Character guide

Rikiu

major

Also known as The great Rikiu, The Last Tea of Rikiu

The greatest tea master, whose story and philosophy permeate the book.

Laozi

supporting

Ancient Taoist philosopher whose teachings are central to the book's themes.

Luwuh

supporting

Author of the classic tea treatise, revered as a tea saint.

Kobori Enshiu

supporting

Also known as Enshiu

Renowned tea master and garden designer of the early Edo period.

Soshi

minor

Taoist philosopher known for parables and the butterfly dream.

Peiwoh

minor

Legendary Chinese tea connoisseur known for his refined taste.

Lotung

minor

Chinese poet who celebrated tea in verse and daily life.

Chikamatsu

minor

Japanese dramatist whose works reflect tea culture aesthetics.

Taiko Hideyoshi

supporting

Also known as the Taiko, Taiko, Hideyoshi

Powerful warlord and patron of tea master Rikiu.

Sotumpa

minor

Chinese tea master known for his eccentric wisdom.

Confucius

minor

Chinese philosopher whose teachings are contrasted with Taoism.

Sakyamuni

minor

Historical Buddha, referenced in discussions of Zen and tea.

Buddha

minor

Also known as the Buddha

Enlightened being central to Buddhist philosophy in the book.

Hiakujo

minor

Chinese Zen master who established monastic tea rituals.

Tanka

minor

Zen monk known for burning a wooden Buddha statue for warmth.

Empress Komio

minor

Japanese empress who offered tea to Buddhist monks.

Bodhi Dharma

minor

Also known as Bodhi - Dharma

Legendary founder of Zen Buddhism, associated with tea's origin.

Katagiri Sekishiu

minor

Also known as Sekishiu

Tea master who preserved Rikiu's traditions after his death.