Sen So’oku: The Subtle Art of the Japanese Tea Ceremony

Sen So’oku, heir to the Mushakouji Senke tea school, returns to Japan Society for a special talk on the Japanese art of chanoyu, or tea ceremony. A descendant of the great Sen Rikyu, originator of the tea ceremony, So’oku is admired for his ability to introduce the time honored traditions of this ancient art to a modern, international public in innovative ways. At this talk, So’oku reflects on the impact his tea practice had on New York during his year spent here as a Japan Cultural Envoy, as well as how his own style changed during that time. Moderated by Martin Hara, Vice President of the Hammond Museum Tea Club (Ryu Sui Kai) and President of Rinzai Zen Sangha, Inc, a non-profit dedicated to traditional Rinzai Zen Buddhist practice.