Chadō for all to savor.
