Japan\’s tea legend Sen Genshitsu passes at 102: heartfelt reports

Sen Genshitsu, the Tea‑Ceremony Grand Master, Dies at 102

Sen Genshitsu, known for merging the Japanese tea ritual with a pacifist vision, passed away Thursday at 102. A former kamikaze candidate, Sen instead brewed matcha for world leaders, emphasizing the calming power of a simple bowl of tea.

From a Fighter’s Training to a Beverage of Peace

• Sen trained in 1943 for a kamikaze mission that never materialized.
• He served tea to soldiers during drills, later seizing the ritual to champion anti‑war messages.
• In a 2023 interview, he declared, “A bowl of tea makes spirits very peaceful.”

Tea Ceremonies in Iconic Locations

Sen performed ceremonies at the United Nations headquarters and the USS Arizona Memorial, sites linked to U.S. entry into World War II, making his practice a symbol of reconciliation.

Recognition Across Nations

• Order of Culture (Japan, 1997)
• Legion of Honour (France, 2020)
• UN Goodwill Ambassador for UNESCO

Leadership and Legacy

In 1964, Sen became the 15th‑generation grand master of the Urasenke school after his father’s death. He retired in 2002 but retained more than 100 advisory roles, delivered speeches lasting over an hour, and traveled extensively, earning the nickname “Flying Grand Master.”

Sen’s death was reported by NHK, Yomiuri Shimbun, and other major Japanese outlets. The Urasenke school had not yet commented.