Story 5

In a Realm Devoid of Embraces: Senno Soutan's Art of Welcome

In a culture where the warmth of hugs, handshakes, or even a simple fist bump remains conspicuously absent, the art of extending a gracious welcome takes on a distinct flavor. Allow me to regale you with the charming tale of Senno Soutan, a master of the Japanese tea ceremony, and his ingenious approach to hospitality.

Senno Soutan, the illustrious grandson of the renowned tea master Senno Rikyu, bore the weighty legacy of his lineage. Senno Rikyu, an influencer of immense stature in the tumultuous 16th century, met a regrettable end at the hands of the reigning powers, who perceived his influence as a threat to their regime.

In a determined bid to uphold his grandfather's teachings, Soutan artfully steered clear of political entanglements. He steadfastly refused the allure of numerous job offers extended by various feudal lords throughout his lifetime. Financial stability remained an elusive companion on his life's journey, but Soutan discovered profound beauty and contentment in the most minimalist existence.

One fateful day, a dear priestly friend dispatched a young monk bearing a delicate gift—a sprig of camellia. These camellia blooms, plump and tender, held an unfortunate proclivity for detachment from their twigs, akin to severed heads. Alas, the young monk's precious camellia met such a fate on its way to Soutan's abode.

As the crestfallen monk presented the detached bloom, the bereft twig, and a crestfallen countenance, Soutan responded with an act of sublime grace. He ushered the young monk into his tranquil tea room, where simplicity reigned supreme. Gently, he removed a painting from the wall and tenderly placed the fragile twig into a vase, hanging it in the painting's stead. The solitary camellia found its new home on the floor below, nestled amidst an arrangement of pottery and artifacts.

In this humble tea room, constructed predominantly from wood and earth, a subtle crimson hue emerged, as if heralding the joy that this unexpected visitor had ushered in. The two companions partook in a serene tea ceremony, and as they savored the soothing brew, Soutan expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the monk before bidding him adieu.

In the delicate transformation of the monk's mishap into a poignant work of art, and the ensuing communion over tea, Soutan etched an indelible memory into that day's annals. While the camellia's bloom may have been severed, the intentions of a dear friend and the monk's earnest endeavor remained as steadfast as the enduring spirit of Senno Soutan himself. ☺️🍵🌸

Personalize your private Japan tours HERE

Image: flowers in a tearoom

#HistoricalJapan #camellia #wayoftea #japan #japaneseculture #flowerlovers #japan #japaneseethics #minimalism