THIS for Diplomats Hosted at Japanese Cultural Exchange

The THIS for Diplomats Japanese Cultural Exchange enjoyed an outstanding program recently at the Old Residence at the Embassy of Japan.  Diplomats from twelve countries (Japan, Algeria, European Union, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Kyrgyzstan, Korea, Pakistan, Turkey and Viet Nam) joined THIS volunteers for this memorable event on Friday. We were delighted to experience and learn about Japanese culture through The Aroma and Taste of Japan ~ the Japanese Tea Ceremony. 

We were especially honored to be welcomed by Mr. Koichi Ai who is not only Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Japan to the US but is also a skilled tea master. His expertise and dedication to the art of tea was truly inspiring.  In addition, multiple cultural booths were featured—including Origami, traditional crafts, and "Tsumami”. We were served Matcha, a drink made from specially grown and processed green team leaves; and beautifully presented Japanese refreshments. These things deepened our appreciation for Japanese culture.