Every careful thought and act of kindness is worth more than any sum of money.

Omotenashi provides a warm welcome, anticipating the other person’s needs, proactively addressing their pain and discomfort, and demonstrating genuine care and heartfelt experiences.

You may have first learned of omotenashi during the 2021 Olympics in Japan or through the hospitality industry. However, it is believed that this concept originated between 794 and 1185 during the Heian period. It is widely practiced in many Japanese service industries and is most associated with tea ceremonies (Sado).

Omotenashi is based on three principles that create the ultimate experience. Ichigo ichie, or making the most of every encounter; omakase, or building and maintaining trust in everything that is delivered; and kikubari, or anticipating the needs and demands of your guest. With these three principles, one performs selfless service with no hidden agendas, demonstrating genuine care by anticipating every need with attention to detail.

Yes, omotenashi is a tall order and difficult to achieve. Still, when you focus on providing your guests or acquaintances with genuine care and emotional comfort, it can make their experience with you extremely memorable and evoke a deep sense of appreciation.

Start small by applying omotenashi in everyday interactions and putting others first, creating moments of comfort and appreciation. Perhaps you could proactively prepare a warm cup of cocoa for your guest on a cold winter day or give a friend a small travel bag filled with their favorite snacks and essentials for a long flight or vacation abroad. It’s the thoughtful little actions intended to make them feel comfortable that will go a long way in creating memorable moments. As Ii Naosuke, the Japanese tea master who coined this phrase believed, each drink and meeting is unique. No cup of tea will be the same as the day before, so be grateful for each moment by taking great care in every cup served.

Drenched clothes, heavy steps
a dry towel, warm and folded —
raindrops sound softer.