A garden found walking Nioumon dori, Okazaki in Kyoto was the best ”private” garden I’ve seen in Kyoto and I’ve been lucky to have walked past a few. Why this one? Because, I’m continually peering through gateways and entries hoping to see the perfect Japanese garden and this one stood out maybe because of its intricacy in design, complexity and visual appeal when observed from its prospective viewing points.

The garden is located within an exclusive Tea house and Inn and is immaculate in health and vitality. The use of ornaments and symbolism varied including items of unusual shapes and forms. I noticed the garden was modeled on a stroll garden pattern done in miniature and built for viewing. Stepping stones positioned along the pathway which winds its way around a central pond linked by a stream with a water cascade. The pathway darting off into corners, no doubt hiding something of interest from the observer. Stone bridges cross a stream to add affect and interest and clear water reflecting within the pondage containing colourful Koi Carp. Lanterns placed carefully to provide balance in symmetry.

The garden area designed to form a half crescent shape weaving around two sides of the Inn with the widest part near the centre suggesting the Inn and garden were designed as one. The Inn having three separate dining areas facing the gardens through full length windows and sliding paneled doors. Each dining area looking onto their own specially designed features.

I suspect in the evening the garden area would be lit carefully to expose each intended part without illuminating the garden proper, a touch of mystery beckoning the diner to guess what’s not illuminated by the lighting. One wouldn’t mind joining them. Read more »

The Japaneses Tea Ceremony is one of the most time honoured and ancient tradition in Japan. It shows hospitality and respect.

History of the Ceremony

It was during the eighth century that we see the first mention of a formal ceremony where drinking tea can be found, although, that ritual likely differs greatly then the tea ceremony of today. A Chinese Buddhist Priest wrote a book called “Cha Ching”. This book described described the proper method of preparing tea including the use of proper tea vessels and the temperature of the hot water. It is believed that through this book developed the tea ceremony you would see today in Japan.

How to accept at a tea ceremony.

The steps are not difficult and are actually quite simple. You invite some guests, serve sweets and mix the bitter powdered green tea know as matcha with water. It is said that the combination between the sweets and the bitter tea compliment each other like a symbol for harmony. If you ever find yourself at one these are the basic six steps to accepting the tea from your host.

1. First you bow when you receive the cup of tea which is called a chawan

2. Next you take the chawan (tea cup) with your right hand and place it in the palm of your left hand.

3.Then you turn the tea cup clockwise three times before you drink it.

4. When you have finished the tea be sure to make a loud slurp to let the host know you have enjoyed it.

5. Next you wipe the part of the cup that has touched your lips with your right hand

6. You then turn the chawan (tea cup) counter-clockwise three times and return it to your host. Read more »

Japanese teapot tetsubin has greatly evolved. It originated as a vessel used centuries ago to heat water for tea and now is also used to provide warmth and humidity in every home during the winter or even all year round. With its amazing aesthetic and functionality, modern tetsubins now come in variety of style, design and sizes.

Japanese cast iron teapots are known for rugged durability. However, under certain circumstances, the cast iron can begin to rust. You see, apart from the usual care that you give to your utensils, cast iron teapots will demand more attention to ensure that you don’t get an overdose of rust.

Here are some tips to try to remove rust from cast iron:

Vinegar and Water Solution. A mixture of water and white vinegar is a good cleaning solution. With a little elbow grease this 50-50 vinegar and water mixture can remove the rust in your tetsubin. For tough rust, it may be a good idea to use baking soda as an abrasive. First, scrub the area with baking soda then add the vinegar and water solution.

Potato Method. Often when you research for home remedies for removing rust the idea of using a potato is often mentioned. Actually, there is no property that makes the potato any more useful than a scrub brush. Slice a potato and dip it in baking soda, or vinegar. One great thing about potatoes is that they are handy and available. Read more »