The Presentation of Matcha in a Tea Ceremony

In the tea ceremony, the presentation of matcha is the core ritual, embodying the spirit of Japanese teaism: "Wa-Kei-Sei-Jaku" (harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility). As a powdered tea, matcha presentation emphasizes ritual, aesthetics, and interaction. Below is a detailed breakdown of the matcha presentation process:

I. Preparation Stage

• Tea Utensil Preparation:

  • Chawan (Tea Bowl): Selected to match the ceremony’s theme (e.g., Raku or Karatsu ware), reflecting the seasonal theme.
  • Chasen (Bamboo Whisk): Used to whisk matcha; softened in warm water beforehand.
  • Chashaku (Bamboo Scoop): Measures matcha powder (typically 1.5–2 scoops).
  • Natsume or Chaire (Tea Caddy): Holds matcha powder—lacquered for thin tea, ceramic for thick tea.
  • Mizusashi (Water Container): Holds fresh water for cleansing utensils.
  • All utensils must be cleaned and arranged orderly before the ceremony, reflecting the principle of "purity and tranquility."

• Matcha Powder Preparation:

  • Use high-quality matcha (e.g., Uji matcha), selected based on ceremony type:
    • Usucha (Thin Tea): Lighter consistency, less powder (~1.5g), suited for casual ceremonies.
    • Koicha (Thick Tea): Viscous consistency, more powder (~3–4g), used in formal settings.
  • Matcha must be freshly ground or sealed to prevent moisture.

II. Presentation Process

The presentation involves two stages: tea preparation (temae) and serving (osame), with host-guest interaction as key.

1. Temae (Tea Preparation):

   • The host scoops matcha into the bowl using the chashaku.
   • Adds hot water (70–80°C), adjusting volume by tea type: ~60ml for usucha, ~30ml for koicha.
   • Whisk vigorously with the chasen:
     • Usucha: Rapid "W-shaped motion" to create fine foam.
     • Koicha: Slow stirring into a thick paste, avoiding bubbles.
   • The process is performed quietly and attentively, embodying "tranquility."

2. Osame (Serving):

   • The host rotates the bowl (usually clockwise) to present its front to the guest, showing respect.
   • Offers the bowl reverently, saying, "Please enjoy the tea" (O-temae o dōzo).
   • The guest rotates the bowl (avoiding drinking from the front), expresses thanks, and sips slowly to savor the flavor and bowl’s aesthetics.

III. Aesthetics and Etiquette

• Tea Space Arrangement:
  • The tearoom is minimalist and elegant, highlighting natural elements (e.g., flowers, scrolls).
  • Utensils follow the tokonoma (alcove) principle to create harmony.
• Spiritual Essence:
  • Emphasizes ichi-go ichi-e ("one time, one meeting"), where host and guest cherish the shared moment.
  • Movements are graceful and silent, conveying "respect."
• Common Variations:
  • Formal ceremony: Focuses on koicha with intricate steps.
  • Casual ceremony: Features usucha, ideal for beginners.

In essence, matcha presentation transcends mere tea drinking—it fuses art and philosophy. Through meticulous utensil preparation, ritualized steps, and interactive etiquette, it conveys the profound culture of the Way of Tea.