The East-West Chanoyu Center warmly invites you to celebrate Hatsugama no Shiki, the joyous first kettle of the new year, on Sunday, January 17, 2026 in the Zuishin’an tearoom at the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington (JCCCW).

This festive occasion marks fresh beginnings and good fortune for the year ahead.

Event Schedule

• Seatings (Tsuzuki-Usucha): 10:30 a.m. or 2:00 p.m. (please choose one)

• Luncheon (for guests of both seatings): 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. in the West Building Conference Rooms

Fees

• Chakai: $35

• Luncheon: price varies according to your choice of obento prepared by ShoMon restaurant (Seattle). The menu and order form will be emailed in early January.

Reservation Deadline: Friday, January 9, 2026

Please reserve your seating and luncheon by emailing ewccseattle@gmail.com and making payment via Zelle.

───

2026 – Year of the Fire Horse “丙午” (Hinoe Uma)

A dynamic combination symbolizing energy, vitality, independence, strength, and endurance, the Fire element amplifies the Horse’s natural qualities, creating a year ripe for bold transformation and new opportunities.

Utakai Hajime 2026 – Imperial Poetry Theme: “明” (MEI)

The chosen character evokes light, clarity, and renewal—the gentle radiance that dispels shadows, born of understanding, hope, and illumination.

We look forward to welcoming you for this auspicious and uplifting celebration to begin the New Year together.

We sincerely acknowledge King County 4Culture for their generous support in funding the tearoom construction, as well as for their ongoing program support throughout the year.