 The History
of Tea
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The history of tea goes back to 729 and the introduction of Buddhism
to Japan, but it didn't become popular with the people until this century.
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Maybe this was due to the fact that it had to be imported from China
and the price was probably too high for most of the commoners. In addition
to that, it was used in religious ceremonies, and therefore restricted
for the use of certain classes of people, such as priests and rulers.
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It was an imported product for over 500 years! That is the fact that
surprises me more than any other. Not until 1191, did it become a culti-
vated product in Japan.
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Even then, the preparation methods were not common knowledge, and the
Japanese had to develop their own techniques.
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This is not an uncommon procedure for the Japanese, and even today,
they take things that are pleasing or practical, and adopt them into their
own culture. I think this ability is a realistic and valuable characteristic.
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Today, tea is still a popular drink in Japan. The Way of Tea is alive
and well, with many young people practicing it. I like the tea ceremony,
and the mood that goes with it. How about you?
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In our own part of the Sanin Area, The 7th Lord of Matsue Castle, Fumaiko
Matsudaira, became a great tea master. He encouraged all the arts relating
to the tea ceremony such as: ceramics, lacquerware, tea cakes, metal work,
and bamboo handicraft, as well as the raising of tea itself.
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It is said that he was a poor ruler, but a great tea master. His Way
of Tea is still popular, and practiced by many followers. It's a worthwhile
art!
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