It is considered to be a generalized art form that practices not only serving and drinking tea, but deals with the purpose of living, the way of thinking, religion, art of tea tools and art works placed in the tea room.
ただ、茶をいれて飲むだけでなく、生きていく目的や考え方、宗教、茶道具や茶室に置く美術品など、広い分野にまたがる総合芸術とされる。