In Japan, it’s “O-cha.” In India, it’s “Chai.” But in English, it’s “Tea.” In French, it’s “Thé.”

Why do almost all languages on Earth fall into one of these two groups? The answer isn’t random. It actually reveals a map of ancient trade routes. The name you use depends entirely on whether the tea arrived in your country by land or by sea.

Here is the fascinating story behind the two names.

1. The Land Route: The “Cha” Team

The pronunciation “Cha” (or Chai) has its roots in the Cantonese and Mandarin pronunciations used in mainland China.

Centuries ago, tea traveled out of China along the Silk Road. Traders carried tea leaves on camels and horses across Central Asia to the West. Because these traders learned the name from people in northern and central China, the sound “Cha” spread along with the leaves.

• Where did it go? This is why countries connected by land routes—such as Japan, Russia, India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa—use variations of “Cha” or “Chai.”

2. The Sea Route: The “Tea” Team

On the other hand, the word “Tea” comes from a very specific dialect called Min Nan, spoken in the Fujian province (specifically around the port city of Xiamen/Amoy). In this local dialect, the character for tea (茶) is pronounced “Te” (tay).

In the 17th century, Dutch traders arrived at these coastal ports in Fujian to buy tea. They didn’t take the Silk Road; they took ships. They learned the local word “Te” and brought it back to Europe.

• Where did it go? The Dutch introduced the word to their neighbors. This is why England (Tea), France (Thé), Spain (Té), and Germany (Tee) all use this version. Later, European colonists took this word to the Americas and other parts of the world.

Conclusion: A Lesson in Logistics

It is amazing to think that a single word can tell us how our ancestors traded.

• If your country got tea via camels and horses (Land Route), you likely say Cha.

• If your country got tea via ships and sailors (Sea Route), you likely say Tea.

So, the next time you sip your cup of tea (or cha), remember: you aren’t just drinking a beverage; you are tasting a piece of global history!

Should you read it as “Sadō”? Or is “Chadō” the correct pronunciation?

The short answer is: Both are correct!

However, the reason why there are two different readings is a fascinating mix of history, tradition, and the styles of different tea schools. Here is a breakdown to help you understand the difference.

1. A Look Back at History

Historically, during the Edo period, the word was generally pronounced “Chadō.”

However, as Japan moved into the modern era, the reading “Sadō” became more widespread. Today, “Sadō” is the most common way to read it in general conversation.

There is also an interesting theory about why the change happened. In the past, there was a specific job title for the person in charge of tea for the Shogun or head monks, which was called “Sadō” (written as 茶頭). To avoid confusing the practice of tea with the person serving it, people started calling the practice “Chadō” for a while. Eventually, usage shifted back and forth.

2. Different Schools, Different Readings

In the world of Tea Ceremony, there are three main historical schools (known as the San-Senke). Depending on which school you belong to, the preferred pronunciation changes:

• Urasenke (裏千家): They traditionally prefer “Chadō.”

• Omotesenke (表千家): They mainly use “Sadō,” though they aren’t strictly against the other reading.

• Mushakōjisenke (武者小路千家): They don’t mind either, but they often prefer using the older, softer term “Chanoyu” (茶の湯) instead of the word “Tea Ceremony.”

3. The “Cha” Connection

From a linguistic perspective, “Chadō” actually makes a lot of sense.

Think about other tea-related words in Japanese:

• Cha-gama (Tea kettle)

• Cha-shitsu (Tea room)

• Cha-wan (Tea bowl)

• Cha-dougu (Tea utensils)

Since almost all related tools and terms start with the sound “Cha,” saying “Chadō” feels very natural and consistent.

Conclusion: Which Should You Use?

Today, public institutions like NHK (Japanese National Broadcasting) recognize both readings as correct. However, in general news and casual conversation, you will hear “Sadō” more often.

So, which one should you use? If you are practicing with the Urasenke school, stick to “Chadō.” If you are talking to a general Japanese friend, “Sadō” might be safer. But don’t worry—Japanese people understand both, and neither is considered “wrong.”

Whether you say Sadō or Chadō, the spirit remains the same: finding peace in a bowl of tea.

And I came to think this way especially because I myself went to art college, went to art graduate school, and was in the art world.

I believe that “feeling” is important in art, but there are other elements that we also find value in.

Language is a tool that connects people and culture

Naturally, language is also a tool that connects people and culture.

Languages differ because of their cultural backgrounds.

It can create differences, but it can also create “sameness” in essence.

This is because concepts such as love and happiness are recognized by almost the entire human race.

You may think that I am suddenly referring to a big concept. But grasping this fundamental concept will create more mutual understanding.

People, fundamentally, are the same.

People want to be happy and love themselves.

This principle is the same. Whether its form is happy or violent.

The form changes, i.e., different backgrounds, different cultures.

However, if the recipient is different, the way to convey the message must also be different to convey the feelings. That is why I pursue clarity, verbalize, and communicate.

Changing “I don’t have to say it” to “I dare to say it.



The ideal is to “understand without saying. And it is wonderful that they “get it.

But because not everyone does, it is recommended to verbalize as much as possible.

Which words you use at what time, depends on which person you are talking to, and on the situation. I think it is also important to properly understand and choose the right one.

By carefully using language, you will be able to understand more about the other person, and differences will become clearer, leading to better communication.

Add the background and reason for using that language as well.

If possible, also verbalize why you want to communicate it.

If you want to invite someone, add, “Because I want you to come.

If you care about someone, dare to say in advance, “Because you are important.

If you’ve been hurt by someone, minimize the trouble by dodging it well.

If you don’t want to hurt someone, choose your words in a way that makes the situation more comfortable by taking care not to hurt them.

Tools can be both friend and foe, so always look over your shoulder and make adjustments while keeping an eye on the whole situation.

Just being aware of this makes life much easier. Because the more control a person has over his or her life, the more stress is inversely proportional to the amount of control he or she has, and there is no need to make unnecessary enemies.

Hints for better survival can be found in the tea ceremony and Zen teachings.

The rapid development of AI (AGI) has been astonishing recently. Starting with ChatGPT, many AI systems have been announced, surprising people and increasingly incorporating them into work and personal life.

In fact, through using AI tools often in my own work and life, with each update of the latest information, I feel surprised and at times despair “If this is possible, are my previous skills unnecessary?”, yet I also feel the hope that “This is possible too.”

Through interacting with such AI (AGI), I have found commonalities with the tea ceremony.

1: Essential understanding is necessary for proper utilization

First of all, both require very deep contemplation and understanding. The tea ceremony is not just about drinking tea or making tea. There are etiquette, manners, unique Japanese aesthetic sensibilities, and connections to Zen.

Similarly, AI (AGI) is not just a simple calculator, but something that is developed through understanding human intelligence itself. In other words, it is derived from the entirety of human intelligence, not just some superficial aspects.

2: AI and tea ceremony are just tools

Similarly, tea ceremony and AI (AGI) are ultimately just tools. How they are used determines everything. The tea ceremony can just be drinking tea, but when practiced with awareness of Zen teachings, it becomes a profound experience. Initially, some may feel AI (AGI) is not immediately usable or does not provide desired answers. This stems from not yet fully understanding how to use and apply AI (AGI). Through deepening understanding of AI (AGI), trial and error reveals how to obtain desired responses.

3: Mastering usage leads to creativity

Balancing tradition and innovation is crucial to leverage tea ceremony and AI (AGI) skillfully. Tea ceremony has a long history, giving birth to many schools of thought. Likewise, AI (AGI) builds on previous human knowledge to make new proposals. Therefore, the past can inform creative applications for the future.

4: Experiencing them reveals insights

Tea ceremony is not just about drinking tea. It offers a window into Japanese identity, history, spirituality and culture. Similarly, hands-on experience with AI uncovers many insights. Seeing once is better than hearing a hundred times. If you haven’t tried AI (AGI), I recommend giving it a try – it will surface new perspectives.

5: Learning from tea ceremony’s evolution

AI (AGI) advancement raises concerns like “My skills will become useless” and “I’ll lose my job.” Throughout history, many occupations disappeared while new ones emerged. Perhaps this cycle is simply accelerating. The definition of jobs will change. Adapting to the evolving times may be key to survival, as tea ceremony’s history illustrates. Tea ceremony adapted its role to societal changes. To survive, it became more than just drinking tea. Therefore, it is best to enjoy it without rigid expectations.

(Verse 1)
In the land of the rising sun, where traditions thrive,
A tale of harmony and peace begins to come alive.
The Japanese tea ceremony, steeped in Zen’s embrace,
A graceful art of mindfulness, time cannot erase.

(Chorus)
Oh, let us gather ‘round, with reverence in our hearts,
To honor ancient customs, where tranquility imparts.
With every whisk and every sip, we find serenity,
In the rituals of the tea, a moment of clarity.

(Verse 2)
From ancient roots in China, the art of tea did bloom,
Brought to Japan’s shores, it found a sacred room.
A spiritual connection, between host and guest,
In silence and simplicity, a moment to be blessed.

(Bridge)
As we enter the tearoom, our footsteps hushed and light,
The aroma of fresh matcha fills the air, just right.
The tatami floors beneath us, a cushion for our souls,
In this timeless sanctuary, Zen’s wisdom unfolds.

(Chorus)
Oh, let us gather ‘round, with reverence in our hearts,
To honor ancient customs, where tranquility imparts.
With every whisk and every sip, we find serenity,
In the rituals of the tea, a moment of clarity.

(Verse 3)
With precision and grace, the tea master takes the lead,
Pouring water, measuring leaves, fulfilling every need.
Each movement deliberate, a dance of perfect form,
Transcending daily worries, finding peace in the norm.

(Chorus)
Oh, let us gather ‘round, with reverence in our hearts,
To honor ancient customs, where tranquility imparts.
With every whisk and every sip, we find serenity,
In the rituals of the tea, a moment of clarity.

(Outro)
So let us raise our cups, in mindful gratitude,
To the history that shaped us, the tea that has renewed.
In the Japanese tea ceremony, Zen’s essence we can see,
A timeless connection to the past, in harmony we’ll be.

User
Please continue.
ChatGPT
(Verse 4)
From the tranquil gardens, to the humble tea house,
The essence of Zen philosophy, whispers through each spouse.
The tea bowl, a vessel of simplicity and grace,
Reflecting inner stillness, finding solace in this space.

(Chorus)
Oh, let us gather ‘round, with reverence in our hearts,
To honor ancient customs, where tranquility imparts.
With every whisk and every sip, we find serenity,
In the rituals of the tea, a moment of clarity.

(Verse 5)
As the tea ceremony unfolds, time begins to fade,
In the presence of the moment, a profound connection made.
From the first sip to the last, a meditative state,
In the depths of silent contemplation, we find our truest fate.

(Bridge)
The history of centuries, woven in each thread,
The tea ceremony’s legacy, like whispers left unsaid.
Through the wisdom of Zen, we learn to be aware,
To savor each precious moment, with love and utmost care.

(Chorus)
Oh, let us gather ‘round, with reverence in our hearts,
To honor ancient customs, where tranquility imparts.
With every whisk and every sip, we find serenity,
In the rituals of the tea, a moment of clarity.

(Outro)
So let us carry forth, the spirit of the tea,
In our daily lives, with peace and harmony.
The history of the tea ceremony, forever we shall hold,
In the depths of our souls, its wisdom will unfold.

Note: This song lyric is an original creation inspired by the Japanese tea ceremony and Zen philosophy.

My earliest interest in the Japanese tea ceremony was Japanese sweets.

Many Japanese do not know the essence of what the tea ceremony is all about

I first came into contact with the Japanese tea ceremony when I was in the first year of junior high school, when I was about 13 years old.

Until then, I had no idea what the Japanese tea ceremony was all about.

All I knew was the image of drinking tea in a Japanese-style space that Japanese TV, cartoons, and magazines sometimes transmit.

I didn’t even know that you had to sit in seiza.

The trigger was coincidence.

However, by chance, there was a tea room at school and a club activity to learn the Japanese tea ceremony, so I went there with my friends to experience it.

I don’t remember much about it at the time, but I do remember that it was a very relaxing and comfortable space.

In that experience, I was actually served Japanese sweets and drank matcha tea.

It was a school with very strict school rules, so I was very happy to be able to have delicious Japanese sweets at the end of class, and I decided to join the Japanese tea ceremony club.

When I actually join the club, I go on a set day and receive direct instruction from the head teacher, who is dressed in a kimono.

Then, after the instruction, the teacher will talk about various topics related to the tea ceremony.

For example, they would talk in detail about the “content” of the tea ceremony, such as its history, the theme of the tea room today, and the meaning of the items he had prepared.

I especially loved hearing that story from the teacher every time.

I also began to study the tea ceremony myself by going to the library and reading various books on the Japanese tea ceremony.

This is how I got started in teaching the Japanese tea ceremony today.

This is because it has been used in manga and magazines.

However, in actual tea ceremonies and tea ceremony practice, such a line is not often used.

In fact, it is not recommended to use that dialogue.

Meaning「It was a well-performed tea serving」

Next, let us consider what is meant by the phrase, “It was a well-performed tea serving.”

First of all, the phrase “It was a well-performed tea serving” can mean many things to the other person.

For example

As a compliment, it can be used to express admiration for something.
As a recipient of a compliment, it means to affirm that “that’s fine.
As a person who evaluates the other person, it means “It’s not a passing grade, but it’s worth a certain amount.
It can also mean “negative” as the one who receives it from the other party.

There is more than one meaning. Of course, the meaning of communication changes depending on the situation.

Of course, it is also said that using words that can be taken to mean various things, even if there is no malicious intent, can lead to misunderstanding.

In other words, depending on the position or situation in which you say, “It was a well-performed tea serving,” it may give a negative impression to the other party.

Conversely, a teacher in a higher position than oneself would not feel uncomfortable saying “It was a well-performed tea serving” to a student whom he or she is teaching.

However, if you are in a situation where there is no such thing as a superior or inferior position, it is recommended that you do not say, “It was a well-performed tea serving,” as it will often have a negative effect on the other party.

Words to say in place of “It was a well-performed tea serving.

So, if you want to tell someone that you appreciate them or that they are wonderful! What kind of words should you use when you want to say “thank you” or “wonderful” to someone?

It is actually very simple.

You can say, “Your tea is very delicious,” or “I enjoyed your tea.

Japanese language is ambiguous, with different messages depending on the meaning received by the receiver.

Japanese is a difficult language even for Japanese. This is because the value of “sensing” the feelings of others is deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

It is considered “good” to try to “understand” without daring to put it into words.

Furthermore, in order not to be rude to the other party, words are used in detail depending on the relationship and position.

For example, there are respectful, humble, and polite words.

Not only that, depending on the time and occasion, the meaning can be completely different.

That is why it is also important these days to choose words in a simple and easy-to-understand way so as not to mislead others.

The ambiguous language of Japanese culture has its own unique values, but these are also changing with the changing times.

One of the solutions is the concept of “Sustainable SDGs”.

Simply put, this is the concept of “sustainable” and “everlasting.

For example, it is a way of thinking and a way of being that does not waste too much resources and takes environmental destruction into consideration so that humanity can continue to live in abundance and happiness.

When you think about it in this way, the tea ceremony is also changing in line with this idea of “Sustainable SDGs,” and in fact, some parts of the tea ceremony will never change.

１：Tea Ceremony Tools that were Sustainable SDGs

Just as Japan has its own unique aesthetic sense of “wabi-sabi,” we can love the beauty of changes over time, whether they are visible or invisible.

This way of thinking would be the opposite of the mass consumption and mass production that existed in the past.

Furthermore, even if a tea utensil is broken, it can be revived by “kintsugi,” or “metal splicing.

Kintsugi is a traditional technique to repair broken or chipped tea utensils by using lacquer.

(*This is an image of the “Kintsugi” process.)

Thus, in traditional Japanese culture, the awareness of treating things with care has taken root.

２：Tea utensils that have become sustainable SDGs

Now, among such tea utensils, there are some that are disposable.

One of them is the confectionery cutter, which is used to cut and eat sweets.

In the past, for hygiene purposes, we used disposable, deodorant, antibacterial, and insecticidal products.

For example, toothpicks for cutting sweets, called kuromoji, used to be a staple in the past. They were made from kuromoji wood, which has a sterilizing effect, and were used and thrown away.

Nowadays, there are stainless steel ones, etc., which can be used over and over again as long as they are kept properly clean.

The Future of the Tea Ceremony and Sustainable SDGs

It is wonderful to be aware of the problems of mass consumption, mass production, and environmental destruction, and to try to improve them.

As the times continue to change, the fundamental wishes and ideas that people seek for happiness and a better life will not change.

In such a situation, I believe that what is required is a transformation in a way that is appropriate for the time and the era.

The form of culture that has been connected to us may change little by little.

However, I would like to continue to convey my wishes for people’s happiness, without shifting the axis and essence of the underlying culture.

The tea ceremony is not only a culture of drinking tea, but also a culture of spirituality, and it teaches us many hints on how to be in a better state of mind.

１：Well-being and Tea Ceremony

In the tea ceremony, it is said that by slowly and carefully concentrating on the tea ceremony, you can achieve something close to a meditative state.

When you concentrate on something and don’t think about anything else, your mind becomes very clear and easy to think about.

The etiquette of the tea ceremony and how to make tea is generally set in stone, but especially when making tea, it is done in silence, so you can concentrate on just that.

This makes it easier to get out of the negative mental loop of “agonizing,” “moping,” and “not feeling well.

２：Zen and Well-being

There is a phrase related to the tea ceremony, “Chazen Ichimi” (tea and Zen are one).

This means that the tea ceremony and Zen have the same underlying idea.

They both share the common teaching of always being aware of the well-being of people.

For example, the Zen phrase “Chisoku Anbun” means to know what is enough and to worry about one’s own portion.

For example, the Zen saying “Chisoku Anbun” means to know what is enough and to be mindful of one’s own portion, because people tend to focus on what they don’t have.

It is said that by being mindful of what is appropriate, one can live a life of happiness and contentment.

３：Matcha and Well-being

Here are some of the benefits and effects of matcha for wellbeing.

Matcha in the tea ceremony is very rich in dietary fiber, and data shows that the antioxidant properties of the catechins in matcha are also very good for the skin.

In addition, catechins are also effective in preventing influenza infection, tooth decay, and allergy symptoms.

Tannin, the astringent component of catechins, inhibits the absorption of fat and has enzymes that break down fat, making it ideal for weight loss.

Matcha also contains a large amount of tannin, which is said to slow down the aging process and prevent the body from oxidizing.

For example, black tea has 1mg, coffee has 2.5mg, while matcha has 100mg. If you drink the whole powder, you can consume it without waste.

In addition, theanine, which is a flavor component, emits alpha waves and has a relaxing effect that calms down excitement and eases tension.

They also contain four to seven times as much vitamin C as oranges, which helps to counteract stress. The abundance of vitamins, catechins, and flavonoids also help prevent bad breath.

Moderate amounts of caffeine can also help reduce fatigue, and the theanine in matcha can improve the quality of your sleep.

If you take matcha tea in a positive manner, you will be able to enjoy all these wonderful benefits.

Tea ceremony can help you to achieve physical and mental wellbeing.

What did you think?

Of course, there are different aspects of well-being, which is “being in a better state of mind,” depending on the person.

However, I think it is easy to find your own well-being from the wide range of elements that the tea ceremony contains.

Please check it out if you are interested.

It means “spending money or time on a hobby.

If that’s the case, then I guess you could say that I am an “otaku consumer” of the tea ceremony (laughs).

(laughs) Of course, such “otaku consumption” has happened many times in the history of the tea ceremony.

Strictly speaking, it may be a little different from the concept of “otaku consumption,” but it is still the same in the sense that people are interested in the tea ceremony and consume and buy various things.

Please enjoy it from the perspective that it is a bit funny.

１：Tea Rooms and Otaku Consumption

Sen no Rikyu emphasized the importance of “simplicity and smallness,” so his tea room is really simple.

However, here is one of the most famous “Geek consumption”.

This is the famous golden tea house. This is a golden teahouse said to have been built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It is an extravagant teahouse with three flat tatami mats decorated with gold everywhere.

I’m sure that not many people would feel at home in this room because of all the surprises.

Nevertheless, this is not a normal tea room architecture, but a luxurious and gorgeous one that was built to show off the power.

２：Tea Ceremony Tools and Otaku Consumption

In the old days, there was a concept among samurai that the amount of tea utensils one owned was a sign of one’s authority.

Especially rare tea utensils were priced so high that people even risked their lives for them.

I’m sure there must have been conversations like “I have such and such” or “I have such and such collection.

３：Tea and Otaku Consumption

There is such a thing as “otaku consumption” in tea. Even today, there is a kind of tea kabuki in which the origin of the tea is appraised.

Once upon a time, a game called “tucha” was popular among the rich and aristocracy.

This was a game to guess the origin of the tea based on the way it was made, its aroma and taste.

It’s fun being an “otaku consumer,” pursuing what you love!

The term “otaku consumption” is one that I personally like a lot.

When you enjoy something you like, it leads to an economy, which in turn enriches the lives of others and creates a culture.

So, do you have “otaku consumption” in your life?