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Japan - request for information

Hi all,

I'm going to be in Japan at the end of the month, and I was wondering if any of you could recommend some tea-related activities or destinations in either Tokyo or Kyoto. In particular it would be great to have recommendations for specialty stores in Tokyo, as I'm spending a lot more time there than in Kyoto and I'd like to bring some tea back as gifts. Also, it would be good to hear opinions on whether or not it is worth one's time to seek out a demonstration of the tea ceremony (leaving aside the fact that I can't sit seiza for more than about 18 seconds).

thanks in advance

Alex (on second bowl of cold matcha)

Reply to
Alex
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Uji FTW! I had a friend who lived near Uji and the photos were amazing. So were the teas I used to get from him.

on a different note, if you are a "geek" at all or into electronics Shinjuku is pretty cool. I worked in the gaming media for a few years and Shinjuku was always a kind of Mecca.

Enjoy the trip, it will be two years before I can go to Uji but it is already planned.

- Dominic

Reply to
Dominic T.

Thanks everyone for all the great suggestions. I will definitely try to drop by Uji.

Dominic - I'm not that much of a geek but my cousin lives near Shinjuku so that's where I'm staying in Tokyo. It's a pretty amazing place.

Thiterflit - I don't suppose you could recommend a book or article about the tea ceremony? I read a bit of anthropology so perceived dryness or academic tone is ok. Also, thanks for the recommendation on Nezu, I will definitely check that out.

Reply to
Alex

As always I recommend "The Book of Tea" by Okakura. It is available for free online or for only about $4.00 at a bookseller.

Also, you lucky dog, I'd kill to have family by the Mecca of geekness ;)

The shots of Uji I saw were awe-inspiring and I can't see how anyone could go wrong with a trip there.

- Dominic

Reply to
Dominic T.

Is there such a thing as cha-otaku?

Reply to
DogMa

If there is, I think a lot of us qualify. I know that many of my friends find my obsession creepy.

Reply to
Alex

haha, yep. I think you just coined a new term. I think we're a long way from being nationally recognized and signing our charter, but maybe 4 or 5?? :)

- Dominic

Reply to
Dominic T.

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