TTLV: Urasenke and the Internationalization of Japanese Tea Ceremony

1. Student's full name: Phạm Thị Nhung                            
2. Gender:Female
3. Date of birth: 16/07/1999
4. Place of birth:Nam Dinh
5. Decision to recognize student number:2279/2022/QD-XHNV dated August 22, 2022 of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi.
6. Changes in the training process:Decision on extending the study period of graduate students, from August 23, 2024 to February 22, 2025: No. 3845/QD-XHNV dated August 1, 2024 of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi.
7. Thesis topic name:Urasenke and the Internationalization of Japanese Tea Ceremony
8. Major:Asian Studies; Code: 8310608.01
9. Scientific instructor:Associate Professor, Dr. Phan Hai Linh - Department of Japanese Studies, Faculty of Oriental Studies, University of Social Sciences and Humanities
10. Summary of thesis results:
The thesis comprehensively summarizes the history, characteristics and internationalization process of Japanese tea ceremony, focusing on the Urasenke sect. From its historical origins to its modern role, Urasenke not only preserves traditional values ​​but also strongly promotes the internationalization process, affirming the position of tea ceremony as an important cultural and diplomatic tool. In Vietnam, the presence of Urasenke Tankokai Hanoi and Ursasenke USSH Tea Ceremony Club is a testament to the spread of tea ceremony, while opening up opportunities for sustainable bilateral cultural and educational cooperation. The thesis is structured into 3 main chapters.
Chapter 1: Overview of Japanese Tea Ceremony
This chapter provides an overview of the history and development of tea, starting with the origin of the tea plant in China, where it was used as a medicinal method and gradually became an indispensable part of cultural life. The tea plant was then introduced to Japan around the 8th century through Zen monks. From here, tea developed into an art imbued with a philosophy of living in harmony, purity and spiritual connection. Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu) began to take shape clearly in the 15th-16th centuries with the contributions of famous tea masters such as Murata Juko, Takeno Joo and especially Sen no Rikyu, who is considered the "father" of tea ceremony. He perfected the philosophy and ritual of tea ceremony based on four basic principles: wa-kei-sei-jaku (harmony-respect-purity-tranquility). This chapter analyzes the similarities and differences between Japanese Tea Ceremony and the tea culture of other countries such as China and Vietnam, emphasizing the role of Tea Ceremony as a unique cultural symbol of Japan.
Chapter 2: Urasenke Tea School
Chapter 2 focuses on the study of the Urasenke school of tea, one of the three largest tea schools in Japan, along with Omotesenke and Mushakoji-senke. Urasenke was founded in the 17th century by the descendants of Sen no Rikyu and has a history of more than 400 years. The characteristic of this tea school is its flexibility in maintaining tradition and expanding the scope of application to suit the times. The wa-kei-sei-jaku philosophy is not only the guiding principle for all activities of Urasenke but is also promoted in the design of tea rooms, in the selection of tea utensils, and the organization of tea ceremonies. Urasenke tea rooms often emphasize simplicity but sophistication, tea utensils are selected according to the season, emphasizing harmony with nature. Urasenke tea ceremonies are not only art but also reflect a philosophy of life, helping participants find balance and peace of mind. In addition, this chapter also analyzes the unique management system of Urasenke, the pioneering role of this tea sect in preserving and promoting traditional cultural values ​​through educational activities and cultural exchanges. The centers and schools established by Urasenke not only teach Teaism but also serve as an important bridge between Japan and other cultures.
Chapter 3: The Internationalization of Urasenke's Tea Ceremony
This chapter analyzes in detail the process of introducing the tea ceremony to the world of the Urasenke sect, focusing on internationalization activities from the mid-twentieth century to the present. Since World War II, Urasenke has made efforts to build and develop branches and clubs globally, from the US, Europe to Asia. This spread is not only to introduce the tea ceremony, but also to promote international cultural and educational exchanges. In Vietnam, Urasenke Tankokai has made significant progress in promoting the tea ceremony, especially through performances, teaching activities, and cooperation with organizations such as the Embassy of Japan and Japanese cultural centers. In addition, the USSH Tea Ceremony Club - the only club in Vietnam recognized by Urasenke - also plays an important role in organizing community events, especially for students. In addition, this chapter also points out the challenges in the internationalization process, such as the balance between adaptation, localization and preserving the originality of Tea Ceremony in the context of globalization; limitations in facilities and teaching staff in the host country. Based on the survey results, this chapter proposes some solutions to improve the effectiveness of the internationalization process while maintaining the appeal and sustainability of Tea Ceremony.
11. Practical application (if any):
The study of Urasenke and the internationalization of Japanese tea ceremony has many practical application values. First of all, this study can contribute to the preservation and promotion of Japanese culture through cultural exchange activities and event organization at educational institutions, cultural organizations, and tea ceremony-loving communities in Vietnam. In addition, the research results provide useful references for teaching programs on Japanese culture at schools or international cultural clubs. In addition, from an economic perspective, activities based on this research can create opportunities for cooperation between enterprises in the fields of tea production, trading, and cultural event organization. At the same time, the study contributes to strengthening diplomatic relations and international cooperation between Japan and Vietnam through promoting common cultural values.
12. Further research directions (if any):
The next research direction after completing the thesis is to focus on specific measures to localize but still preserve the core spirit of the religion when popularizing it abroad, especially in the case of Vietnam.
In addition, a larger-scale questionnaire survey study could provide more accurate quantitative results to assess the impact of the internationalization of tea ceremony on the development of the tea industry and tourism, thereby providing solutions to promote sustainable development in this field.
13. Published works related to the thesis:Are not
 
1. Full name of the candidate: Phạm Thị Nhung
2. Gender:Female
3. Date of birth:July 16, 1999
4. Place of birth:Nam Dinh
5. Admission decision number:2279/2022/QD-XHNV dated August 22, 2022 of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Hanoi National University.
6. Changes during the training process:Decision on extending the study time of graduate students, from August 23, 2024 to February 22, 2025: No. 3845/QD-XHNV dated August 1, 2024 of the University Social Sciences and Humanities, Hanoi National University.
7. Thesis title:Urasenke and the Internationalization of Japanese Tea Ceremony
8. Major:Asian Studies; Code: 8310608.01
9. Academic advisor:Associate ProfessorDr. Phan Hai Linh – Department of Japanese Studies, Faculty of Oriental Studies, University of Social Sciences and Humanities.
10. Summary of the results of the thesis
The thesis provides a comprehensive overview of the history, characteristics, and development of the Japanese tea ceremony, with a particular focus on the Urasenke school. From its historical origins to its contemporary role, Urasenke not only preserves traditional values ​​but also actively promotes the process of internationalization, solidifying the position of the tea ceremony as an important cultural and diplomatic tool. In Vietnam, the presence of Urasenke Tankokai Hanoi and USSH serves as evidence of the spread of the tea ceremony, while opening opportunities for sustainable cultural and educational cooperation. The thesis composed of three chapters as follows.
Chapter 1: An Overview of the Japanese Tea Ceremony
This chapter outlines the history and evolution of tea, starting with the origins of the tea plant in China, where tea was initially used as a medicinal remedy before becoming an integral part of cultural life. The tea plant was introduced to Japan around the 8th century by Buddhist monks, along with Zen Buddhism. From there, tea developed into an art form embodying philosophies of harmony, tranquility, and spiritual connection. The Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu) began to take shape in the 15th and 16th centuries, influenced by famous tea masters such as Murata Juko, Takeno Joo, and especially Sen no Rikyu, who is considered as the “father” of the tea ceremony. He perfected the philosophy and ritual of the tea ceremony based on the four core principles of wa-kei-sei-jaku (harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility). This chapter also analyzes the similarities and differences between the Japanese tea ceremony and tea cultures in other countries, such as China and Vietnam, emphasizing the role of Chado as a distinctive cultural symbol of Japan.
Chapter 2: The Urasenke School
This chapter focuses on the Urasenke school, one of the three major schools of tea in Japan, alongside Omotesenke and Mushakoji-senke. Urasenke was founded in the 17th century by the descendants of Sen no Rikyu and has a history spanning over 400 years. The defining feature of Urasenke lies in its flexibility to maintain tradition while expanding its application to fit modern times. The principles of wa-kei-sei-jaku continue to guide every activity within Urasenke, reflected in the design of tea rooms, the selection of tea utensils, and the organization of tea ceremonies. Urasenke tea rooms emphasize simplicity and elegance, with utensils chosen according to the seasons to harmonize with nature. The tea ceremonies of Urasenke are not merely artistic expressions but also a reflection of a philosophy that encourages balance and serenity. Additionally, this chapter highlights Urasenke's role in preserving and promoting traditional cultural values, particularly through its educational and cultural exchange activities. The centers and schools established by Urasenke not only teach the tea ceremony but also act as important bridges between Japan and other cultures.
Chapter 3: The Internationalization of Chado by Urasenke
This chapter examines the process of spreading the tea ceremony worldwide by Urasenke, focusing on its internationalization efforts from the mid-20th century to the present. After World War II, Urasenke made significant efforts to establish branches and clubs around the world, including in the United States, Europe, and Asia. This expansion aims not only to introduce Chado globally but also to foster cultural and educational exchanges. In Vietnam, Urasenke Tankokai has made notable progress in promoting the tea ceremony, particularly through performances, teaching, and collaborations with organizations such as the Japanese Embassy and Japanese cultural centers. Large events, such as cultural exhibitions and international exchanges, have contributed to increasing awareness and interest in the tea ceremony among the Vietnamese public. However, this chapter also addresses the challenges of internationalization, including the adaptation to different cultures, maintaining the authenticity of Chado in the context of globalization, and the limitations in infrastructure and local teaching staff. To overcome these challenges, Urasenke has proposed solutions, such as establishing more training centers, training local instructors, and organizing international events to sustain the interest and ensure the longevity of the tea ceremony.
11. Practical Applications (if any):
The research on Urasenke and the internationalization of the Japanese tea ceremony provides significant practical value. Firstly, it contributes to the preservation and promotion of Japanese culture through cultural exchange activities and events organized at educational institutions, cultural organizations, and tea ceremony enthusiasts' communities in Vietnam. Additionally, the findings offer valuable reference materials for teaching Japanese culture in schools or at international cultural clubs. From an economic perspective, activities derived from this research can create opportunities for collaboration between enterprises in tea production, business, and cultural event organization. Furthermore, the study strengthens diplomatic relations and international cooperation between Japan and Vietnam by promoting shared cultural values.
12. Future research directions (if any):
Another potential research direction could explore measures to preserve the authenticity of tea ceremonies when introduced abroad, especially in culturally distinct environments.
Finally, quantitative studies based on a larger questionnaire survey are necessary to assess the impact of the globalization of tea ceremonies on the growth of the tea and tourism industries, thereby considering solutions to foster sustainable development in these sectors.
13. Related Publications:None