In a tea ceremony, everything begins with cleanliness. Before touching the cup, before water meets the leaves, the master wipes the table, the teapot, their hands — the Cha Jin (茶巾) becomes the first and final gesture of the ceremony. It is not just a piece of cloth. It is a sign of respect — for the tea, the guest, and the space where elements meet.
The Philosophy of Cleanliness
In Chinese tradition: "Cleanliness brings calm." The Cha Jin absorbs excess water, clears droplets, and prevents disorder from disturbing the flow of the ceremony. This is an act of inner focus — like a deep breath before the first sip. Every movement with the towel is gentle, unhurried, almost like a quiet conversation with the space.
Materials and Craftsmanship
Traditional tea towels are made from linen, cotton, or bamboo fibre. Materials are chosen carefully: they must absorb moisture well, feel soft to the touch, and maintain their shape after countless ceremonies. Many towels are dyed with natural pigments — shades of earth, moss, or aged tea — colours that do not distract the eye but create calm and warmth. Some are adorned with calligraphy — characters meaning "silence," "tea," or "the Way."
Role in the Ceremony
During Gongfu Cha, the towel is always close at hand. It wipes drops after warming the vessels, cleans the rim of the teapot, and maintains order on the tea tray. In traditional tea schools, it was said: "The master who handles the Cha Jin with care holds the heart of tea." Those who maintain outer cleanliness can preserve inner clarity.