How is the host-guest etiquette demonstrated in the Japanese tea ceremony?

Guest-Host Etiquette in the Japanese Tea Ceremony

The Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu) centers on the spirit of "wa-kei-sei-jaku" (harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility). Guest-host etiquette permeates the entire ritual, embodying mutual respect and humility. Key aspects include:

• Entering the Tearoom:
  Guests remove shoes outside, bow (usually a slight bow), and quietly crawl on their knees through the small entrance (nijiriguchi) to show reverence for the host and the tearoom. The host greets them at the entrance, establishing a serene atmosphere.

• Seating Arrangement:
  The host (teishu) sits in the main position (before the tokonoma alcove). Guests sit in order of status (principal guest, secondary guest, etc.), with fixed seating reflecting hierarchical order and harmony.

• Greetings and Bowing Rituals:
  At the ceremony's start and end, host and guests exchange bows (the angle adjusted based on relationship depth, e.g., a deep bow shows highest respect). The host offers the initial greeting, and guests respond with humble words.

• Appreciating Utensils & Interaction:
  When the host presents utensils (e.g., tea bowl, whisk), guests receive them with both hands, examine them carefully, and offer quiet praise (e.g., "exquisite preparation"). The host responds humbly.

• Tea Drinking Procedure:
  Guests hold the bowl with both hands, rotate it clockwise to avoid their lips touching the front, sip quietly (finishing in three sips), and lightly wipe the rim. The host prepares the tea with focused, graceful movements, embodying the spirit of treasuring "one encounter, one chance" (ichigo ichie).

• Conversation and Silence:
  Conversation is limited to tea ceremony topics, kept concise and refined (e.g., praising utensils or the setting), avoiding personal chatter. Periods of silence (e.g., during tea preparation) emphasize introspection and focus, maintained jointly by host and guests.

• Conclusion and Gratitude Ritual:
  At the end, the host cleans the utensils. Guests perform a final bow and express thanks (e.g., "Thank you for the tea"). The host reciprocates, and guests depart quietly, completing the feeling of lingering farewell (nagori).

• Gifts and Expressing Sentiments:
  Guests often bring small gifts (e.g., Japanese sweets, wagashi) to express appreciation; the host reciprocates with tea sweets. Gift exchange is conducted discreetly, reflecting reciprocity and gratitude.

These detailed etiquettes collectively deepen the spiritual exchange between host and guests, creating a solemn and harmonious tea ceremony experience.