Two second-year GSIA students had an opportunity to enjoy and experience what the Japanese tea ceremony is all about. Practising the correct manners, and connecting with one’s inner emotions allowed them to delve into cross-cultural communications in a unique and pragmatic way. They were given the opportunity to practice with the master of the Japanese tea class, Professor Hsu. Beginning with slow movements and no talking, this ceremony is all about experiencing and appreciating the high context Power Distance Index of the Japanese culture. A special thank you to Dr. Emily Chow for arranging the time for the students to experience this activity, also to Dr. Hsu for being so kind and patient in demonstrating the step-by-step procedures of the Japanese tea ceremony. Called Chanoyu Sado, the Japanese Tea Ceremony includes the preparing and serving of Japanese green tea (Matcha), balanced with sweets to blend with the bitter taste of the tea. Preparing tea in this ceremony means pouring all one's attention into the predefined movements. The whole process is not about drinking tea, but is about aesthetics, preparing a bowl of tea from one's heart. The host of the ceremony always considers the guests with every movement and gesture. Even the placement of the tea utensils is considered from the guests’ view point.
