A Peaceful Experience with Guests from Australia

We had the pleasure of welcoming two lovely women visiting Tokyo from Australia.
They enjoyed both calligraphy and a tea ceremony, spending a calm and unhurried time together. For their calligraphy practice, they chose the kanji 「禅」 (Zen) and「幸」 (happiness). Each character reflected their gentle focus and individuality, and they carefully completed their works with great attention. The photographs we will share are of them holding their finished calligraphy pieces, each one filled with quiet strength and warmth.

After calligraphy, they experienced a traditional tea ceremony. At their request, they sat comfortably on chairs, relaxing as they watched the tea being prepared right in front of them. When they tasted the freshly whisked matcha, one of them smiled and said,
“Oh! It’s lovely.”

They told us that the matcha tasted completely different from what they usually drink at home, and that it was surprisingly delicious. Hearing this made me truly happy.

Sharing these moments — the written characters 「禅」 and 「幸」, the aroma of matcha, and their heartfelt reactions — reminded me once again how meaningful it is to connect through Japanese culture.

We are grateful they chose to spend part of their journey with us, and we hope the memory of this peaceful time stays with them long after they return home.