The Japanese tea ceremony also reflects the ancient Japanese concept of hygiene.

The pursuit of cleanliness in the tea ceremony symbolizes not only physical cleanliness, but also purity of mind.

For example, the use of disposable hygiene items such as the kuromoji toothpick and the thorough cleaning of the tea room demonstrate the high level of hygiene awareness of the Japanese people, as well as the culture’s pursuit of spiritual cleanliness. This act of “purification” reflects the uniquely Japanese concept of not only maintaining physical health, but also purifying the mind.

Studying the tea ceremony is an excellent opportunity to gain an experiential understanding of this traditional Japanese concept of hygiene and spiritual culture. In a clean space, we enjoy a cup of tea with a pure heart. In the process, we can experience the depth of Japanese culture and gain hints on how to lead a life that is rich in both mind and body.

There are long historical and cultural factors behind the close connection between the Japanese concept of hygiene and the tea ceremony.

First, Japan has a hot and humid climate, and has long struggled with food spoilage and the spread of disease. This environment has contributed to the Japanese awareness of hygiene.

For example, churomoji, used for toothpicks, is said to have been effective in sterilizing.

One of the reasons why the tea ceremony is so deeply connected to the concept of hygiene and spirituality is because it incorporates Buddhist, particularly Zen, thought.

In Zen Buddhism, the concept of “cleanliness” is of great importance. This means not just physical cleanliness, but also purity of mind. In Zen teaching, external cleanliness is an expression of internal cleanliness, and vice versa. In other words, keeping the environment clean is also an act of purifying the mind.

The tea ceremony deeply incorporates this Zen concept. For example, the act of cleaning a tea room is not only for hygienic reasons, but also as part of the practice of preparing the mind. By cleaning the tearoom, one is simultaneously cleaning one’s mind.

Thus, the connection between the concept of hygiene and spirituality in the tea ceremony is due to its deep incorporation of Zen philosophy. The act of preparing tea in a clean environment and with a pure heart embodies the teachings of Zen. This act itself embodies the teachings of Zen.