Discover Tranquility: Tea Ceremonies in Washington Park
In a world brimming with distractions, few experiences can help you reconnect with mindfulness, tranquility, and beauty like Chado—the Way of Tea. There are many opportunities to visit Portland Japanese Garden for this cultural demonstration, where you’ll get to slow down, reflect, and delve into the profound Japanese practice of tea ceremonies.
Embrace the Art of Chado
Chado is more than just a way to enjoy a cup of tea; it’s a spiritual practice that embodies the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. During this enriching demonstration, you’ll witness the delicate preparation and serving of matcha, a finely ground green tea, as a skilled practitioner guides you through each step of the ceremony. You’ll find that each movement is intentional, creating a serene atmosphere that invites you to immerse yourself fully in the moment.
The Way of Tea is deeply intertwined with the essence of Japanese gardening, or Kokoro. This connection invites you to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you, fostering a sense of peace and reflection. As you engage in this ritual, you’ll discover how the practice of Chado encourages mindfulness, allowing you to connect with nature and the present moment in a meaningful way.
What to Know Before You Go
We experienced our first tea ceremony on a Wednesday afternoon in October. It was the perfect way to unwind. Because it was a sunny day, we knew parking would be a challenge, so we opted to take the Free Shuttle instead of drive to the Garden. (Note: When the sun shines, Washington Park is busiest! Especially on weekends, holidays, and no-school days. Taking the Washington Park Free Shuttle Loop to the Garden is always a good idea.)
We had the pleasure of meeting Margie Yap, owner of the Issoan Tea School in Portland, who has been practicing the Art of Chado since 1982. While gently explaining each step of the ceremony, Margie prepared matcha with slow and purposeful movements. The demonstration drew in quite a few visitors, but the room was almost completely silent. It was incredibly relaxing to be immersed in a group of people quietly focused on such a timeless Japanese tradition. After the ceremony, we took a stroll through the lush landscapes of the Garden, feeling completely refreshed.
Trip Tips
Take advantage of all Washington Park has to offer and make the most of your trip! Washington Park is home to many iconic destinations that you can enjoy on your mindfulness journey. Walk across the street from Portland Japanese Garden and take in the beauty of the International Rose Test Garden. Or ride our Free Shuttle Loop to Hoyt Arboretum and wander the peaceful trails.
Make sure to tag @explorewashingtonpark in the photos you share! There are infinite ways to connect with the beauty of nature in Washington Park, and we can’t wait to see you here soon.
