teahouse

A cha-shitsu is a small Japanese pavilion or room specifically designed for the tea ceremony. Ideally, it's a separate structure in a garden called a roji, or "dewy path," to help guests disconnect from the outside world. These structures are typically small with plain walls and shoji (sliding paper screens) that allow soft light. A low entrance, about 2.5 feet square, is designed to encourage humility. The interior is simple, usually accommodating only a few guests, and features a tokonoma, an alcove for displaying art like scrolls or flower arrangements. The famous tea master Sen Rikyū was instrumental in developing the cha-shitsu as a distinct structure.12