Roji

Jingu Chashitsu04

Tea House and Roji at the Adachi Museum of Art

Roji (露地), often translated as "dewy ground", is a term used in Japanese tea ceremony referring to the garden or path leading to the tea house or the chashitsu (茶室, tea room). The concept of Roji is deeply rooted in Zen Buddhism and is designed to detach the visitor from the outside world and prepare them mentally and physically for the tea ceremony. The Roji is not just a physical path but a spiritual journey, emphasizing simplicity, naturalness, and a return to the basics of human existence.

Design and Elements

The design of a Roji is characterized by its simplicity and natural aesthetic, aiming to evoke a sense of tranquility and mindfulness. Key elements include stepping stones (Tobi-ishi), lanterns (Tōrō), a water basin (Tsukubai), and sometimes a waiting shelter (Machiai), each serving a specific purpose in the ritual cleansing and preparation for the tea ceremony. The path itself is often narrow and winding, symbolizing the journey of life with its ups and downs, and leading the guest to leave behind the everyday world.