I had a chance to visit our vendor outside of Kyoto area. It took me 2 train rides and a bus, plus a little walk but with rain, I felt it was quite a way. It was interesting to be in the country side. As you see, the farm was really green from the rain. Very beautiful. We did many tea tastings and looked at the tea trees. I really wish you could go with me to Japan. You will love the hospitality of people and truly fall in love with the country side. While I was waiting for a bus in the country side, there was an old woman start talking to me. Finally, she shared her snack with me. I wouldn't forget this kind of experience. Not a lot of people would share a snack with a stranger. Later, she showed me where my bus stop to the tea farm. Truly amazing time. From the picture, I learned that this tea farm is applying for a UNESCO site. This is because the first tea tree, 800 years ago, was planted in Japan in this area. Would you agree to its beauty? Como Park Japanese Tea Service was once again here. It was a beautiful day for the guests to visit Como Park and to try drinking Matcha, powdered green tea, in a Japanese Tea Service style. During the performance, initially, I was too nervous. I was afraid to do something wrong. When we study tea, our tea teachers always say "it is your tea and just do your best". After my 2 seconds of hesitation, I realized I only needed to do my best. One thing you learn to do when you learn tea is meditation. My mind was very focus on the task at hand. I forgot all my surrounding for a moment and tried to do my best. It turned out just fine despite all my worries (for nothing). Our guests were very engaged and asked a lot of questions - starting from the tea house itself, tatami mat (straw mat), other events and procedures of tea, etc. It was a great event. Please contact me if you would like to learn more. I will be doing more tea service in near future as we are trying to stir tea enthusiasts in Twin Cities.
|
Disclaimer: We are not associated with any local or oversea tea organization.
AuthorStaff at Great Tea Road Co Archives
October 2024
Categories |
In Store Hours
Tuesday - Saturday 08:00 AM - 4:00 PM ** Please check Google before visiting in case the operating hour has changed. |