Japanese tea practice begins with a bow. So much mindfulness can be found in that small gesture. The first thing a tea practitioner learns is how to bow. After that, the art of tea unfolds in all its complexity and nuance. This book offers a comprehensive, step-by-step overview of the art of tea. Beginning with the heart, each chapter reveals a distinct aspect of tea, its tradition, function, and ceremony, from the different types of tea and tea utensils, to aspects of the tearoom and tea garden, the formal elements of the ceremony, and seasonal influences. The book also includes a glossary of supplementary information about its photographs and a calendar of tea tastings and events.