Our courses
Experience Courses
New Basic Course Classes Scheduled!
Sunday, October 18th
Sunday, November 1st
Sunday, December 6th
For those who have some interest in tea, the ways of approaching that interest can vary greatly. However, if you find yourself not satisfied with just drinking matcha lattes or indulging in matcha sweets at cafes, and you’re curious to learn more about matcha, or even want to try preparing matcha yourself, it’s likely that you are drawn to the serene and tranquil atmosphere that matcha embodies.
If you have the desire to:
- Enjoy making and sipping delicious matcha on your own
- Explore Japanese culture
- Find inner calmness and tranquility
- Connect with others through tea
Then we invite you to join our Experience Course. The purpose of the tea ceremony is to offer a cup of delicious tea to others in a serene environment, to sip it yourself, and to share that moment together. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply in the comfort of your own home, the concept revolves around turning the ordinary into the extraordinary in your daily life.
Included in this course:
- Presentation
A presentation on the history and philosophy of the tea ceremony with an actual tatami tea room and tea utensils. - Tea Demonstration
A demonstration of tea preparation and opportunity to drink a delicious bowl of matcha. Depending on the course, various tea preparation styles will be shown. - Experience Making Matcha
An opportunity to both make matcha as the host and drink matcha as a guest just like in a traditional tea ceremony. In the advanced Ⅱ course, you can experience drinking not only thin tea but also thick tea.
One day Basic
This course is designed for those who are curious about matcha or those who want to add matcha to their tea repertoire. In this course, you will learn two main aspects:
Firstly, you will discover the philosophy behind the tea ceremony environment and how to create and incorporate the tranquility of such a space into your daily life.
Secondly, you will learn how to prepare delicious matcha. You will explore aspects such as the types and grades of matcha, the differences between matcha and other green teas, suitable confectionery to pair with matcha, selecting the right tea bowl, and most importantly, the art of making a delicious bowl of matcha.
Classes are held on the first Sunday of every month. Check our Events page for the next available class dates!
One day Advanced
This course is designed for those who wish to gain a deeper understanding of and immerse themselves in the cultural background of matcha. The act of enjoying matcha in a quiet, purified space also seeks a high level of spirituality. As Chanoyu is connected with Zen, the act of preparing and drinking a bowl of tea becomes a mindfulness practice.
Participants will learn about the spiritual connection between chanoyu and Zen, as well we about the utensils for enjoying chanoyu with others. In addition, we will cover, to the extent possible, areas of interest to the participants.
In the practical part of the course, you will learn how to prepare tea smoothly, as well as the postures, manners, and handling of the utensils that reflect the spirit of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.
This course is recommended for those who have taken the Basic Course.
Classes are available by request only. If you’re interested, visit our Contact Us page!
Three day fundamentals
This course is designed for those who wish to go beyond a single experience and begin learning the essential mindset and foundational skills of hosting a Japanese tea ceremony. Through three structured sessions, you will learn both the spiritual foundation and the basic techniques necessary to welcome guests as a host.
In this course, you will master two main topics:
Firstly, you will explore how to prepare the tea space—understanding the significance of the hanging scroll, the utensils selected for the day, and the overall arrangement that reflects the theme and season.
Secondly, you will learn the fundamental procedures of preparing tea, focusing on correct posture, movements, and etiquette. You will study and practice Bonryaku-demae, the basic form of thin-tea preparation.
Classes will be held in three separate sessions, over three consecutive months, one session on the first Sunday of every month from 1:00–2:30 PM (Please note: the schedule is subject to change without notice).
Classes are available by request only. If you’re interested, visit our Contact Us page!
Member Courses
Those who wish to deepen their knowledge of the world of tea, learn and master the art of tea preparation, and enjoy tea and sweets in the serene environment of a tea room every week can join as official members and enroll in our Regular and Advanced classes.
Throughout the year, students will be able to practice weekly, progressing at their individual pace. They will also have the opportunity to participate in seasonal tea gatherings and connect with many tea enthusiasts through our members’ cozy events.
Once you reach a certain level, you can share the meaning and joy of tea with others through demonstrations and teaching in our tea classes.
Students can become a member of the Urasenke Tankokai San Diego Association and participate in events such as tea ceremonies organized by the San Diego Association. Additionally, you can become a member of the Urasenke organization, allowing you to attend seminars and tea gathrings hosted by the Urasenke headquarters or other associations.
Regular
Every week (typically three times a month) on designated days, each student will practice both as the host and the main guest within a small group of fellow students. Initially, students will start with basic movements and beginner-level tea procedures using a table and chair seating arrangement. At the beginning of each class, an explanation on the day’s kakemono(scroll), tea flowers, seasonal events will be given. While other students are practicing, you may practice as the second or third guest, or observe other students’ procedure.
Class Days:
- Tuesdays
- Wednesdays
- Saturdays
Advanced
Students who have built a solid foundation of proficiency, are able to participate in practicing Shikaden, Kagetsu, and Chaji.
The “Shikaden” is a practice aimed at mastering intermediate-level temae (procedures) known as “Sodenmono.” Beyond this level, there are no textbooks, and the teachings are conveyed solely through oral transmission from the teacher.
The “Shichijishiki” is a special practice designed for the refinement of one’s tea skills, involving the participation of five students practicing together.
The “Chaji” is a practice where you learn the preparation and necessary utensils for a full tea gathering (Chaji), and acquire fundamental knowledge and etiquette to participate as a guest. The ultimate goal is to be able to host a Chaji on your own and graciously welcome guests.