WORKSHOP

Historic Matcha Tasting Game:
Sensory Awakening through Tocha

Thursday May 8th, 2025
7PM-8:30PM (PDT)

@ Japan foundation, los angeles

(5700 wilshire blvd, ste 100, Los angeles CA 90036)

Free Admission

RSVP REQUIRED

The 10th-generation headmaster [Iemoto 家元] of the Hosokawa Tea School [細川御流] in Kyoto will visit Los Angeles for a special cultural event.

The program features a demonstration of the Japanese tea ceremony, followed by an exciting workshop of a historical tea tasting game – Tōcha [闘茶].

Originating in China, Tōcha was introduced to Japan in the 13th century and gained popularity through the Muromachi era. It became so wildly popular among samurai warriors, that it was eventually banned in the 14th century.

In this refined yet playful activity, participants taste different teas and attempt to identify their origin and type by evaluating subtle differences in flavor, aroma, and the way the tea foams in the bowl. It is a practice that sharpens the senses and celebrates the richness of tea culture.

INSTRUCTOR:

Yuki Okamoto 岡本友輝
Tea master and Ikebana teacher. 10th generation headmaster [Iemoto 家元] of the Hosokawa tea school [細川御流], with 170 years of history in Kyoto. Holds tea gatherings at temples and shrines, and mentors 50 students in Kyoto, Tokyo, and Nagoya.