Introduced to Japan during the twelfth century, the Japanese Tea Ceremony, called Chanoyu, represents much more than the preparation and serving of tea.  This centuries-old tradition remains a method of communication between host and guest, and creates harmony from discourse.  The Way of Tea is centered around the four basic principles of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility.  It is a social event with a focus on spiritualilty and art through beauty and choreographed movement.
 

A Glimpse at Chanoyu this site provides an observer's account of what it's like to participate in a Japanese Tea Ceremony        first-hand.
An Anthropological Perspective on the Japanese Tea Ceremony this site gives a scholarly and informative description of the background and purpose behind the Japanese Tea Ceremony.
How to Join Tea Ceremony this site discusses how to host a tea ceremony and where you can go to be part of one.     Seidoan Soto Zen Temple this site focuses on the origin and spiritual side of the Japanese Tea Ceremony
Tea Ceremony this site describes the Japanese Tea Ceremony and its meaning.
Tea Museum this museum greets guests with a cup of local sencha green tea, and is a place where visitors can learn the history of drinking and making tea in Japan.
The Japanese Tea Ceremony (Chaji) this site shares the meaning and method behind the Way of Tea
The World in a Bowl of Tea this site provides recipes for Japanese Tea.
Welcome to Cha No Yu (the site of the Way of Tea) this site provides an overview of the Japanese Tea Ceremony and explains the purpose behind the ceremony.