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Preserving and sharing traditions

One of the many tea rooms of Sentei

During today we got to witness another glimpse of the Japanese traditional culture. We were invited to join a tea ceremony organized by students at the Sentei restaurant. Afterwards we got to ask questions regarding the art of tea and its history.

In the evening Sentei receieved guests who were kind enough to let our Hanako-network trainees observe and even participate in the formalities of the dinner. In this traditional context the Japanese are very precise about presentation, service and taste. It is obvious to see what an important role traditions play in the culture.

Precise sashimi cutting

Traditions could be described as roots. If you cut the roots you will quickly lose the rest. In a cultural context losing traditions would mean losing at least a part of your identity as well. Of course not every Japanese person knows every tradition by heart, but it is important to see people preserving, valuing and respecting this unique heritage. In this day and age people are quick to regard these things as old fashioned and cut them out of their busy lives. However today we learned how important it is to take time, no matter how hectic your everyday life is, to return to your roots.

Traditional cooking equipment


In order to be proud of what we are we need to be proud of what our ancestors have achieved, and carry this legacy on to our children. Even if it might seem as time consuming and complicated as the tea ceremony or the proper way to wear a kimono.

For us today was a once in a lifetime experience, and for many people experiencing this kind of hospitality may never be possible to experience. There are no words to accurately describe how grateful we are, and what a fun time we had. We would never have guessed that the trainees would be able to practise their future jobs in the presence of such prestigious customers and a traditional environment - naturally also following the traditional customs of service in Japan. This will be something extremely valuable for us all.

Wearing the tight obi belt around the stomach made it difficult to finish all of the lovely dinner offered to us by the restaurant though! (;

Sentei personnel and trainees



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