Genshitsu Sen, Former Urasenke Grand Master and Order of Culture Recipient, Dies at 102

It has recently been announced that Mr. Genshitsu Sen, former Grand Master of the Urasenke School of Tea Ceremony and recipient of the Order of Culture, passed away at the age of 102. For many years, Mr. Sen dedicated himself to the development of tea culture and international exchange. His life, advocating for peace with the motto "Peacefulness through a bowl of tea," influenced countless people.

During the Pacific War, Mr. Sen experienced the harrowing ordeal of volunteering for the Navy's Special Attack Units as a student soldier. As one of the "lives allowed to survive," he continued to strongly advocate for the preciousness of peace after the war. His message was symbolized by the words, "In the tea room, there are no distinctions of rank, no victors or vanquished," aiming for a world of harmony without discrimination through the Way of Tea.

As the 15th Grand Master of Urasenke, Mr. Sen visited over 60 countries, spreading the spirit of tea throughout the world. He also served as a UN Goodwill Ambassador, actively teaching the tea ceremony to dignitaries and ordinary citizens both in Japan and abroad, earning him the nickname "the Flying Grand Master." His achievements are immeasurable; for instance, in 2002, he was the first person in the tea ceremony world to receive the Order of Culture. Beyond tea ceremony, he was active in various fields, including serving as chairman of the Japan Equestrian Federation.

On social media, upon learning of Mr. Sen's passing, numerous messages of deep gratitude and respect for his contributions to tea culture and his dedication to peace have been posted. Voices recalling his past television appearances and suggestions that his funeral attendance might be "at a state funeral level" due to his wide international network of friends attest to his significant influence.

Genshitsu Sen's great accomplishments and his life devoted to seeking peace made immense contributions not only to Japanese culture but also to world peace. We respectfully offer our deepest condolences.

The context

This article reports the passing of Genshitsu Sen, a highly influential figure in Japanese culture. Genshitsu Sen was the 15th Grand Master (家元, Iemoto) of the Urasenke School of Tea Ceremony, one of the three main schools of Chanoyu (the Japanese tea ceremony). The Iemoto system designates the hereditary head of a traditional Japanese art, responsible for its preservation and transmission. Sen dedicated his life to promoting Chanoyu globally as a path to peace and understanding, particularly after his experience as a kamikaze volunteer during World War II. He was also a recipient of the Order of Culture (文化勲章, Bunka Kunshō), one of Japan's highest honors bestowed by the Emperor for cultural achievements.