In the context of the Japanese tea ceremony, kaiseki refers to a light meal served as part of the proess of chaji (formal tea gathering) to prepare guests to enjoy the final bowl of tea with full appreciation.

The origin of the term “kaiseki” lies in Zen Buddhist practice, where monks would place a warm stone wrapped in cloth against their stomach to ease hunger. From this custom, the word came to represent a modest meal meant to gently warm the body. In tea gatherings, kaiseki serves this very role—offering warmth, comfort, and emotional readiness, as a heartfelt gesture of hospitality.

At Sankyodou, we offer a variety of kaiseki utensils, including chopsticks, trays, and lacquered bowls, as well as zenshoku(low candle stands) used during yobanashi (evening tea gatherings).