The Path of Tea

My name is Janice (Jan), though in the tea room, I am known as 雪眞 (Sesshin).

Tea has always been more than a beverage for me. It is a way to connect, to reflect, and to inhabit the present moment. What began as a personal curiosity evolved into a lifelong study of Japanese tea culture, a journey that has taken me from the tea farms of Japan to the quiet discipline of the tea room.

A Bridge Between Traditions

I see my practice as a bridge between the deep history of tea and the rhythm of modern life. I currently study the Way of Tea (Chanoyu) with the Urasenke School and the Way of Sencha (Senchadō) with the Oubaku-Baisa Ryu.

In 2025, I was honoured to receive the title of Junshihan (準師範, associate professor) from the Oubaku-Baisa Ryu. This appointment has deepened my commitment to preserving and sharing these traditions.

Community and Education

While much of my practice is solitary and reflective, I believe tea is ultimately a shared language. This belief guides my work in the wider community:

• I serve as an instructor for the Japanese Tea Workshop series, which is a part of the cultural programming at the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre in Burnaby.
• I am the Western Canada representative for the Global Japanese Tea Association, helping to spread awareness, provide education and connect local tea lovers with the growers and producers in Japan.
• I am a co-founder of Teakan, where we explore the stories behind the leaves and share unique tea experiences.

The Meaning of Chanoma

The name Jan’s Chanoma comes from the Japanese word chanoma (茶の間), which translates to "tea space." Traditionally, it is a place where family and friends gather to share tea and company.

I want this space, both here online and at my physical table, to embody that same spirit of warmth and unspoken discovery. Whether you are a longtime practitioner or simply looking for a moment of quiet, you are welcome here.

Let us brew something special together.

- 雪眞 Sesshin