Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on September 2011

The Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony, part of the Tokyo Culture Creation Project, allows English speakers to learn about the esoteric tea ritual in two placid settings. Tea came to Japan from China in the 12th century, and the quintessentially Japanese chanoyu tea ceremony had acquired its classic form by the 16th century. Over four days, visitors can enjoy a special nodate open-air ceremony and take in traditional music and dance performances. With tourists slim on the ground, this year’s event looks to be nicely uncrowded.

Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, Oct 1-2 and Hamarikyu Gardens, Oct 22-23 (listing).