Tokonoma is a built in recessed space in a Japanese style reception room wherein items for artistic appreciation are displayed – such as calligraphic or pictorial scrolls, or an arrangement of flowers. Our Ikebana arrangements for our meeting today were intended for Tokonomas (or alcove) sitting on tatami mats.
Our guest presenters were members of the Urasenke Tankokai Manila Association, a group that encouraged international friendship between the Philippines and Japan through “Chado” – the way of tea. There is a formal code of conduct in the Chado that is followed strictly.
The Japanese tea ceremony is hundred of years old, and is a hybrid of a religious and social ritual. And if you have been privileged to attend, make the best of a rare opportunity.
