The Ueda Sōko tradition of chanoyu, or tea ceremony, is a cultural aesthetic practice that originated within the samurai nobility of feudal Japan. The school is commonly called the Ueda Sōko Ryū 上田宗箇流 or Ueda Ryū 上田流 (ryū meaning "tradition" or "school"). The founder from whom the tradition takes its name is Warring States period warlord Ueda Sōko (1563-1650). The samurai's customs, etiquette and values are woven throughout all aspects of the school's practice that has continued unbroken for over 400 years.

The appeal of warrior-class chanoyu lies in pursuing the deeper aspects of the self through disciplined practice. This cultivates an understanding of the interpenetration of self, other, things, and nature. These elements come together in a tea context through the interplay of the host (self), guest (other), tea utensils & art objects (things), and the five elements of nature: earth, water, fire, wind, void. A tea gathering is an opportunity to create meaningful relationships with other people by exploring the quintessential themes of our lives.

The Ueda Sōko tradition is practised and taught globally through the efforts of Adam Sōmu Wojciński and his assistant teachers and students. Together, they make up the international chapter of Ueda Ryū called Sōmu Shachū.

The Ueda Ryū wishes to communicate its art to the current and future generations, contributing to a world culture that furthers the arts, human understanding and peace.