The Japanese Teahouse, or chashitsu (茶室), is a rather distinctive Japanese building style. There are many wooden architectural elements and details that are unique to Chashitsu.
The architectural style of the Japanese Tea House is oft referred to as sukiya (数寄屋). The Suikiya style traces it roots to as far back as the late 15th century. They are built with natural, indigenous material. Wood and bamboos are used for the structure, ceilings, partitions, windows and shelves; and other materials such as stones, and clay (which the walls are made of) would complete the building. Often, the tea houses would have a thatched roof.
The spaces inside a Teahouse are rather small, a few tatami mats’ size, and are often free of many of the ornamental elements that are common in other building types.
Iho-an (遺芳庵), as pictured here, is one of the five teahouses inside Kyoto’s Kodai-ji (高台寺).
Even though Suikoushya International Craft School is now up and running in France, our Kyoto workshop will still continue to operate and we want to welcome you when you’re in Kyoto!
Here in Kyoto you can explore the many different wooden architectural treasures of Japan!
The Japanese Teahouse~Kyoto Traditional Architecture guide~
