Cupertino Cherry Blossom Festival

It is refreshing to write about a non-political and lighthearted review of a local cultural annual event. Yes, I'm "taking a well deserved break from politics",  my boyfriend Paul chimed. To give you some context, when I do watch television or go online,  I primarily watch news and the current political climate. 

The balmy weather was the perfect backdrop for the two day 36th annual Japanese spring celebration known as Cherry Blossom Festival last weekend.  I've seen the banner line the streets of Cupertino last month but decided to attend by invitation of my friend Miyuki who was performing the traditional tea ceremony. It was the perfect lazy Sunday to visit Miyuki and watch her craft at the Quinlan Community Center.  I also had a chance to see my other ex-coworker, Maki, who also participated in the tea ceremony.

I've seen tea ceremonies on television but never live so I was really excited to see Miyuki in action. A woman was narrating the entire ceremony step by step but it was very difficult to hear her at times since her microphone audio was very low.  So I'll try my best of little information I was able to decipher to explain the demonstration.  

Green tea was first cultivated by the Chinese and later on Buddhist monks adopted the tea. It was first used for medicinal purposes.  It was not until the 9th century, that Japan started growing and drinking tea which was reserved for upper class society. 

One by one, three guests entered the mat covered stage in the main room of the Center. They knelt before the hanging scroll which served as a centerpiece.  Four words written in beautiful calligraphy reflect the season and occasion.  I think integrity was one.  But please do correct me if I'm wrong! 

   

                                          

This was followed by what looks like arranged seating on another mat, as they sat next to each other kneeling down facing the area where the kettle and utensils were perfectly displayed. 

Miyuki and her assistant entered the room after the guests sat. What transpired next was a series of carefully choreographed movements and placements of what to serve, how to serve and when. The whole process was very serene, each movement appeared to have a symbolic purpose.  Paul mused - "I would of just microwaved the water", as he watched Miyuki delicately transfer water from the kettle using a delicate looking long wooden ladle. To be fair, Paul has served the best darn Chamomile tea, the hot water powered by his industrial strength gas stove. 

What also caught my eye was that every step from wiping the tea bowl to placing the ladle was fluid, graceful and gentle.  No banging of the pots and utensils here. The dynamics and gestures of the host and guest was very respectful and polite. 

The ceremony is more than just drinking tea.  Each movement, each utensil and the interaction between the host and guest is considered.  There's almost a zen like feeling from just observing how all the parties act and react in harmony.  I learned a lot about the tea ceremony and ended up reading articles about it when I got home in order to get a full understanding and appreciation of the art.

Paul said he was glad that he attended as well.  A history buff, he walked away fascinated and educated about the well respected craft, an integral part of Japanese culture that was unbeknownst to him prior to Sunday's visit. 

Miyuki, Maki and the rest of performers did a great job! It was obvious each and every person took their role seriously with precision focus and grace.  I now have a heightened appreciation.  Which is why the next time I visit Japan - participation in a tea ceremony will definitely be on my wish list of things...to experience and behold.