Photo credit: Janice Chan

What is Senchadō 煎茶道 ? An Introduction to Japanese Loose-leaf Tea Ceremony

Date: Sunday November 10, 2024

Time: 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Location: SaBi Tea Arts on 16th at Dunbar

Session Fee: $35

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When people think of Japanese tea ceremony, they often picture the preparation of matcha in the traditional practice known as sadō (茶道) or chanoyu (茶の湯). But there is another rich tradition in Japanese tea culture: Senchadō (煎茶道), the Way of Sencha.

Originating during the Edo period, Senchadō featured loose-leaf tea and was deeply influenced by Chinese tea practices from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Once a favourite among the literati, this art form saw a decline after the Meiji period and remains lesser-known today—even in Japan.

In this lecture-demonstration, Janice Chan, a dedicated student of the Senchadō Oubaku-Baisa Ryu school, will take you on a visual journey through tea culture during the Edo period, highlighting the influences that shaped Senchadō. Enjoy a cup of tea as she shares her experiences participating in Senchadō ceremonies at Manpuku-ji Temple as well as performs a brief demonstration.

About the Educator:

Janice (Jan) Chan is the Global Japanese Tea Association (GJTA) representative for Western Canada and co-founder of Teakan. As a GJTA-certified Japanese Tea Master, Jan offers workshops and lectures that blend tradition with modern insights, sharing the history, practices, and unique experiences of Japanese tea culture. Her passion for Japanese tea has led her to immerse herself in its rich culture, practicing Chanoyu with the Urasenke School and studying Senchadō under the Oubaku-Baisa Ryu.

About Oubaku-Baisa Ryu 煎茶道 黄檗売茶流

Senchadō Oubaku-Baisa Ryu (煎茶道 黄檗売茶流) was founded by Tsūsen’an Tatsudō (1908-1958) and the style was developed from the tea ceremony at Ōbakusan Manpukuji Temple in Uji, Kyoto. Led by third-generation Tsūsen’an Takanori since 2019, the school aims to cultivate “an aesthetic sense” that evolves with time, leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves and finding beauty and pleasures in our everyday lives. Oubaku-Baisa Ryu has been a member of the All Japan Senchadō Federation since its inception and has continued to work to popularize and develop Senchadō to this day.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia.

Image: Offering stand with Chikiribana flowers (detail), hanging scroll by Gotōda Nankei, 1855

Origins of Ikebana

Part of the “Deep Dives with Dōjin Arts” lecture/demonstration series

Date: Sunday November 3, 2024

Time: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Location: The Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre

Session Fee: $25

Join Dōjin Arts on November 3rd as we celebrate Bunka no Hi 文化の日 Culture Day – a public holiday in Japan to celebrate traditional Japanese culture. This year we will be marking the occasion with a Deep Dive into the art of Ikebana – its history, its people, and its cultural treasures.

Image: Bun’ami kadensho (handscroll detail), Muromachi period, 14th-16th century, Rokuōin Temple, Kyoto

The program will begin with a slide lecture tracing the history of floral arrangements as they developed from early ritual offerings to formal displays at the court of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa in the late 15th century. Our Executive Director, Maiko Behr, will present a fascinating collection of images from ancient illustrated instruction manuals as well as photographs of treasured cultural properties demonstrating the deep connections between the evolving art of Ikebana (kadō) and its sister arts of tea (sadō) and incense (kōdō) as they took shape amidst the growing influence of Zen Buddhist philosophy and aesthetics.

Image: Cecily Chang, Senior Professor of Ikebana, Ikenobo School.

The slide lecture will be followed by a live ikebana demonstration showcasing three “standing flower” forms – early Tatehana, traditional-form Rikka, and new-form Rikka – by Cecily Chang of the Ikenobo school, the oldest school of ikebana and a lineage that was formalized during this seminal period in Japanese cultural history.  

This program is perfect for anyone interested in ikebana and/or the major Zen-influenced arts that flourished during the Muromachi period. 

We hope you will join us in this floral celebration of Bunka no Hi 文化の日 Culture Day!

About the Educators:

Maiko Behr has worked as a Japanese to English translator, curator, and consultant specializing in Japanese arts for over twenty years. She is the owner of SaBi Tea Arts, where she teaches chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony) in the Omotesenke tradition and kōdō (Japanese incense ceremony) in the Senzan Goryū tradition. In the non-profit sector, Maiko has served locally on the board of directors of the Tomoe Arts Society for over ten years, and has worked and volunteered for various Japanese and Asian arts-related non-profit associations, museums, and private collections in Canada and the US. 

Cecily Chang is a senior Professor of Ikebana, Ikenobo School. She has studied Ikebana for more than 40 years and has been teaching since 1995. She specializes in Japanese flower arrangement (Ikebana) and custom floral pieces for weddings and special events. Cecily was the Vice President of the Vancouver Ikebana Association in 2006/2007 & 2018/2019; and President for the 2008/2009, 2020/2021 seasons. She has been the President of Ikenobo Ikebana Society of Vancouver since 2020.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia.

Tiny Hand-stitched Treasures : Learn to Make Kaga Yubinuki (Traditional Japanese Thimble Rings)

Date: Sunday October 27, 2024

Time: 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Location: SaBi Tea Arts, on 16th Avenue at Dunbar in Vancouver

Workshop Fee: $45 (includes all supplies for making two unique yubinuki)

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Explore the colourful world of Kaga Yubinuki (traditional thimbles from the Kaga region of Japan) as you learn to make your own tiny hand-stitched treasures ahead of the holiday gifting season! 

In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the basics of how to create their first yubinuki. All supplies will be provided as you are guided through the entire process: from making a mandrel, to building a core, and then learning the simple stitching required to complete an easy, single-colour thimble. Participants will also receive supplies for a second, two-colour yubinuki and the knowledge to continue exploring more advanced designs at home. 

Whether intended as a sewing accessory, fashion piece, or simply a beautiful little treasure, yubinuki make excellent gifts (for yourself or someone else) and we hope you will enjoy learning this traditional craft with us!

Basic hand-sewing experience is helpful but not required. 

Image credit: Moira Fentum

About Yubinuki:

Ever since sewing became a way of making clothing, people have invented tools to make the task easier and more pleasant.  Kaga yubinuki are one of the most beautiful of these practical tools.

The word yubinuki (Yubi 指– finger, Nuku 貫 – to pierce) refers to any sewing thimble, whether it is made of metal, leather or fabric, but Kaga yubinuki are a particular regional style of highly decorative stitched thimble.

Originating in Kaga Province (now partly Kanazawa, Ishikawa prefecture) during the Edo period, Kaga yubinuki were created from very simple materials used while stitching kimono: paper, leftover sewing threads, and silk floss used to pad the hem of the kimono.

Unlike Western-style thimbles worn over the tip of the finger, wasai (traditional Japanese sewing) thimbles are a ring worn around the middle finger between the knuckles.  The network of stitched threads of the Kaga yubinuki securely hold the end of the needle as the user stitches. 

Not Just for Sewing!

Image credit: Moira Fentum

Over time, the designs of Kaga yubinuki became more and more elaborate. Today, a wide range of colourful, intricate designs are available using the same simple materials: thread and paper. However, as fewer people sew Japanese style, nowadays yubinuki are often worn as jewellery: a beautiful ring, a pendant hung from a chain or looped on an earring.  They can also be used to decorate key chains, tassels and cell phone charms. Your imagination is the limit!

About the Educator:

Moira Fentum is a professional costumer in Vancouver working in the film and theatre industry for nearly 20 years. A longtime interest in Japanese textiles has led her down a path of history, fabric, and art that neatly dovetails with her professional skills. Recently, all of these skills and interests combined as she was part of the costume team for the Vancouver-shot FX / Disney limited series Shōgun.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia.

The Art of Kintsugi: History and Techniques of the Japanese Art of Ceramic Repair

Date: Sunday October 6, 2024

Time: 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Location: Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre

Session Fee: $20

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Join Dōjin Arts for a Deep Dive into the art of Kintsugi - the traditional Japanese craft of repairing broken ceramics with lacquer and powdered precious metals.

This live program is for anyone interested in learning about the history, aesthetics, and techniques of kintsugi. The lecture/demonstration format will provide both an enlightening introduction for those new to the art form and a richer context and background for those who may have already tried their hand at this popular method of ceramic repair. 

The program will begin with an engaging visual slide lecture presented by Maiko Behr examining the historical development of the Japanese tradition of ceramic repair. Examining famous artworks, from Song-dynasty China to the modern day, with a focus on Japanese works of the 16th to 19th centuries, the lecture will trace the evolution of the art of kintsugi through a variety of techniques and aesthetic perspectives.

Following the slide lecture, Yuka Morino of Three Little Spruce will explain the various techniques and tools used in contemporary kintsugi craft, including different types of lacquer and mixing materials, tools, and practical techniques. She will bring examples of these materials and tools to show as she explains the technical intricacies of the traditional craft. Those who have participated in Yuka's hands-on workshops will find that a closer look at the traditional materials and tools that are used in kintsugi will offer an even deeper appreciation of the craft.

Note: This is not a hands-on workshop for learning to repair ceramics yourself using the kintsugi technique. Please see Yuka’s other workshops at Nikkei Centre for hands-on instruction in this art form.

This program is the first of our "Deep Dives with Dōjin Arts," a series of engaging programming designed to offer participants context for a deeper understanding and appreciation of traditional Japanese arts. Each program in the series delves into the history, cultural significance, and techniques behind various Japanese art forms, from ceramics and incense to tea traditions, flower arrangement, and beyond. Whether you are an art enthusiast, cultural scholar, or simply interested in deepening your understanding of Japanese art traditions, we hope that you will join us!

About The Educators:

Maiko Behr has worked as a Japanese to English translator, curator, and consultant specializing in Japanese arts for over twenty years. She is the owner of SaBi Tea Arts, where she teaches chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony) in the Omotesenke tradition and kōdō (Japanese incense ceremony) in the Senzan Goryū tradition. In the non-profit sector, Maiko has served locally on the board of directors of the Tomoe Arts Society for over ten years, and has worked and volunteered for various Japanese and Asian arts-related non-profit associations and museums in Canada and the US. 

Yuka Morino, an artist who runs Three Little Spruce, grew up in Kyoto, Japan. Her grandmother played a big role in shaping her appreciation for ceramics by collecting pieces from various artists. When one of her grandmother's prized collections broke, Yuka discovered the art of Kintsugi and started mending broken pottery while studying architectural design at Kyoto University of the Arts. Yuka now lives on Quadra Island, B.C., and offers repair services for ceramics. In her jewelry designs, she applies ancient Japanese craftsmanship, using a combination of 金彩 (Kindami, a gold application technique) and 金継ぎ (Kintsugi, mending broken ceramics).

We acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia.

This participatory workshop will introduce Nihon Buyō traditional Japanese dance, a storytelling form of dance that grew out of narrative theatre. Hear about the history and aesthetics of this dance form and learn distinctive techniques such as hand and head movements, held poses (mie), walking mechanics, gender conventions, and prop handling (folding fans) that are used to define characters for the kabuki stage. Master instructor HANAYAGI Toshikotono (Mamie Kakimoto) will also demonstrate and perform sample pieces incorporating a range of these techniques.

No experience is necessary; this workshop is open to beginners as well as those with previous experience.

Date: Sunday July 21

Time: 11:00am - 12:30pm

Location: The Dance Centre - Marcuse Studio 7th floor

Session Price: $45

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About the Instructor:

HANAYAGI Toshikotono sensei began dancing at age two in Tokyo, Japan, under HANAYAGI Shizutoshi. She earned her professional name at age 16 and her teaching license when she was 26. She has performed at the National Theatre of Japan multiple times, as well as dancing overseas in Paris. She currently performs and teaches private lessons and small group classes in Vancouver, where her students perform at various community festivals under the name Tomoe Kai.

You can watch a video of Hanayagi Toshikotono dancing Kyōkanoko Musume Dōjōji below:

We gratefully acknowledge support from the Community Fund of the Japanese Canadian Legacies Society.

Step back in time with us as we host an intimate Japanese tea ceremony in the historic Roedde House parlour.

Although the practice of preparing tea for guests integrating Zen aesthetics and following carefully prescribed movements and protocols dates back more than 450 years, the forms are constantly evolving to suit the times. As traditional matcha tea is served at a modern-era tea table, longtime tea ceremony practitioner and instructor Maiko Behr will provide a general introduction to the Japanese tea ceremony with additional attention to the period of the encounter between East and West at the turn of the 20th century, contemporary with Roedde House. Join us for a glimpse at this interesting historical moment when traditional arts were adapting to the modern world.

Matcha (stone-milled green tea) and a traditional Japanese sweet* by Saki will be served.

Register and purchase tickets through Roedde House:

*Note: Sweets may contain beans, sugar, rice powder, and agar jelly. If you have dietary concerns, please contact us in advance. Due to the nature of the program, substitutions may not be possible.

About the Roedde House Museum:

Roedde House was built in 1893 for the family of Gustav Roedde and his family. The house was designed by architect Francis Rattenbury, and the family lived in the home from 1893 to 1920. The museum reflects the family's time in the house during the 1890s and early 1900s.

About the Educator:

Dōjin Arts Founder and Executive Director Maiko Behr has worked as a Japanese to English translator, curator, and consultant specializing in Japanese arts for over twenty years. She is the owner of SaBi Tea Arts, where she teaches chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony) in the Omotesenke tradition and kōdō (Japanese incense ceremony) in the Senzan Goryū tradition. In the non-profit sector, Maiko has served locally on the board of directors of the Tomoe Arts Society for over ten years, and has worked and volunteered for various Japanese and Asian arts-related non-profit associations and museums in Canada and the US. 

We gratefully acknowledge support from the Community Fund of the Japanese Canadian Legacies Society.

Learn about the art and history of Japanese blended incense before making your own batch of nerikō to enjoy at home.

Since the Heian period (794-1192), fragrant powdered ingredients were mixed with honey or plum flesh and kneaded into round pastilles know as nerikō. This form of incense is indirectly heated rather than burned to release aroma - ideal for smaller spaces and individuals sensitive to smoke.

During this 90-minute, hands-on workshop, guests will learn about the significance of nerikō and its use throughout Japanese history before getting their hands dirty blending and rolling their own incense to take home. All supplies and equipment will be provided. Participants will choose between Baika 梅花 (Plum Blossom) and Zuiun 瑞雲 (Auspicious Clouds), two specially formulated recipes crafted by the Senzan Goryū school of Kōdō (incense ceremony) in Kyoto, Japan.

Workshop $38 (materials included)

Join us for a lecture/demonstration on festival music — Edo Bayashi — and dance — Kotobuki Jishi celebratory lion dance — with Portland-based musician and educator Eien Hunter-Ishikawa.

The intimate salon-style setting of this program will offer the chance to experience the music and dance of the celebratory Shishimai lion dance up-close and to learn about the history and meaning behind this Intangible Cultural Asset of Folk Art from one of the rare experts in the field.

Eien is the founder of the Portland Shishimai Kai. He started learning Edo Kotobuki Jishi in 2001 under the instruction of Kenny Endo, continuing on to study with Kyosuke Suzuki, a longtime member of Wakayama Shachu (Nationally Designated Important Intangible Cultural Asset of Folk Arts). Eien is a certified instructor of all four parts - music and dance - of Wakayama Ryu Edo Kotobuki Jishi. Eien is also a gifted musician and composer on a variety of traditional Japanese instruments, especially taiko and shinobue flute.

Tickets: $45

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Dōjin Arts is pleased to present an opportunity to enjoy an exhibition of ikebana arrangements by members of the Sogetsu Vancouver Branch (Sogetsu School of Ikebana) set in an authentic traditional Japanese tearoom. 

Please join us for a bowl of matcha and traditional sweet as we celebrate these sister art forms that flourished under the influence of Zen Buddhist aesthetics and philosophy during the Higashiyama era (late 15th century). Members of Dōjin Arts and the Sogetsu School of Ikebana will be available to chat and answer any questions. 

This will be a relaxed, open house setting, not a formal tea service. Donations in support of The Dōjin Japanese Arts Society are welcomed.

We look forward to collaborating with members of Sogetsu Vancouver to bring our communities together around the founding of The Dōjin Japanese Arts Society 同仁文化会.