Tea Culture

In the busy modern society, the fast-paced lifestyle has made us miss out on many beauties and joys. The emergence of tea spaces with a focus on aesthetics provides us with an opportunity to slow down and explore and enjoy another way of life. Located in the Yun Valley Innovation Park in Baohe District, Eleven Tea House is such a tea space that combines tea and aesthetic living. It presents a natural setting amidst very modern architecture, integrating culture, refined gatherings, and tea events in one place. It infuses traditional culture and the concept of tea plus aesthetics into modern life, allowing more people to discover the beauty of life. The founder of the tea house, Guan Xiaobao, was once a landscape designer. He became involved with tea by chance. "Drinking tea is a way to enjoy life and should not be constrained by the environment. I hope to create a space where everyone interested in tea can brew tea in their own preferred way. Ten signifies completeness, from the very beginning." Speaking about the origin of Eleven Tea House, founder Guan Xiaobao said this. Upon entering Eleven Tea House, the words “Luzhou Light” illuminated by the lights catch your…

The terrain in the Menghai tea region is complex, forming small-scale ecosystems where tea trees grow. Through natural hybridization, natural selection, and artificial selection, these ecosystems have given rise to a rich variety of tea tree species with distinct botanical characteristics. Wild tea tree (Photographed by Zuo Lianjiang)The main locations for wild tea trees within the county are Xiding, Mengsong, Meng'a, Bulang Mountain, and Gelande, belonging to the Dali tea species. These trees typically grow singly and scattered throughout mountainous areas at an altitude of around 1,500 meters. Looking at their distribution pattern, it decreases from southwest to northeast. Generally, these trees are tall with upright or semi-spreading postures, small leaves, few veins that are not prominent, flat surfaces, thick and smooth leathery textures, sparse downy hairs on young shoots, long internodes, and serrated leaf margins that are sparse and not obvious. The posterior part of the leaf often lacks serrations, and there are few rounds of leaf sprouting. The quality of tea made from these leaves is generally poor, with a bitter taste and a light color. They have strong resistance. A typical example is the "Tea Tree King" in Bada, which is over 1,700 years old. The cultivated…

Read the poem Revisiting the He Family's Residence (Part Three) Author: Du Fu Sunset on the terrace, sipping tea in the spring breeze. Leaning against the stone railing with brush in hand, sitting to pen a poem on the paulownia leaf. The jade bird sings from the clothesline, a dragonfly perches on the fishing line. Since this day’s delight, when we will meet again is uncertain. Taste the poetry's meaning The sunset fills the terrace with its glow, and in the spring breeze, we sip our fragrant tea together. Leaning carefree against the stone railing, I casually write a poem on the paulownia leaf with my brush. The jade bird sings from the clothesline, and a dragonfly quietly stands on the fishing line. From this day forward, I enjoy this elegant setting and mood even more, not knowing when I might have the chance to visit again. This poem describes an evening in spring where the author drinks tea at the He family's residence. When inspired, he leans on the stone railing and begins to write a poem on a paulownia leaf. He is accompanied by jade birds and dragonflies. This scene could be painted as an exquisite "Tea Drinking…

The world is ever-changing, yet only composure and calmness within can remain constant to adapt to the vicissitudes of life. Such composure cultivates a demeanor that remains unperturbed by external circumstances. Many seek answers to achieve such inner composure, unaware that over a thousand years ago, Chan Master Congshan provided us with an answer: "Go drink tea." A cup of tea, for health and composure One's physical state influences their psychological state. A healthy body fosters optimism and a calm demeanor in the face of challenges. Tea is a natural beverage that provides nutritional value and health benefits. It contains various vitamins essential for human needs, contributing to dietary balance. The caffeine and catechins in tea help relax the digestive tract, aiding digestion. Caffeine also stimulates the central nervous system, providing a refreshing effect. The catechins in tea help lower total cholesterol, free cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides, promoting lipid metabolism. Tea, silently exuding tranquility Laozi said, "Stillness overcomes restlessness; cold overcomes heat. Tranquility is the true nature of all under heaven!" In stillness lies composure. In today's fast-paced society, the pursuit of goals can sometimes lead to restlessness and impatience. Restlessness often stems from dissatisfaction with one's current…

In the movie "Pegasus 2," Yin Zheng, portraying Sun Yutang, brews tea for Factory Manager Jia Bing. The comical way Sun Yutang carefully adds "Gao Sui" has become a memorable scene in "Pegasus 2," provoking laughter from the audience. Everyone watching the film can see the awkwardness of Zhang Chi, played by Shen Teng, and Sun Yutang, played by Yin Zheng, as they try to maintain a dignified appearance. Similarly, everyone can tell that "Gao Sui" is not considered high-end. However, just as Zhang Chi and Yutang are not without talent, "Gao Sui" is certainly not a low-quality tea. "Gao Sui" is a term unfamiliar to many, and it is indeed rarely seen today. Even Beijing's Qinglin Chun and Wu Yutai no longer sell it; only the century-old Zhang Yiyuan offers it for sale for a few days each October. It's not uncommon for old Beijingers to queue up in the early morning hours to buy "Gao Sui." What is the charm of "Gao Sui"? Why is it so beloved? 01 "Gao Sui" Has a Wide Popularity Base Northerners love scented teas, one of which is "Gao Sui." Its name includes the character "Sui" (shard), indicating its affordability. "Gao Sui"…

Changes in Manufacturing Processes The increased demand for Liubao tea abroad has boosted its exports, strengthened the Liubao tea industry, and driven continuous improvements in its manufacturing processes. According to "A Brief Record of Guangxi's Special Products," historically, early Liubao tea was made from fresh leaves through a process that included killing the green, initial kneading, heap fermentation, secondary kneading, and drying. This, however, was only the preliminary processing. As the overseas market expanded and Liubao tea needed to be transported by ship along the ancient tea route, local tea makers developed a refined processing technique. This involved using the coarsely processed green tea as raw material, sorting it, blending it according to different grades, heap fermenting it, and then steaming and compressing it multiple times. This traditional refined technology not only facilitated transportation but also allowed the tea to age well over time, making it suitable for shipping. According to "Guangxi Agricultural Communications," this technique had become the standard refined process for Liubao tea by the 1930s. Traditional tea utensils used by Singaporean Chinese families for drinking Liubao tea However, during the war years and into the late 1940s, the quality of Liubao tea produced in Wuzhou plummeted. A…

Zhang Ailing once said, “People in their middle age often feel this kind of loneliness, feeling that everyone who opens their eyes relies on them, yet there is not a single person they can rely on.” Being lonely with no one to rely on, yet being strong for others to lean on, is the norm for middle-aged life. In middle age, one may be mature and experienced, but life can still cause pain: worrying when family members are sick, getting angry when children don’t listen, feeling disappointed when mistakes occur at work, or worrying about finances… If one encounters tea in middle age, a thread of tea fragrance and a sense of tranquility can certainly help you set aside daily trivialities and circumvent the complexities before your eyes. In the process of boiling water, brewing tea, raising a cup, and tasting the brew, one can calm their mind. No matter how busy life gets, one can find leisure in a cup of tea. No matter how difficult times become, one can find joy in a cup of tea. Encountering tea in middle age means tea will comfort you. Life is like tea, with its ups and downs, and more often…

In the "world" of Pu'er tea, 8582 is like a reclusive master with unparalleled skills—his name is well-known, yet few have seen his true form. But whenever he appears, he commands attention, and those in the know can recognize him at first glance, thanks to his unique mark—the "Purple Heaven." Both 8582 and its sibling 8592 were born in 1985. Among Yunnan Seven Sons cakes, they stand out. While both hail from Menghai Tea Factory, they are exclusively custom-made for a Hong Kong-based trader—Nantian Trading Company. Because the purple "Heaven" character was stamped on their wrapping paper, a practice unprecedented at the time, these teas are commonly known as "Purple Heaven Cakes." The Purple Heaven Cakes now sell for over 100,000 RMB per cake, and various accounts related to them abound, often leaving people unsure of what to believe. Recently, our editorial team interviewed Chang Jinqiang, the former manager of the Specialized Tea Department at Yunnan Provincial Tea Import and Export Corporation, who witnessed the birth and export of 8582 and 8592 to Hong Kong. He shared stories about the legendary history of these Purple Heaven Cakes. The Beginnings and Endings of 8582/8592 Image The birth of the Purple Heaven…

"Burning incense, preparing tea, hanging paintings, arranging flowers— these four leisurely pursuits should not burden one's home." —Wu Zimu, Dream of the Liang Dynasty Readers who have watched the TV series Dreamy Song Dynasty will surely remember the scene where the main character Zhao Pan'er prepares tea with skillful and graceful movements, a sight that is pleasing to the eye. Tea became popular in the Tang Dynasty but flourished in the Song Dynasty. The custom of drinking tea was widespread in Song society, enjoyed by everyone from nobles and literati to merchants, gentry, and common folk, all of whom found pleasure in it, leading to the emergence of various tea-related activities. The method of drinking tea in the Song Dynasty differed from today's practice of steeping tea leaves in boiling water. In the Song Dynasty, tea was made from compressed cakes, which were ground into a fine powder before being mixed with boiling water. This process, known as "crushing the tea into powder, pouring hot water over it, and using a whisk to froth it," is referred to as "pointing tea." Song Dynasty people poured their hearts, filled with mountains and rivers, into their paintings and also into their tea.…

While Westerners love coffee, Chinese people often drink tea. Both beverages share one thing in common: no matter how rich and fragrant the coffee or how clear and refreshing the tea, they both carry a hint of bitterness. People savor this taste, relishing it endlessly. However, the difference lies in that Westerners tend to add sugar to their coffee, whereas Chinese people rarely mask the bitterness of tea. The original nature of tea is bitter, which is why it was once called “bitter tea.” To say that people have always liked this bitter beverage would be a lie. If you give a small amount of tea water to an innocent child, they will likely refuse it. Teenagers prefer cola over tea for the same reason. Before tea became a customary drink, people were naturally averse to it. For example, when ethnic minorities on the borderlands drink tea, they add milk and sugar; in West Asia and North Africa, people add mint, spices, and sugar to their tea. Essentially, these practices stem from an inability to accept its inherent bitterness. So why did Chinese people eventually tolerate and even come to like the bitterness of tea? This development involved a gradual…

In fact Aside from the commonly enjoyed "Laba Porridge," there is another Laba beverage in the tea world—the "Laba Tea." Have you heard of it? What’s in Laba Tea? Laba Tea, also known as Eight-Treasure Tea, has origins dating back to the Tang Dynasty, making it a famous tea with over 1,400 years of history. It is said that during the prosperous Tang period on the Silk Road, merchants would commonly brew a tea soup using dried fruits from various regions along with tea leaves, which served as an early form of Laba Tea for quenching thirst. Laba Tea typically consists of eight components, including tea leaves, red dates, goji berries, walnut kernels, longan, sesame seeds, raisins, and chrysanthemum flowers, among others. Additional ingredients can be added according to personal preference. How to Brew Laba Tea? The only requirement for drinking Laba Tea is to use a lidded bowl, as most of the tea ingredients are dried fruits. After pouring boiling water over them, the ingredients need to be stewed with steam to achieve the best taste, making a lidded bowl the perfect choice. Place the eight ingredients into a lidded bowl and rinse with boiling water, causing the ingredients…

Everything has its destiny, and so does tea. My life is intertwined with tea, a bond of fate between me and it. A pot of hot tea, a set of tea ware, a pouch of tea leaves. All my beautiful moments in life originate from tea. Drinking tea involves a sense of affinity and wisdom; to find kinship with tea is a blessing. As Bai Luomei said, "Tea has its own destiny, pots have their own cause and effect, and passersby have their own commitments. Everything in the world has its own faith and mission." All meetings in the world are due to past dispersals, and all partings are for the sake of finding one's final destination. When the tea brews its first bubbling and the stove fire turns red, every cup of tea we encounter in our lives is pure, beautiful, and compassionate in its own way. A tea lover always carries tea in their heart, thus tea is always present in their life, wherever they go, they yearn for a whiff of its fragrance. A tea lover's affection and obsession with tea have long transcended the mundane, becoming an inevitable part of their destiny. Su Dongpo said, "Fine…

Life must have entertainment. Aside from proper work and scholarly pursuits, a change of atmosphere and some entertainment can uplift one's spirit. There are many forms of entertainment, such as drinking, playing cards, chess, singing, listening to opera, painting, and drinking tea, each with its own benefits. But among all these forms of entertainment, if we were to choose one that is both convenient and refined, it might be drinking tea. 01Solo Enjoyment One doesn't drink alone, and two don't play cards. Singing and listening to opera require a group to be enjoyable. Even chess requires at least two players; one person cannot enjoy it by themselves. Only drinking tea is convenient for both groups and individuals. It can be enjoyed alone or with others, without the need for companions. 02No Restrictions on Time and Place Playing ball requires a court, and listening to opera requires a theater, and both need good weather and specific times. Other forms of entertainment also have their limitations. Only drinking tea has no restrictions on time or place. It can be done in the morning or evening, indoors or outdoors. All you need is a table, tea leaves, and teaware, making it very flexible…

Settle down, hold a fragrant cup of tea, and watch as the blue sprout and jade stamen unfold, branches stretch and leaves spread in myriad postures. In this world, when we have our fill of food and drink, we should take the time to slowly savor our tea and let its wisdom-infused fragrance seep into our lives. As time flows and centuries pass, how many people have managed to turn tumultuous times into tranquil waters, and how many have transformed the muddled and chaotic world into one of purity and clarity? What life truly is, is drinking tea and having heartfelt conversations. We are gradually leading more affluent lives. After meals, we brew ourselves a cup of tea and spend more time making friends. Our consumption philosophy is slowly changing, as we return to the essence of life, pursuing our own inner utopia, and paying for quality and aesthetics. An increasing number of people have clear aesthetic positions, seeking out their true selves in life. More and more people are finding like-minded companions who share similar values, aesthetics, and consumption philosophies, to enjoy life together. When it comes to drinking tea, the focus is on personal experience, not following the…

Abstract: Longjing tea stands out among green teas because it draws the essence of heaven and earth and integrates harmony between humanity and nature. This article analyzes its historical origins, cultural connotations, characteristics and identification, production techniques and features, applications and influences, inheritance, and prospects, to expound on the history, culture, and modern value of West Lake Longjing tea from China. Please bear with any limitations or errors (one person's view; 2024.04). Keywords: China; tea culture; West Lake Longjing; historical culture; modern value I. Historical Origins of West Lake Longjing Tea 1.1 Origin and Legends West Lake Longjing tea, as a gem of Chinese green teas, is steeped in mystery and romance through its origin and legends. According to historical records, the birthplace of Longjing tea is located by the West Lake in Hangzhou, near the village of Longjing, where mountains and waters converge, the climate is pleasant, providing ideal conditions for tea plants. There is a widely circulated legend about the origin of Longjing tea. Long ago, there lived a kind old woman in Longjing Village who worked hard every day, tending to her family’s tea garden. One day, while working in the mountains, she met an elderly man…

Do you like tea? Do you know the difference between Indian tea and our own? When it comes to India's national drink, it has to be tea. For many Indians, a day should start with a cup of Indian chai (masala chai), and this is not the end; they may buy several more cups from small shops and tea stalls throughout the day. Indian chai is typically made by combining tea leaves, milk, sugar, ginger root, cardamom, and cloves among other spices. However, tea is not native to India, tracing its roots back to Chinese tea. The history of Indian tea is quite short. In fact, just sixty or seventy years ago in India, most people had never tasted tea, let alone chai. Let’s delve into the specific history of Indian tea. It is claimed that as far back as ancient India, tea trees grew wild in the northeastern state of Assam. During the 12th century, the Jingpo tribe (a cross-border ethnic group mainly distributed in Yunnan Province in China, and also in India and Myanmar) and several other indigenous groups frequently drank wild tea. They would pack roasted dried tea leaves into bamboo tubes and then smoke them. To…

In the season of Great Heat, the scorching sun seems to intoxicate all living things with its endless fervor. Tea is like an elegant hermit who finds a tranquil haven amidst the hustle and bustle, dancing to a melodious rhythm alongside life. Tea is a touch of coolness in the midst of Great Heat, unhurried and unrushed, seeping into every soul that yearns for peace with its unique warmth. On a sweaty afternoon, brew a pot of good tea and watch as the emerald leaves tumble and settle in the water, ultimately finding calm, just like the ups and downs of life culminating in tranquility. This tea not only quenches thirst but also soothes the heart, offering us a glimpse of clarity and profound understanding of life amidst our busyness and restlessness. Life is like the weather during Great Heat, sometimes burning hot, sometimes oppressively stifling. And tea is the harmonizer, allowing us to feel coolness amidst the heat and find comfort in the midst of oppression. Every sip of tea is a taste of life and a reflection on existence. It teaches us that no matter how tumultuous the outside world may be, we must maintain inner tranquility and…

China is the birthplace of tea, and most Chinese people love it, from the imperial court to ordinary citizens. The ancient Chinese imperial court's fondness for tea drinking and tea culture led to the establishment of a tribute tea system that has lasted for thousands of years, exerting a profound and lasting influence on China's tea production and tea cultural heritage. ### Concept of Tribute Tea What is tribute tea? According to the dictionary, "tribute" can mean: 1. The act of paying tribute or presenting items by vassal states or subjects to their sovereign or the imperial court. 2. The items presented as tribute. 3. The recommendation of talented individuals. 4. The tax system during the Xia Dynasty. 5. To present something. 6. A surname. Therefore, tribute tea refers to tea offered as a gift by vassal states or subjects to the emperor or the imperial court. Tea falls under the category of local tribute, which consists of local specialties or regional products. There are primarily two types of local tribute: regular tribute with set quotas and miscellaneous tribute for the royal family's needs at any time. The principle of "tribute according to the land" dictates that "the tribute should…

As an integral part of Eastern culture, tea is not just a beverage but also a form of life art and spiritual symbol. In China, where tea culture has a long history, it integrates elements of elegance and commonality, becoming an indispensable part of people's daily lives. This article will take you on a deep dive into the elegance and commonality of tea culture and how they together shape this unique cultural phenomenon. The Historical Origins of Tea Culture The origins of tea can be traced back to ancient China, with legends suggesting that it was first discovered and used by Shen Nong. Over time, tea evolved from a medicinal plant to a daily beverage, and a complete tea ceremony culture gradually developed. Lu Yu's "Tea Classic" during the Tang Dynasty is an important document in Chinese tea culture, detailing the cultivation, production, consumption, and related cultural and philosophical ideas about tea. The Elegant Aspect of Tea Culture In ancient China, tea was regarded as a refined beverage that complemented the poetry, calligraphy, painting, and music of literati. Savoring tea was seen as a way to cultivate one's character, and literati would gather to enjoy tea and exchange ideas. The…

When I shout with all my might, It echoes throughout the mountains, And it is you who awakens, In the world of grasses and trees. —From "Grasses and Trees Amongst Us" As spring deepens, tea regions are bustling with activity. The release of "Grasses and Trees Amongst Us" during the tea season seems to have received mixed reviews. However, for tea enthusiasts, there are many commendable aspects. This film, set against the backdrop of Hangzhou's Longjing tea landscape, is filled with tea elements in its plot and details. Tea lovers would have noticed this. Moreover, the names of characters, scenes, and the storyline are all poetic. Behind the poetic tea ambiance lies a harsh and cruel social reality—the terrifying pyramid scheme scams and countless family tragedies! Every Tea Element is an "Inside Joke" It cannot be denied that director Gu Xiaogang understands tea, or at least has done his homework thoroughly. Each tea element in the film is an "inside joke." 01 Grasses and Trees Amongst Us: The character for "tea" split apart means "person among grasses and trees" The title "Grasses and Trees Amongst Us" itself refers to tea. "Tea is a fine tree from the south." "The character…

"Only This Green and Lustrous" Yunnan Green Tea, Oolong Tea Yunnan is the source of world tea, particularly the birthplace of large-leaf tea trees. Many people came to know Yunnan through Pu'er tea made from large-leaf varieties. In Yunnan, the history of ethnic minorities growing, processing, and drinking tea has a unique style that dates back a long way. However, before Pu'er tea became well-known, Yunnan tea had for a considerable period of time been outside the mainstream of Chinese tea. It has already been confirmed that large-leaf varieties in Yunnan are suitable not only for making Pu'er tea but also green tea, black tea, and white tea with remarkable taste. Due to the special nature of the large-leaf tea trees and the plateau terrain, especially for ancient tree teas, the sprouting is always later than small-leaf varieties. Pu'er tea only mentions "first spring," not "pre-Ming." When the first spring tea has yet to be picked and the spring scenery outside the window is at its best, everywhere is a scene of lush greenery – it is the perfect time to savor the "Only This Green and Lustrous" of Yunnan – green tea and oolong tea. Green - The Unique…

Introduction: Okinawa, originally named Ryukyu, was a vassal state of China during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The name "Ryukyu" was given to the archipelago by the Chinese during the Ming Dynasty. Historically, Ryukyu maintained close cultural exchanges and maritime trade with China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asian countries. Nearly transparent Okinawan sea In the mid-17th century, after the transition from the Ming to the Qing dynasty, the Qing dynasty became the ruler of China. In its relations with Ryukyu, the Qing dynasty continued the tributary system established by the Ming dynasty. With the increasing frequency of exchanges between Qing China and Ryukyu, the method of infused tea preparation also spread from Fujian to Ryukyu and became popular there in the early 18th century. The 18th-century Gongfu tea drinking methods and utensils that were transmitted from Fujian to Ryukyu have since become the basic model for Ryukyu Infused Tea. In 1718 (57th year of the Kangxi era), Xu Baoguang traveled to Ryukyu as a vice envoy for the investiture mission. Due to typhoon weather, he stayed in Ryukyu for nearly a year before returning to China. During his stay, he extensively researched local customs and social conditions, leaving behind the…

## Abstract: China's Douyun Maojian tea is a high-quality green tea from Douyun City, Guizhou Province, with a widespread origin story. This article analyzes the historical background, cultural connotations, production techniques, taste characteristics, value and benefits, and market development of Douyun Maojian tea to illustrate its history, culture, and modern value. Please bear with any limitations or errors (personal views; April 2024). **Keywords:** China; Tea culture; Douyun Maojian; Historical and cultural aspects; Modern value  *Image source: Network* ### I. Historical Background of Douyun Maojian Tea #### 1.1 Origin and Legends China's Douyun Maojian tea is a high-quality green tea from Douyun City, Guizhou Province, with widely circulated origins and legends. It is said that the legend of Douyun Maojian tea can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty. According to legend, there was a master of tea studies named Lu Yu who discovered a type of tea tree in the Douyun area during his travels in Guizhou. This tea tree grew at higher altitudes, with thick, tender buds that were fine, uniform, and covered in prominent downy hairs. Lu Yu praised this tea highly, considering it of excellent quality. He made tea from these leaves, finding the taste exceptional.…

China is the birthplace and cradle of tea culture and the world's largest tea-producing country. A series of customs, manners, and habits, known as tea customs, have formed during the processes of growing, processing, brewing, tasting, and drinking tea. The period of the Three Kingdoms, Jin Dynasty, and the Southern and Northern Dynasties was the nascent stage of tea customs. At that time, the main functions of drinking tea were limited to quenching thirst, sobering up, aiding meals, medicinal use, sacrificial offerings, and health preservation. There was also a preliminary tendency to view tea drinking as a spiritual pursuit. The popularity of tea-drinking began in the Tang Dynasty. At the beginning of the Tang Dynasty, although some people in the north drank tea, the custom of drinking tea was mainly confined to the southeast and southwest regions, hence the saying that "the southerners are fond of drinking tea, while northerners do not drink much." In the early 8th century, Emperor Suzong of Tang ordered an alcohol ban, so the people replaced wine with tea, and the custom of drinking tea began to spread in the north. After the Kaiyuan era, tea-drinking became widespread. Feng Yan’s "Fengshi Wenjian Ji" vividly depicted…