The Japanese tea ceremony; also called the Way of Tea; is a Japanese cultural activity involving the ceremonial preparation and presentation of matcha; powdered green tea. In Japanese; it is called chanoyu (???) or chado; sado (??). The manner in which it is performed; or the art of its performance; is called otemae (???; ???). Zen Buddhism was a primary influence in the development of the tea ceremony.

Tea gatherings are classified as chakai (??) or chaji (??). A chakai is a relatively simple course of hospitality that includes confections; thin tea (?? usucha); and perhaps a light meal. A chaji is a much more formal gathering; usually including a full-course kaiseki meal followed by confections; thick tea (?? koicha); and thin tea. A chaji can last up to four hours.