Murata Shuko: the Tea Ceremony Creator that Transformed Tea into an Art

The Japanese tea ceremony creator is: Murata Shuko(1422-1502).

The Life

The path that led to Murata Shuko's interest in tea is rather interesting, somewhat coincidental.Murata Shuko was a priest of Zen Buddhism in early age. But then he was expelled because he kept falling asleep in class. After freed from the priesthood, Murata Shuko continued to follow another teacher. His tendency to fall to sleep was a big problem. Murata later discovered that drinking tea would help him to stay focused. From then on, Murata Shuko devoted his life to tea and tea ceremony.

The Legacy

This tea ceremony creator preferred to enjoy his tea in a small room. He also wanted be served by the host rather than servants. This gave him a sense of peace and sharing.

Murata Shuko's preferences for his tea experience marked the establishment of now Japanese tea ceremony.
Each Japanese tea ceremony is unique and special. The tea ceremony is not just about drinking tea. The scenery, art, tea ware, methods of making tea, ways of offering tea are all important in Japanese's tea drinking experience.

Zen's philosophy and priests such as Murata Shuko, played a crucial part in bringing tea to Japan. They also created artistic and meaningful tea ceremonies.
It's not an exaggeration to say that the cradle of the art of tea in Japan lies within Zen Buddhism.

The culture

Murata Shuko's interest and devotion to tea had integrated the tea ceremony into an important part of Japanese culture. He was known in Japan as the tea ceremony creator. Description of such sophisticated art in details will take more than one page. Much more actually!

However, a general idea will help you visualize the big picture much easier... Japanese reserve one room in their house just for the tea ceremony. The room is small and apart from the house. The decoration in the room is simple such as flowers or scrolled-down paintings. The purpose is to create a peaceful and comfortable scenario. The ceremony generally includes a light meal, a walk in the garden, and the tea ceremony.

The guests will follow the host into the tearoom. He or she will be served a light meal. Like sweet cakes, for example. The guest will then leave the teahouse for a walk. When the guests return to the teahouse, the tea ceremony officially begins. The host will personally prepare the tea. The guests will watch their host boiling the water and whisking green tea powder into a cup of hot water.

The green tea powder is called Matcha. It is made from green tea leaves.Each of the guests then takes turn to enjoy the green tea. Not drink it, but rather take a sip and enjoy it. After this part of the ceremony, the host then offered each guest a cup of light tea.The Japanese tea ceremony officially ends when the host leaves the teahouse. Such sophisticate and formal ceremony, don't you think?