The traditional Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu, or chado) is an art form, a spiritual discipline, a way to socialize, and a window into Japanese culture. Practiced for more than 450 years, this unique way of sharing tea has spread around the world.

Tea ceremonies at the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center are frequently led by members from the Chado Urasenke Tankokai Philadelphia Association, headquartered in Kyoto, Japan. Ceremonies are also led on special occasions by practitioners from Omotesenke Domonkai Eastern Region USA.

2026 Schedule

Saturday May 16, 2026
Omotesenke Tea Demonstrations

Thin Tea - 12:00 PM
Thin Tea - 1:00 PM
Thick Tea - 1:00 PM - Sold Out
Thick Tea - 2:00 PM - Sold Out

Upcoming Dates

Sunday, June 14th
Urasenke Tea Demonstrations

Sunday, July 12th
Urasenke Tea Demonstrations

Sunday, September 13th
Urasenke Tea Demonstrations

Saturday, October 3rd
Omotesenke Tea Demonstrations

Please note that advance registration is required to participate in all tea ceremony demonstrations at Shofuso. Check the JASGP program calendar for upcoming tea ceremony demonstrations.

Hosts wear traditional kimono, and will serve one or two guests of honor as part of the demonstration. Attendees will get an up-close view of the ceremony, and will receive a traditional seasonal sweet and a bowl of matcha (powdered green tea).

Attendance is limited, typically only 25 people or less can be accommodated at a sitting. Advance reservations are required.

There are many styles of tea ceremonies, but they typically include a ceremonial cleansing of the utensils, the serving of sweets, preparing and serving bowls of tea, and the appreciation of the artistry of the tools used in the performance.

Attire is casual, though some guests have dressed more formally for the occasion. Keep in mind that shoes will be removed, and that most sitting is on the floor, so dress accordingly.