Step into the serene tea rooms of the East-West Chanoyu Center and immerse yourself in the timeless art of Chanoyu, the Japanese tea ceremony. Listen to the gentle sound of water simmering in the iron kettle, admire the subtle seasonal beauty of hand-made tea utensils, and savor the faint, elegant scent of incense drifting through the air.
On weekends, join a tour of the tea rooms and enjoy a bowl of frothy, whisked matcha—offered compliments of King County 4Culture. This quiet, multi-sensory experience restores the spirit and nurtures a deep sense of harmony and presence.
No reservations are needed for this free offering, held Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00–2:00 PM, February through December (excluding holidays and the month of August).
Before you leave, stop by Hosekibako, the Japanese Cultural and Community Center’s charming resale shop on the first floor of the East Building, just below the tea rooms.
Discover our full calendar of immersive programs, including:
Ceremony Instruction – Develop your understanding and practice of Chanoyu for all levels.
Monthly Matcha Workshops – Explore the art of preparing and enjoying matcha.
Quarterly Kimono Workshops – Learn to style kimono for EWCC students.
Seasonal Member’s Tea Gatherings – Experience the beauty of tea in an intimate setting.
Private Tea Ceremonies by Request – Arrange a private tea experience for individuals or groups.
Weekend Tearoom Tours – Enjoy a guided introduction to the architecture and aesthetics of Chanoyu with a complementary bowl of matcha and sweets.
Visit the Participation tab to discover how you can engage with our programs and become part of our growing tea community.
The East-West Chanoyu Center is dedicated to cultivating a deep appreciation for Japanese art and culture, with a special focus on Chanoyu—the Way of Tea. Rooted in over 400 years of tradition, Chanoyu is more than just a ritual; it is an art form that weaves together the aesthetics and ethic of wabi, with design, craftsmanship, and hospitality, that offers a timeless blueprint for harmonious living.
Join us in exploring this rich and meaningful tradition.
We acknowledge the generous support of King County 4Culture ‘Building for Equity’ funding for the tearoom construction, and ‘Arts Sustained’ support for our program.