A Spring Evening, After Sakura Matsuri

After the energy of Sakura Matsuri, there is always a quiet moment that follows.

A return home.
A slower pace.
A cup of tea in the evening.

This time, I reached for one of my favorite nighttime teas — an herbal Koya-san tea from Mount Koya, a 1,200-year-old mountaintop temple complex in Japan, known for its deep spiritual history.

Something gentle. Grounding.

I paired it with Tokaragashi’s seasonal wagashi — a collection I keep thinking about. The sakura details felt especially meaningful this year. A soft reminder that each season invites us to begin again.

This year marked the 51st annual Sakura Matsuri at Seattle Center.

It’s one of the longest-running cultural festivals in the city — a space where tradition, community, and celebration come together.

And for me, it’s also personal.

My parents and I have been part of this festival for at least 15–17 years. Returning each year feels like stepping into a living memory — one that continues to grow and evolve.

To everyone who came by — whether we spoke, shared tea, or simply crossed paths — thank you.

Moments like these are why I continue this work.

More gatherings, more tea, more collaboration…
to come.

#SakuraMatsuri
#TeaRitual
#JapaneseTea
#Wagashi
#FloweringWaters

#桜祭り
#日本茶
#和菓子
#高野山
#茶の時間