Tea ceremony, Kodai-ji Temple grounds

This ceremony is just as quiet, precise and solemn as you have heard. Its significance is something like this: "You, my guest, are so important to me and I respect you so much that I will serve you only the best possible tea, with the utmost care." It is hospitality in its purest and most elaborate form. It took about 30 minutes to complete and eating the soft rice cake "pastries" on the napkins is the first step. The proceedings filled me with awe, peace and gratitude.