Yobanashi is held on a winter night with only paper lanterns and candles for light. It is the form in which darkness and the presence of fire are attended to most closely, and it feels entirely unlike a daylight gathering. The hearth becomes the visual centre of the room.
When it is held
From November through February, with guests entering at dusk. They cross a dark garden guided by a hand candle. Beginning at sunset means the contrast of light and dark deepens through the gathering, and that progression is itself the composition.
What distinguishes it
The meal is taken under soft lantern light; charcoal and lamp together make the room's landscape. Scroll and utensils must be chosen to read in near-darkness, which rules out much that works in daylight. Distinct procedures attach to handling light, including examining utensils by hand candle. Every gesture involving a flame carries added attention.
Sources
- 夜咄（世界大百科事典「茶事」項） / コトバンク
Supports: 夜咄が夜会であり、今日では冬季に限られ、厳寒の風趣が主題となること
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.
Term info
- Category
- Etiquette
Related terms
- Ro (sunken hearth)ro
A hearth cut into the floor mats, used from November to April, that brings the fire close to the guests.
- Fuyu no dogudate (winter arrangements)fuyu no dogudate
Arrangements from the hearth-opening to the deep cold — cylindrical bowls, large kettles, warm colours — built to convey warmth.