<P> Bows are exchanged between the host and the guest receiving the tea . The guest then bows to the second guest, and raises the bowl in a gesture of respect to the host . The guest rotates the bowl to avoid drinking from its front, takes a sip, and compliments the host on the tea . After taking a few sips, the guest wipes clean the rim of the bowl and passes it to the second guest . The procedure is repeated until all guests have taken tea from the same bowl; each guest then has an opportunity to admire the bowl before it is returned to the host, who then cleanses the equipment and leaves the tea room . </P> <P> The host then rekindles the fire and adds more charcoal . This signifies a change from the more formal portion of the gathering to the more casual portion, and the host will return to the tea room to bring in a smoking set (タバコ 盆, tabako - bon) and more confections, usually higashi, to accompany the thin tea, and possibly cushions for the guests' comfort . </P> <P> The host will then proceed with the preparation of an individual bowl of thin tea to be served to each guest . While in earlier portions of the gathering conversation is limited to a few formal comments exchanged between the first guest and the host, in the usucha portion, after a similar ritual exchange, the guests may engage in casual conversation . </P> <P> After all the guests have taken tea, the host cleans the utensils in preparation for putting them away . The guest of honour will request that the host allow the guests to examine some of the utensils, and each guest in turn examines each item, including the tea caddy and the tea scoop . The items are treated with extreme care and reverence as they may be priceless, irreplaceable, handmade antiques, and guests often use a special brocaded cloth to handle them . </P>

Who is involved in the japanese tea ceremony