Hi hi! Jess again!
Of all the things that to me represent “traditional Japan”, the tea ceremony has got to be near the top of the list. But although its image is one of austerity and formality (perhaps rightfully), there is at least one place in Tokyo you can go to experience this ancient tradition without fretting about etiquette or your legs falling asleep as you struggle to remain in a proper seiza (“correct sitting”) position: YUKA-AN, an authentic Japanese tearoom which is part of Gallery Okubo, an antique shop with 100 years of history near Nippori Station.
A charming traditional offering of matcha and wagashi (traditional sweets) at YUKA-AN
The gallery, which deals in both Japanese and Western antique tableware, features display cases filled to the brim with gorgeously decorated ceramics and lacquerware. Nearly everything is for sale, and each has a story to tell. One of the owners explained the influence of Japanese and European cultures on one another, as can be seen in the “Japonisme” style of illustrated porcelain that the gallery has on display.
I spy ladies in kimono!
