The Japanese Tea Ceremony

Wa • Kei • Sei • Jaku
Harmony • Respect • Purity • Tranquility

The Japanese Tea Ceremony, known as Chadō, or “the Way of Tea,” grew over centuries from tea traditions brought from China to Japan. Influenced by Zen Buddhism and shaped by tea masters such as Sen no Rikyū in the sixteenth century, it became an art of hospitality, mindful attention, and connection. Preparing and sharing a bowl of tea invites people to slow down and appreciate their time together.

Creator Tess Cacciatore researched the Japanese Tea Ceremony and drew inspiration from its traditions and the meaning of each principle to create Yumi’s animal friends. Holly represents Harmony, Ravi represents Respect, Zuri represents Purity, and Seren represents Tranquility. By choosing animals children love, connected to different parts of the world and their cultures, Tess brings these timeless values to life through friendship, discovery, and adventure.