Josei chado refers to the tea culture in which women are central, a development of the Meiji period onward and an important aspect of tea history. That women form the majority of practitioners today is a result of Meiji-period girls' education.
History
Tea was taken into girls' education in the Meiji period and spread as a form of social accomplishment, cultivation, and preparation for marriage. The social position of the practice shifted decisively, from the male-dominated warrior-class tea of the early modern period to the female-majority practice of the modern era.
Present state
Most participants at lessons and gatherings are women, and there are many women holding senior certificates and teaching positions within the iemoto system.
Why this correction matters
Accounts in English often present tea practice as a historically feminine art. Through the Momoyama and Edo periods it was overwhelmingly the domain of warriors, merchants, and monks — all men. The present composition is roughly a century old.
About this article
Edited by the operator of Chaen (a one-person operation) / Last updated:
Tea ceremony descriptions can vary by school and source. Where interpretations differ, this glossary avoids definitive claims and focuses on broadly shared understandings. If you notice an error, please let us know viaContact. To learn about our organization, seeAbout Chaen.
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Related terms
- Modern tea (Meiji onward)kindai cha
Tea practice from the Meiji period, reshaped by the collapse of warrior patronage, new collectors, and women's participation.
- Gakko chado (tea practice in schools)gakko chado
Tea practice conducted within school education; for many Japanese practitioners the first encounter with tea.
- Chanoyuchanoyu
The older and more practice-oriented name for Japanese tea culture, beside the more inward-sounding chado.
- Chado (The Way of Tea)chado
The Japanese practice of preparing and serving powdered green tea, treated as a lifelong discipline rather than a beverage ritual.