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An Exceptional Tea Ceremony at Breteuil
Last Monday, the Land of the Rising Sun was honored at the Château de Breteuil through the organization of a tea ceremony conducted according to the purest Japanese tradition.

The ties between Breteuil and Japan are nothing new, as the Marquis Henri-François explains:

“Since 1975, we have organized many weddings for Japanese couples who came to confirm their union within the château. I myself have traveled to Japan several times, and the ceremony being held today illustrates this link between Breteuil and Japanese culture.”

Indeed, it was seven years ago, during the confirmation of Sôyu Mori’s marriage within the walls of the château, that the owner of the estate met the man who, this time, had come to serve as the tea ceremony master.

Awakening the Five Senses
It is a ceremony during which time seems to stand still, as the solemn atmosphere surrounding the preparation of tea for the guests demonstrates the importance of this tradition in the hearts of the Japanese.

“A tradition dating back to the 15th century, intended to appreciate nature and to enjoy a pleasant moment shared between host and guests,” explains Yoko Kishikawa, who interpreted alongside Sôyu Mori during the ceremony.

The care and precision with which the host prepares the tea reveal all the symbolism hidden within this moment. From preparing the fukusa, a cloth used to purify the utensils — the natsumé and chashaku — to mixing powdered green tea with hot water using a whisk, every step has its own significance.

The guest is then served and, in turn, follows an established ritual: greeting the host, taking the bowl and turning it twice in their hands, drinking the tea and, as a sign of gratitude, … not hesitating to make a sound while swallowing the final sip!

It is a ceremony that awakens all five senses, while expressing the history, tradition, and craftsmanship of a country whose culture is deeply rooted and very much alive.

L. Lecoeur