[Photo credit: Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden]
With a rich history dating back to its inception in spring 2017, the event promises a delightful exploration of tea culture amid the tranquil beauty of the Japanese garden.
Since its inception, the Festival of Tea has become a cherished tradition in the city and has been drawing visitors from near and far to immerse themselves in the art and flavors of tea. From its humble beginnings, the festival has evolved into a celebrated occasion, offering an array of experiences for attendees.
At the heart of the festival, the Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden is a picturesque setting that provides the perfect backdrop for tea enthusiasts to indulge their senses. Against lush greenery and blooming flora, visitors will have the opportunity to engage with local tea vendors, including Kettl, known for its Japanese tea, and JT & T, offering teas from Taiwan.
The organizers have arranged activities and experiences designed to captivate guests of all ages. Ceramic artist Julie Bagish will showcase her exquisite Japanese-style tea ceremony wares, while the garden’s gift shop, Takara-ten, will offer an array of antique and vintage items, including a special sale of vintage kimonos.
Traditional tea ceremony demonstrations will be held in the garden’s Japanese Niko-an teahouse for those seeking a deeper immersion into Japanese tea culture. Led by tea practitioner Mikko Nakatomi, these demonstrations offer a rare glimpse into the time-honored rituals and traditions of Japanese tea ceremonies.
The festival also features a lineup of engaging presentations by tea specialists, with topics ranging from classic Japanese teas to adventures in tea and ceramics. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample teas from different traditions and learn from experts in the field.
Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., guests can stroll among the camellias, azaleas, and fragrant plants that adorn the garden, and bask in the beauty of spring as it unfolds.
Originally designed in the late 1930s by Kinzuchi Fujii and recently restored by Dr. Takeo Uesugi, the garden holds a cherished place on the National Register of Historic Places and is listed as a California Historical Landmark. Dr. Uesegi also worked closely with the current owners, Jim and Connie Haddad, to restore the teahouse in the garden, faithfully adhering to Kinzuchi’s original drawings, photographs and architectural plans.
The teahouse is closed except for tea ceremonies and special events, such as the Festival of Tea in May.
Registration for the festival is open until May 5, the day before the Festival of Tea, with walk-ins accepted as space allows. Admission includes a tasting cup, with additional cups available for purchase. Children aged 12 and under receive free admission, while the garden remains wheelchair accessible.
For more information about the Garden and registration procedures, visit http://www.japanesegardenpasadena.com/index.html.
