Humble visitor master of tea ceremony
BY MATT RILKOFF
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Hideo Takei would have you believe he is a simple retiree little worthy of the attentions of a reporter.
He plays down his many years as a high ranking official in Japan's Treasury, a black belt in judo and a published book of poetry.
But he cannot hide his skill as a master of the much revered and intricate Japanese tea ceremony, which he is demonstrating daily at the Japanese Tea House Garden in New Plymouth.
The garden itself is a popular choice in the Taranaki Rhododendron and Garden Festival, attracting 1100 punters last weekend.
Some 60 of these people had the good sense to book a spot on one of Mr Takei's tea ceremonies.
Dressed in a delicate and immaculate green silk kimono, the modest master was invited to New Plymouth by his friend Musashi Iwata, the man behind the tea house.
"Actually Mr Iwata made me come," he says with a laugh.
Though such pressure would be understandable.
Watching his friend perform a tea ceremony was the inspiration to build the traditional tea house in New Plymouth, Mr Iwata said.
"He caused me to have such a dream. He is so sophisticated and instructive to me. I was fascinated by the ceremony and wanted to bring it to other people."
Such frank admissions cause Mr Takei to lightly redden and feign surprise.
"I don't have enough English to answer any more questions," he said politely trying to avoid talking about himself.
He just as politely avoided any comparison between the famous Mt Fuji and the much loved Mt Taranaki.
"It's covered in cloud right now you see," he said.
Bookings are essential to participate in the tea ceremony, said garden facilitator Naomi Wilson.
"If people have made bookings and cannot make it, I would appreciate if they let me know. There are other people who want to go if they aren't able to come," she said.
- © Fairfax NZ News
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