Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience in Uji

A look at my Japanese tea ceremony experience at Taiho-an in Uji -- located just outside of Kyoto in Japan. The city is renowned for its green tea production, and there are myriad opportunities for sampling and learning. The team ceremony itself begins with some sweet wagashi made in accordance with the seasons (ours was shaped like a hydrangea flower for summer) to help sweeten the bitter taste of the tea. Moreover, service is impeccable and hosts are gracious and tea is made in a beautiful and delicate manner, to please guests in case it is their last moment on earth. A great philosophy to live by, don't you think?