Everett Mayor’s Youth Council enjoys tea ceremony

Published 9:40 pm Sunday, March 2, 2008

The Nippon Business Institute at Everett Community College has played host to Japanese dignitaries, business executives and hundreds of students since it first opened two decades ago.

Over the years, the center, which is open to the public for tours, has added the Nishiyama Japanese Garden with a tearoom, a rock garden and a water feature.

Mayumi Smith, the Institute’s program director, introduced the Everett Mayor’s Youth Council last week to a traditional Japanese ceremony at the tranquil garden. It began with the guests rinsing their hands and mouths then calming their minds before entering the tearoom, where they were treated to sweets and green tea.

“This has a history of 400 years,” Smith said.

The garden is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday when the college is open. Admission is free.

Group tea ceremonies for up to 10 people are available by appointment with a minimum charge of $150.

For group tours and more information: 425-388-9195.

Reporter David Chircop: 425-339-3429 or dchircop@heraldnet.com.

Nippon Business Institute

Q: What is the Nippon Business Institute?

A: An undergraduate international studies program concentrating on Japan-U.S. business relationships.

Q: What is its mission?

A: To help “Bridge the Cultural Gap” between Eastern and Western cultures by promoting the study of Japanese language, history and culture.

Q: What are classes like and who could benefit from studying there?

A: The learning environment emphasizes small class sizes and accessible instructors. Students also have hands-on opportunities with study and internships in Japan. The Institute can also sharpen skills and provide new ones for people who do business in Japan or with Japanese companies.