advertise
Vanislander / Festivals and Events / A Japanese Tea Ceremony at the Royal BC Museum

A Japanese Tea Ceremony at the Royal BC Museum

Experience the Art of Tranquility
Step into a world where every gesture tells a story and every sip carries centuries of tradition. On May 17, 2025, the Royal BC Museum’s stately Conference Hall will transform into a sanctuary of serene ritual as members of the Urasenke Tankokai Victoria Association guide you through the Japanese tea ceremony—an immersive experience that marries art, history, and mindfulness. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or simply seeking a moment of calm, this free event offers a rare glimpse into Chado, “the way of tea,” and its four guiding principles: harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.
Read on for everything you need to plan your visit, from schedule details to insider tips on making the most of this unforgettable cultural journey.

More

Less


Event Overview

What: Demonstrations of the Japanese Tea Ceremony (Chado – The Way of Tea) by Urasenke Tankokai Victoria Association
When: Saturday, May 17, 2025
• First Performance: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Second Performance: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: Conference Hall, Royal BC Museum, 675 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC V8W 9W2
Cost: Free admission to the ceremony (museum gallery entry fees apply separately)

What Is Chado?

Chado, commonly known as the Japanese Tea Ceremony, is more than a culinary ritual—it’s a spiritual and aesthetic discipline designed to refine the self through precise movements and mindful hospitality. Rooted in Zen Buddhism, the ceremony embodies four principles:
1. Wa (Harmony): Fostering unity between host, guest, and environment.
2. Kei (Respect): Honouring every element and participant.
3. Sei (Purity): Cleansing both the utensils and the mind.
4. Jaku (Tranquility): Achieving serene stillness after the ritual.

Venue & Accessibility

The Conference Hall on the museum’s main floor provides an intimate setting for the tea ceremony, complete with traditional tatami mats and an authentic tearoom layout. The Royal BC Museum is fully accessible, with wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible washrooms ﹘ please contact the museum in advance for any special accommodations.

Schedule & Format

1. Opening Welcome (5 min)
2. Utensil Presentation (10 min): Hosts introduce tea wares and explain their significance.
3. Tea Preparation (20 min): A step-by-step demonstration of tea whisking and serving.
4. Guest Participation (20 min): Visitors may taste matcha tea and observe the etiquette firsthand.
5. Closing Reflection (5 min): Hosts share insights and answer questions.

Tickets & Museum Admission

Your Adventure Starts with Vancouver Island Tours

3 Day Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Tour

Salish Sea Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Adventure
Group
Victoria
from 550
3 days and 2 nights
3 Day Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Tour

Vancouver Island Wildlife watching Tour

Explore Whales, Bears & Coastal Rainforests
Group
Victoria
Tofino
from 750
3 nights and 4 days
Vancouver Island Wildlife watching  Tour

Vancouver Island Getaway Tour

5-Day Tour from Victoria to Tofino with Nanaimo
Group
Victoria
Vancouver Island
from 2,100
6 days and 5 nights
Vancouver Island Getaway Tour

4-Day Wildlife Watching on Vancouver Island

Pacific Rim & Clayoquot Sound Adventure
Group
Nanaimo
Tofino
from 1,897
4 days and 3 nights
4-Day Wildlife Watching on Vancouver Island

7-Day Vancouver Island Wildlife Watching Adventure Tour

Your 7-Day Wildlife Watching Escape
Group
Victoria
Vancouver Island
from 2,310
7 days and 6 nights
7-Day Vancouver Island Wildlife Watching Adventure Tour

Fly Fishing Tour on Vancouver Island

Fly-Fishing Paradise on the Gold River
Group
Campbell River
Gold River BC
from 1,400
1 day
Fly Fishing Tour on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island Fishing Charters Tour

One-Day Chinook Salmon & Halibut Adventure Tour
Group
Victoria
Sooke
from 1,140
2 days and one night
Vancouver Island Fishing Charters Tour

Ultimate Vancouver Island Wildlife Experience

6-day Black Bear Wildlife Adventure Tour
Group
Nanaimo
Vancouver Island
from 1,950
6 days and 5 nights
Ultimate Vancouver Island Wildlife Experience

Port Renfrew Bottom Fishing Tour

Guided Fishing Adventure Tour on Port Renfrew Vancouver Island
Group
Victoria
Port Renfrew
from 1,475
3 days and 2 nights
Port Renfrew Bottom Fishing Tour

Black Bear Tracking & Salmon Run Adventure Tour

5-Day Black Bear Tracking Adventure on Vancouver Island
Group
Nanaimo
Nanaimo
from 1,135
5 days and 4 nights
Black Bear Tracking & Salmon Run Adventure Tour

A 3 Day Whale Watching Tour On Vancouver Island

Your three Day Victoria Whale Watching Getaway on Vancouver Island
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,138
3 days and 2 night
 A 3 Day Whale Watching Tour On Vancouver Island

Victoria Kayak Fishing Adventure Tour

Explore Inner Harbour & Catch Inshore Fish
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,000
2 days and one night
Victoria Kayak Fishing Adventure Tour

Ultimate 7-Day Vancouver Island Escape Tour

Wildlife, Beaches & Coastal Adventure
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,813
7 days and 6 nights
Ultimate 7-Day Vancouver Island Escape Tour

5-Day Vancouver Island Tour Package

Coastal Wonders & Wildlife Adventure
Group
Victoria
from 700
5 days and 4 nights
5-Day Vancouver Island Tour Package
Disclaimer
Vanislander provides information for general reference only. We do not assume responsibility for any changes, cancellations, or modifications made by third parties. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official websites or social media channels of the respective organizers or businesses.

Getting There & Parking

• By Bus: Routes #3, #14, and #19 stop near Belleville Street.
• By Car: Limited parking at the museum; nearby paid lots on Government Street and Humboldt Street.
• Biking & Walking: Secure bike racks available; scenic stroll from downtown Victoria (approx. 15 minutes).

Nearby Accommodation

• The Magnolia Hotel & Spa (801 Douglas St): Luxurious suites and spa services, 600 m from the museum.
• Hotel Rialto (654 Johnson St): Boutique charm with complimentary wine reception, 450 m away.
• Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour (728 Humboldt St): Waterfront views and modern amenities, 300 m from the venue.

Other Victoria Day Events

Insider Tips for Visitors

Arrive Early

Doors open 15 minutes before each demonstration—grab a front-row seat!

Dress Comfortably

Smart casual attire respects the ceremony’s formality while ensuring comfort.

Photography Etiquette

Feel free to take photos before and after the ceremony; refrain from flash during the ritual.

Stay for Both Shows

The afternoon session offers a fresh perspective and smaller crowds.
As the ceremony concludes and the last sip of matcha settles on your palate, carry with you the serenity and mindfulness fostered by this timeless ritual. May the harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility you’ve experienced today inspire moments of calm in your daily life.
For all the details and any future updates, please visit the Royal BC Museum’s official website.

More

Less

Profile Picture

Nila Abasian

2025 May 11
Profile Picture

Alireza Moghimehfar

2025 May 11

Festivals & Events: Don't Miss Out!

Let Us Know Your Ideas