Japanese Foreign Minister's Commendation to Urasenke Abu Dhabi Study Group

     
     On 26th of October, H.E. Akio ISOMATA, Ambassador of Japan to the United Arab Emirates, conferred the Foreign Minister's Commendation to “Urasenke Abu Dhabi Study Group” in recognition of its distinguished service in promoting Japanese culture through “Cha-Do” (The Way of Tea) in the United Arab Emirates, contributing to promoting friendly relations between Japan and the UAE.
 
     Established in 2010, the group has been regularly conducting lessons for Emiratis to learn “Cha-Do” (The Way of Tea) at Ryoku-Sui-An, the Japanese tea house which was presented to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, by Dr. Genshitsu Sen, the 15^th-generation Grand Master of Urasenke, a prominent school of Japanese tradition of tea, in 2009. The group also has been actively participating in various cultural events across the UAE, introducing the charm of this Japanese tradition.
 
     The Urasenke Tradition of Tea is one of the most prominent schools of the Way of Tea in Japan, with a history dating back to the 16th century. Its philosophy is based on the principles of harmony (wa), respect (kei), purity (sei), and tranquility (jaku) which are reflected in every aspect, from the preparation of a bowl of tea to the serving of it to the guests.