The Outdoor Exhibits Intensive Learning group arrived at around 10:30 to explore Fairmount Park at the beginning of the cherry blossom season. It was an incredible sight to see the pink blossoming flowers. We then met at the Shofuso Exhibit and split into two groups, taking off our shoes to show respect and to help maintain the exhibit. It being Shofuso’s opening day, 6abc News was there to report the occasion. You can see our MFS Students enter the grounds here. At the tea ceremony, we learned about Sen Rikyū, the father of the modern tea ceremony who made tea culture accessible to all. Of course, we also were able to make and taste the ceremonial tea. During the tour, we learned about how Japanese architectural practices ensure everything is built best for the Japanese environment. For example, no structural nails are used to ensure buildings don’t collapse during earthquakes. Instead, the wood is put together like puzzle pieces. There is no form without function in Japanese architecture. We left with the philosophy in our head to treasure every moment, or as they say in Japanese, “ichi-go, ichi-e.”