On Monday, August 5, 2024, the Way of Tea experience was held in two sessions for 64 participants of the 76th Japan America Student Conference at the Shoya House in the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. The Japan America Student Conference is the oldest international student exchange organization in Japan, dating back to 1934. Students from both Japan and the U.S. come together for a month-long summer living together to discuss not only Japan and the U.S., but also various global issues.

　The scroll “Today is a good day,” written by Hounsai Daisosho, and the ukago, with flowers of midsummer, were set in the alcove. Narrator Duffy Soho explained the meaning of “Wa Kei Sei Jaku” and emphasized the sense of togetherness in the Way of Tea.  He, then introduced the seasonal utensils that the host had prepared with today’s guests in mind. Students of Robinson Soshin and Uyesugi Soyu used a karakane chosen furo with shin nari kama made by Josei.  A koi water container by Myozen was placed on the nagaita. They used an uzu natsume (made by Hyosaku) and the teascoop with poetic name Seiryu (meaning clear stream) for making thin tea. The main chawan was Ninsei utsushi ayu, made by Azan. The nerikiri “morning glories”” with plum flavor were made by Zenya Nobuhatsu.                                                

　Although the day was extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 100°F, a cool breeze blew through the tearoom, and each participant enjoyed the tea and sweets with great interest. It was an enormous pleasure to see the spirit of the Way of Tea being conveyed to these promising young people who will take the lead in the world in the future.