Crawling into the Chashitsu (躺口 - Nijiriguchi)
The architectural act of sliding through the tiny, low crawl-in entrance of a traditional tea room called 'Nijiriguchi'. It requires bathers to crouch and creep inside, symbolizing leaving all societal status and ego behind at the door.
Designed by Sen no Rikyu in the 16th century. No matter how powerful a Samurai warrior was, he could not slide through the tiny opening while wearing his long swords. It physically forced everyone to be completely equal inside the sacred space.
Remove shoes outside, kneel (Seiza) in front of the Nijiriguchi opening, place both fists on the floor, and slide your hips forward as you duck your head underneath the low frame. Slide inside slowly and gently close the sliding door.
What is the extremely tiny, low-crouching crawl-in entrance of a traditional Japanese tea room called?