JAPANESE TEA CEREMONY: RITUALS, AESTHETICS, AND SPIRITUAL VALUES IN THE MODERN ERA

Abstract

Japanese Tea Ceremony (茶道, sadō or chadō) is not merely a way of drinking tea, but an art of living imbued with philosophy and aesthetics, reflecting both the national spirit and the harmony between human beings and nature. In the era of globalization, the tea ceremony functions not only as a traditional ritual but also as a practice that nurtures spirituality, supports education, promotes cultural exchange, and reinforces Japanese identity on the international stage. This study seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of the history, characteristics, rituals, aesthetics, and spiritual values of the tea ceremony, drawing on documentary analysis, comparative perspectives, and scholarly works from both traditional and modern viewpoints. In doing so, it affirms the role of the tea ceremony as an enduring form of intangible cultural heritage with lasting vitality.