Japanese Tea Ceremony (Cha No Yu) - t-buds

More than just matcha! Step into Cha No Yu, the Japanese “Way of Tea”, and participate in a mindful cultural experience.
About this Event

Reina Sakao, known as Madame Matcha, is coming from Montreal to Toronto on December 4 for a special Japanese Tea Ceremony in collaboration with t-buds! This will be a table-style tea ceremony called Ryu-rei, which is conducted at a table with guests seated on chairs.

Curious about Japanese tea ceremonies? Whether it’s your first time or you’re already interested in Japanese culture, you’re welcome to join! No prior experience is needed. Slow down, be present, and discover the art and meaning behind Cha No Yu (茶の湯), the Japanese Way of Tea.

What You’ll Experience

• Meet your tea instructor: Learn with Reina Sakao, a first-degree Urasenke tea instructor from a fourth-generation Japanese tea family.
• Discover the Way of Tea: Explore the meaning and philosophy behind Cha No Yu.
• Experience the rituals: Take part in the steps of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and learn proper guest etiquette.
• Explore Zen principles: Discover the ideas of mindfulness, presence, and appreciation that are central to the ceremony.
• Matcha and sweets: Enjoy authentic matcha from Kyoto, paired with wasanbon sweets (plant-based and gluten-free) traditionally served in Japanese tea ceremonies.

Sakao matcha products will be available for purchase after the event.

Take a break, experience something new, and find your moment of zen. We look forward to sharing this experience with you!

(*Please note that the event requires a minimum number of registrations and may be cancelled if the minimum is not met one week before the event. Private at-home tea ceremony services with Reina are available upon request. Please email [email protected] to discuss arrangements and availability. Thank you for your understanding and support for small Canadian businesses!)

About Reina Sakao

Reina is a fourth-generation member of a Japanese tea house family. Through Sakao, she brings a collection of Japanese teas to cafés, shops, restaurants, and tea lovers across Canada. As a Japanese tea ceremony instructor, she is passionate about sharing her culture through tea ceremonies and hands-on workshops.

Follow @teasakao on Instagram and @teasakaotoronto for upcoming workshops and events in Toronto!