With the Arrival of Spring
The other day, a friend invited me to visit a herb garden.
Stepping into the garden, where the air was slowly embracing spring and soft sunlight poured down, I took a deep breath. The clear aroma, unlike anything I could experience in the city, filled my lungs.
Inside the high-ceilinged greenhouse, a green path gently wound its way.
As I walked, feeling the rustle of leaves, the scent of the earth, and the light filtering through in places, an brightly open grocery corner appeared at the back.
Shelves were filled with herbs and spices.
There was so much to see, I was at a loss where to start.
Each time I examined a tea leaf, I envisioned the time I would spend beyond its fragrance.
The rich aroma of jasmine, the refreshing crispness of lemongrass, the bittersweet lingering taste of Japanese citrus.
Imagining the moments these would accompany in my daily life, I selected a few to take home as souvenirs.
Just thinking about the colors and aromas unfurling in my beloved glass pot brought a smile to my face.
The Appeal of Glass: Beautiful Tea Leaf Colors and Convection
The greatest pleasure of using a glass pot is being able to observe the tea leaves directly.
The moment hot water is poured, the dormant leaves gently awaken, slowly unfurling and creating a soft flow.
This movement, circulating within the transparent vessel and catching the light, is like watching a miniature water landscape.
The tea's color deepens slowly, creating a beautiful gradient.
Watching the gently swaying tea leaves, it's不思議 how my breathing also calms down.
And then there's the purity of glass as a material.
Because it doesn't transfer odors or retain memories of the previous cup, it truly allows the unique character of each day's tea leaves to shine through.
What should have been preparation before drinking turns into an enjoyable ritual of brewing.
The Hinode Glass Pot is one such presence that teaches us this small richness.
Which tea shall I choose today? The joy of selection
In the morning, I place the pot on the table and gaze at the shelf, as if searching for a scent that matches my mood for the day.
Each time I pick up a tea leaf, I envision the time I'll spend beyond the steam, and my spirits lift even before brewing.
On days I choose tea with jasmine flowers, I pair it with a lightly sweet éclair for a leisurely afternoon tea time.
The floral fragrance rises with the steam, mingling with the lingering taste of smooth cream.
The light from the window was also soft, making even time feel sweet.
On another day, a crisp and refreshing lemongrass.
I warm an apple pie and pair it with the clean aroma.
The gentle tartness of the apple and the refreshing sensation of the herb create a comforting combination that seems to soothe my mind.
And on a WFH afternoon, a caffeine-free tea of Japanese spicebush and citrus.
As I quietly approach my desk, the sudden waft of fragrance helps me relax my shoulders.
Perhaps choosing tea is about choosing myself for the day.
The Hinode Glass Pot: A Presence That Complements Daily Life
I feel that the Hinode Glass Pot is more than just a tool for brewing tea.
Its transparent presence isn't overly assertive, yet it is undeniably there, seamlessly blending into the everyday landscape, embracing both the morning light and the afternoon shadows.
Hot water is poured, tea leaves unfurl, and slowly circulate.
Watching this movement, it feels as if the mood and atmosphere of the day are reflected directly within a single cup of tea.
On busy days, or days when my feelings are a little unsettled, watching that gentle undulation allows my hurried heart to unwind. Before I know it, I feel like I've returned to my usual self.
Scent, color, movement.
The time enjoyed with all five senses is not just for special occasions; rather, it is something that gently illuminates an ordinary day.
Today again, as I pause in front of the shelf, I softly ponder, "Now, which one shall I choose?"
I believe this pot embraces that very moment.
