Chinese Art of Tea

The Chinese have been relishing drinking tea for the past four thousand years. It is no wonder that tea is the national and most favoured beverage in the country.

There are several types of Chinese tea. They range from the everyday green tea to some of the most exotic blends available in the world today. Tea drinkers in ancient China were primarily aristocrats who were highly respected in Chinese culture and society. In ancient China, tea drinking was highly popular and considered one of the important daily necessities. A person’s social status once depended on the type of tea he or she drank.

Every household in China has a traditional tea set and water heater to prepare the aromatic beverage. Serving tea is considered a sign of deep respect. During special events, family gatherings, and important festivals, a younger person can show his respect to their elders by serving them cups of tea. Even one of the most important ceremonies of a traditional Chinese wedding is serving tea to the parents and relatives.

Tea tastings are big in China. It is a great opportunity to meet people who are held in high regard in Chinese society. Another interesting aspect of Chinese tea culture or Chinese art of tea is that people apologise to each other by offering tea.