Irene Inouye is greeted by Japanese ambassador Ichiro Fujisaki and his wife, Yoriko. Photograph by Jeff Martin
Masako Sen, host of the tea ceremony, welcomes her guests with opening remarks about the culture of tea and the 100th anniversary of the cherry blossoms given to the United States by Japan. Photograph by Jeff Martin
Makiko Sen performs the ritual of tea preparation while her mother assists. Photograph by Jeff Martin
Looking down on the pot in which the tea is stirred. Photograph by Jeff Martin
The traditional bamboo ladle used to serve the tea. Photograph by Jeff Martin
Each guest took a turn admiring the artistry of the tea bowls, beginning with Ambassador Fujisaki, here with Koichiro Izumi. Photograph by Jeff Martin
In accordance with tradition, the tea is sipped carefully, thoughtfully, and slowly. Photograph by Jeff Martin
The beautiful sweet and the lovely green tea prepared by Makiko Sen. Photograph by Jeff Martin
Ambassador Fujisaki after the tea ceremony. Photograph by Jeff Martin
What guests took home: beautifully wrapped Suetomi cookies. Photograph by Carol Ross Joynt
