Central Los Angeles : Japanese Tea-Making Ritual Displayed

The ancient art of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony was demonstrated for the public at the New Otani Hotel in Little Tokyo as part of the hotel’s series of cultural programs.

Soshin Iinuma, an instructor of the Ura Senke School of Tea, performed her interpretation of the tea-making ritual in the hotel lobby.

“We like to introduce Japanese culture here,” said Yoko Sugi, associate director of social affairs for the hotel.

The cultural programs, which include demonstrations of other Japanese traditions such as flower arrangement and calligraphy, are intended to breed friendship between Japanese and Americans, Sugi said.

The next event is a May 5 celebration of Tango-no-sekku, or Children’s Day, featuring a demonstration of the martial art kendo.