Omotesenke Domonkai Autumn Tea Gathering: The Koicha seki was hosted by the Sachiko Okazoe Shachu group at Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Torrance, October 26, 2025. (Photo Courtesy of Omotesenke Domonkai)
Omotesenke Domonkai Autumn Tea Gathering: The entrance was adorned with elegant autumn flowers, and a detailed tea record (Chakaiki) was displayed, allowing guests to learn about the utensils and the seasonal inspiration behind them. (Photo courtesy of Omotesenke Domonkai)
Torrance, CA—Under a gently overcast autumn sky on Sunday, October 26, 2025, the Omotesenke Domonkai Southern California Region welcomed approximately 100 guests to its Annual Autumn Friendship Tea Gathering at the Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Torrance. The event brought together members, families, and friends for a day marked by serenity and camaraderie.
The gathering featured two main tea rooms. The Koicha seki (main tea room), hosted by the Sachiko Okazoe Shachu group, showcased utensils and décor that beautifully captured the essence of autumn. Guests were invited to appreciate the seasonal arrangements and the graceful tea preparation, which fostered a tranquil atmosphere throughout the room.
Omotesenke Domonkai Autumn Tea Gathering: the Usucha room was led by the Yoshiko Ponchar Shachu group at Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Torrance, October 26, 2025. (Photo Courtesy of Omotesenke Domonkai)
Meanwhile, the Usucha (thin tea) room, led by the Yoshiko Ponchar Shachu group, offered a unique experience with tea prepared on a single tatami mat. The intimate setting encouraged deep attentiveness among guests, who also enjoyed elegant autumn floral displays and a detailed tea record (Chakaiki) explaining the seasonal inspiration behind the utensils.
Both morning and afternoon sessions were fully booked, drawing participants from first-time attendees to long-standing members. The meal (Tenshin) room buzzed with lively conversation and warm smiles, highlighting the special bonds fostered by the way of tea.
As interest in Japanese culture continues to grow globally, guests listened attentively to explanations about tea etiquette, the meaning of utensils, and the seasonal themes. The event reinforced Omotesenke Domonkai’s commitment to sharing authentic Japanese cultural experiences and the spirit of “Omotenashi”—the heart of Japanese hospitality.
The chapter looks forward to welcoming more people to future gatherings. For updates and information, visit the Omotesenke Domonkai Southern California Region website or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
Website: https://www.omotesenke-socal.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omotesenke.socal
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/omotesenke.socal.official
