The concept is central to the ancient art of the tea ceremony, where both the host and guests are expected to approach the gathering with complete sincerity and appreciation, knowing that this specific moment will never come again.

The core idea is that no two moments are ever exactly the same. Even a regular event is different each time due to subtle changes in circumstances, people, and feelings.

Ichi-go, ichi-e encourages a mindset of being fully present and engaged in the current experience, rather than being distracted by the past or future.

It is a reminder to treat every encounter with sincerity and to appreciate the people and circumstances of that particular moment.