Tea Culture

The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as the Duanwu Festival, is one of China's traditional festivals, held annually on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. Alongside eating rice dumplings (zongzi) and dragon boat racing, tea tasting is an integral part of the festival. On this day filled with traditional culture, the fragrance of tea adds a unique charm to the festivities. On the day of the Dragon Boat Festival, households prepare tea to share with family and friends. People use exquisite tea sets to brew fine tea, savoring its flavors carefully. The aroma of the tea is soothing and refreshing, seemingly dispelling the heat and irritability of summer. Moreover, tea tasting is a social activity where people exchange feelings and share life experiences, strengthening friendships and bonds. In addition to family gatherings, various tea cultural activities are held during the Dragon Boat Festival period. These include tea art performances and tea ceremony demonstrations, showcasing the exquisite skills of tea art and spreading the essence of tea culture. Audiences can learn more about tea knowledge and cultural connotations while enjoying these performances. The relationship between the Dragon Boat Festival and tea goes beyond drinking; it's also about cultural heritage.…

Every time I passed by the Merlion Park and looked up at the world-famous statue of the Merlion spouting water, something always felt amiss. One day, while idly watching the flow of passersby at an Orchard Road MRT station entrance, it struck me like a bolt of lightning: the Merlion statue has a stern expression without a hint of a smile. Just like the endless stream of pedestrians before my eyes, colorful as they were, their expressions were uniform: hurried, with serious faces. The constant spray of water, day and night, seemed to represent the relentless pressure that Singaporeans carry throughout their lives, unceasing and inexhaustible. I knew before arriving in Singapore that Singaporeans weren't particularly happy. On the world map, this tiny country is sandwiched between two large nations, Malaysia and Indonesia, with whom relations aren't entirely friendly. Lacking internal resources and facing external pressures, the nation struggles to find room to maneuver, constantly pushing itself to strive for excellence and work hard. During my stay in Singapore, I felt that the words "leisure" and "ease" were luxuries that were hard to come by. Even primary school students were competing over academic achievements, university professors were working tirelessly under…

In ancient China, drinking tea was considered as an art and a kind of enjoyment. Living in a fast pace environment nowadays, it might be quite difficult for us to imagine how our ancestors drank tea. Kebin Feng, a famous scholar during Ming dynasty, proposed the famous “Thirteen Rules”, which describes the thirteen different scenarios most ‘appropriate’ for drinking tea.(Kebin Feng is from Shandong Yidu (today’s Qingzhou). He became a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations in 1622, later he retired and lived in seclusion during the beginning of Qing dynasty. He is famous for writing and editing the series of books named 'Guang Bai Chuan Xue Hai', 'Jie Cha Jian' is a famous book included in the series. The book has about one thousand words, containing discussions and theories about the production and information about tea.) Here is the 'Thirteen Rules of tea drinking' that he proposed in the book:1. When we're freeThere is an old Chinese poem, 'In spring the flowers blossom, in autumn the moon is at its brightest, in summer there are cool breezes and in winter there is snow. When we have no concerns or worries, then it is the best "season" in life.' All seasons have…

During the Qing Dynasty, the local society of the Six Great Tea Mountains was a mix of officials, merchants, indigenous people, and others, all dependent on the tea mountains for their livelihood. These diverse groups were like individual notes that together composed the symphony of Pu'er tea's destiny. Old Yibang Street After the establishment of the Pu'er Prefecture through the replacement of native administration with imperial rule, the barriers between the Six Great Tea Mountains and the outside world were broken down, and an influx of merchants from outside entered the tea mountains. There were conflicts and mutual benefits between these newcomers and the local inhabitants, and over time they gradually blended together, painting a colorful picture of life in the tea mountains. The Qing government formally appointed local officials such as Wu Zhaohu of Yiwu, Cao Dangzai of Yibang, Ba Longfu and La Zha Bian of Bulang. The indigenous people living in the Six Great Tea Mountains at the time were primarily the Woni and Puman tribes, and there were also some local chieftains active between the native officials and the indigenous people. The leaders of the incoming merchants were called presidents, heads, chiefs, or leaders, serving to bridge…

Tea, like an elegant envoy stepping out of the depths of history, has traversed thousands of years and continues to exude its enchanting fragrance under the pens of literati and poets. It is more than just a simple beverage; it is a profound cultural symbol, an expression of deep affection for life and a unique attitude towards it. Before the delicate tea leaves even touch the lips, their lingering aroma already fills the surroundings, as if carrying the sediment of time and ancient wisdom, captivating the heart and soul. In tranquil nights, when all is quiet, only the gentle breeze softly caresses, bringing a hint of coolness. At such moments, humming a melodious ancient tune, one's thoughts can seemingly traverse through the tunnel of time, engaging in a spiritual dialogue with the ancients. Brewing a cup of fragrant tea elevates this tranquility and rustic ambiance to the utmost degree. Tea is not meant for guzzling. To simply raise the cup hastily and drain it is a desecration of its true essence, akin to the crude behavior of a boorish person. Tea should be sipped gently and savored slowly. Each mouthful of tea carries a unique and subtle flavor that lingers…

Life is a rush, and what’s most precious is the joy that comes from within. Tea is a gentle touch of extraordinary in our ordinary days. Though it doesn’t speak, it quietly weaves a web of happiness in its unique way. Taking a sip of fragrant tea slows down the entire world. The lingering aroma not only nourishes the palate but also soothes the restless mind. The magic of tea lies in its rich aromas, which act as nature’s perfumers, gently sweeping away worries and leaving behind tranquility and peace. Theanine, the source of tea’s fresh and sweet taste, enhances the flavor of the tea while acting like a masseuse for the soul, helping us find serenity amidst busyness and restlessness. Brewing tea is a tender conversation with time. Preparing water, selecting tea, and steeping it—each step requires patience and should not be rushed. In “Four Lectures on Taste,” Jiang Xun discusses the aesthetics of life: “If you eat a meal hurriedly, you won’t love your life. But if you prepare and enjoy a meal carefully, you will love your life because you feel that you have spent time and effort on it, that you have prepared for it.” Tea…

Abstract: Through a long historical development, Xinyang Maojian Tea has become a brilliant highlight in Chinese tea culture due to its unique origin and exquisite production techniques. This article analyzes the historical origins, cultural connotations, quality characteristics, production processes, market trends, inheritance, and innovation of Xinyang Maojian Tea, thereby elucidating its history, culture, and modern value. Please note that this is one author's perspective, and errors are inevitable; your indulgence is kindly requested (one person's opinion; April 2024). Keywords: China; Tea Culture; Xinyang Maojian; Historical and Cultural; Modern Value I. Historical Origins of Xinyang Maojian Tea 1.1 Origin and Legends Xinyang Maojian Tea is a type of green tea produced in the Xinyang region of Henan Province, China. There are several stories about the origin and legends of Xinyang Maojian Tea: 1. Legend One: It is said that during the reign of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, a tea farmer accidentally fell into a pile of tea leaves while picking them. When he climbed up in fright, he found that his sweat had covered the tea leaves. After roasting these leaves, he discovered that they were bright green in color and delicious, becoming the prototype of Xinyang Maojian Tea.…

Today is May Day, a festival for everyone. No matter your occupation, gender, age, or background, it is the combined efforts of all that have created a prosperous and civilized modern society. Gorky said that labor is the source of all joy and goodness in the world. The flowers of our dreams can only bloom splendidly when watered by labor; any form of hard work undertaken by workers deserves recognition and respect. In many familiar and unfamiliar corners, there are countless figures engaged in diligent work. They shoulder their responsibilities, honor their duties with sweat, repay society with conscience, and adorn the world with their efforts. They have different names and hold various positions. They are teachers, doctors, police officers, sanitation workers… They are conscientious and dedicated, and every effort they make deserves respect and recognition. A salute to all workers – you've worked hard, and happy holidays! As May Day arrives, the air fills with the fragrance of tea. The spring light is warm, and all things flourish. Set aside the busyness, enjoy a moment of tranquility, choose a quiet place, brew a pot of fine tea, and savor its sweetness and freshness. Let a good cup of tea…

Originating from China and enjoyed globally, tea is not only a universal beverage but also a "Chinese calling card" that carries history and culture. What elegance does Chinese life imbue in its tea drinking customs? How does tea culture influence us? On International Tea Day, let's delve into the world of Chinese tea together. As a drink, tea gained popularity during the Tang Dynasty and thrived in the Song Dynasty, becoming widespread by the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Tang Dynasty was a critical period for the formation of Chinese tea culture, most notably marked by the publication of "The Classic of Tea" by Lu Yu, the "Tea Sage," which is also the world's first specialized work on tea. From the Tang Dynasty onwards, tea transcended its initial functional and practical uses, such as quenching thirst and boosting alertness, to become more integrated into daily life and artistic expression. What did ancient tea tasting look like? We can find answers in artifacts. This set of Tang Sancai (three-color glazed) tea ware unearthed from a Tang tomb in Gongyi dates back to the sixth year of Emperor Wenzong's Taihe era. The figurine, wearing a narrow-sleeved, round-necked long robe, sits on a…

As stated in the book "Newly Compiled Yunnan General Gazetteer: Examination of Local Products - Tea," written in the 1940s, "The name Puer tea holds a special place among Chinese teas, far surpassing those from Anhui, Fujian, Zhejiang, and other regions." Puer tea is a gift from heaven and also one of nature's most generous gifts to humanity. It is a purely natural product that has survived the process of natural selection. As time progresses and technology advances, we should have a deeper understanding and appreciation of Puer tea. Puer tea is a solid-state naturally post-fermented tea. Microorganisms and enzymes invisible to the naked eye participate in the fermentation process, producing secondary metabolites with beneficial biological activity. These substances provide functions such as antibacterial, anti-tumor, antioxidant properties, and promote metabolism in the human body. In line with the conventional thinking of most tea-producing areas in China, if we categorize teas by geographical location, color, or production method, Puer tea cannot be grouped together with them. Puer historically served as a distribution center for Puer tea, unlike teas named after their places of origin like Longjing, Huangshan Maofeng, Xinyang Maojian, and Wuyi rock teas. Some people classify raw Puer tea as…

White tea, a unique and precious type of tea, is beloved for its delicate taste and rich nutritional value. Originating from China, it carries a long history and cultural heritage. Let's embark on a journey to appreciate white tea and savor its charm and flavors. The history of white tea can be traced back hundreds of years, with a long-standing tradition in regions such as Fujian and Yunnan in China. Initially, white tea was presented as a tribute to royalty due to its rarity and unique quality. Over time, it gradually became part of everyday life, becoming a popular beverage. The production process of white tea is relatively simple yet requires meticulous skill and patience. After picking, the leaves are sun-dried and withered, preserving the natural aroma and nutritional components of the tea. Compared to other teas, the processing of white tea is more natural, without undergoing the steps of fixation or rolling, which allows it to retain higher levels of polyphenols and amino acids. When tasting white tea, one can experience its distinctive flavor and aroma. The infusion has a light yellow color, clear and bright, giving a refreshing feeling. In terms of taste, white tea is characterized by…

Cooking fuel, rice, oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, and tea—life without tea lacks its full luster. Through summer, spring, winter, and autumn, there's always a perfect season for savoring tea. For example, in winter, one can hide in plain sight among the bustling city or find deeper solace in a cup of tea. In this season, gather with like-minded friends, free from the distractions of gain or the disputes of daily life. As the saying goes, whether your cup is full or empty, why vie? Whether your brew is strong or light, it has its own flavor. Such is the way, all well and good. In winter, boil a pot of Pu'er tea. Reflect on the past and look ahead to the future. Time leaves behind memories and sighs that once troubled our spirits, sleepless nights that once weighed on our hearts, tears that once wet our words. Through mountains and rivers, we learn to hold up the future and let go of the past, seeing the myriad faces of the world with an ordinary heart. Tea shared with a friend warms the heart even in winter. Our souls yearn for tranquility, a chance to slow down. Tea must be…

Liang Sicheng said: For the Chinese, having a courtyard of one’s own means the spirit truly has a place to settle. The Chinese have had a deep affection for courtyards since ancient times. Whether in the halls of power or far from officialdom, there was always a courtyard. A courtyard bears a way of life, a world different from the noise outside. A courtyard is the yearning many people have for their hometowns and homesteads; it hides a beautiful little world in our hearts. Bright flagstones, grey-tiled eaves, scattered flowers and trees, curling smoke from cooking fires, the scent of food wafting over from neighbors, and children playing in the courtyard unaware of the setting sun. Now that we have left the courtyards behind and moved into tall city buildings, we are gradually becoming estranged from the reassuring connection to the earth, gradually forgetting our old dreams of being at one with nature. Time is just right, life is stable. Having a courtyard, returning to nature and oneself, brewing tea and reading books, listening to the wind and rain lying down, has become a pursuit. Many people yearn for a garden of their own, a place where they can be…

For over a century, Liubao tea has been continuously exported through the ancient tea ship route into Southeast Asia, deeply integrating into the daily lives of local Chinese communities. The September monsoon breezes across the west coast of the Malay Peninsula, adding a cool touch to Malacca's evenings. In front of Wu Kunlun's house, in a simple tea pavilion, more than a dozen tea enthusiasts gather around, savoring the fragrant aroma of Liubao tea, chatting and enjoying each other's company in a harmonious atmosphere. These tea gatherings have continued for over a decade, with most participants being avid fans of Liubao tea. Over the years, they've formed bonds over their shared love for tea, spending time together tasting, discussing, and purchasing tea, with Liubao tea always being the central topic of conversation. For many Southeast Asian tea enthusiasts, the cup of tea holds not just the rich and aromatic Liubao tea but also encapsulates the diverse social dynamics and sentiments of their homeland. Because Liubao tea, through its export along the ancient tea ship route in Southeast Asia, has witnessed the region's changes over more than a century and become deeply ingrained in the daily lives of local Chinese communities.…

Tea, this ancient and magical beverage, carries boundless charm and depth. Through my affinity with tea, I gradually grew to love drinking it after initially being involved in its production. Over time, this became a habit that I could not easily part with, nurturing a unique sentiment towards tea. Within the plain cup of tea lies an aroma that seems to penetrate one's very core; its distinctive fragrance threads its way into the depths of one's soul. On quiet nights, gently brewing a cup of tea, I watch as the transparent liquid transforms into an amber hue, observing the dried, curled leaves slowly unfurl in the water as if reborn, gradually becoming plump and smooth, revealing a fresh green hue once again. This process evokes a sense of rebirth, a revival and awakening of emotions. I have a particular fondness for tea. In my eyes, the subtle shade of fresh green is far more charming than the bustling, colorful world. I appreciate the gentle sensation, temporarily stepping away from the noisy crowd, walking briskly, confident and carefree. Bathing alone in sunlight or sitting quietly under moonlight, unbound, self-reliant, and without restraint, my thoughts take flight like wings, soaring higher and…

In the eleventh year of Chongzhen (1638 AD), in May, Xu Xiake entered Yunnan from Guizhou, marking the final chapter of his life's travels. For him, perhaps the most memorable thing about Yunnan was the availability of excellent tea everywhere he went, "sufficient to console the traveler." In *Xu Xiake's Travel Notes*, he recorded over 80 tea-related events during his journey, nearly 60 of which took place in Yunnan. This reflects the popularity of tea drinking in Ming Dynasty Yunnan. Not long after his Yunnan travels, in the fourteenth year of Chongzhen (1641 AD), Xu Xiake passed away in his hometown Jiangyin. Three years later, Qing troops crossed the pass, and the Ming-Qing dynastic change began, with warfare quickly spreading to Yunnan. From the rebellion of the local chieftain Sha Dingzhou in the second year of Shunzhi (1645 AD) to the Qing forces' pacification of Yunnan in the first year of Kangxi (1662 AD), and finally the suppression of Wu Sangui's rebellion in the twentieth year of Kangxi (1681 AD), the continuous warfare for almost 40 years had long erased the prosperity of tea culture that Xu Xiake had described. It wasn't until the Qianlong era that Pu'er tea from…

Hunan native Ye Dehui (1864-1927) wrote a poem about tea titled "A Poetic Response to Elder Wuyuan Ming's Sitting Session, in the Same Rhyme, Dedicated to Wei Zhai." From the title, we can infer that this poem was inspired by a tea session and chat with Elder Guyi. "Elder Guyi" refers to Li Guyi. Wei Zhai is Fei Shun, who comes from a prominent Suzhou family; his father-in-law is Wu Dajin, and his cousin-in-law is Liu Yazhi. His circle of friends includes Yunnan native Li Genyuan. "Who will drive away the demon of sleep? The tea god Lu Yu sends two mandarin ducks flying." These lines refer to using tea to stay alert and dispel drowsiness. "Two mandarin ducks" refer to a pair of waterfowl. "Flying mandarin ducks" alludes to Wang Qiao of the Han dynasty, who served as a county magistrate and was known for his magical abilities, including the ability to ride a pair of mandarin ducks to meet the emperor regularly. The phrase "flying mandarin ducks" is often used to describe a county magistrate taking office or leaving it. Mentioning the tea deity Lu Yu indicates the use of tea to ward off the demon of sleep.…

In summer, sunlight like golden silk drapes over the earth, and all things bask in this intense sunlight, as if telling the story of life.In this season full of vitality, a cup of clear tea seems to open another door to life, leading us into a tranquil and beautiful world. The emerald green tea leaves flutter up and down in the cup, as if a group of little fairies dancing. The aroma of the tea lingers at the tip of the nose, refreshing the mind and soothing the soul, as if all fatigue is dispelled by this fragrant freshness. Sitting on the balcony at home, holding a cup of tea, enjoying the rare peaceful moments. The elegant tea aroma intertwines with the summer sunshine, as if wrapping you in a cool cloak. You close your eyes, feeling the tea aroma dance on your tongue, like a summer breeze brushing against your cheeks, bringing a hint of coolness. At this moment, you seem cut off from the world, all worries dissipating like smoke. Or perhaps you meet up with a few good friends on a park bench, sipping tea while chatting about life. The black tea in your hand emits a…

Tea, as an integral part of traditional Chinese culture, has been endowed with rich cultural connotations and a variety of elegant names since ancient times. In ancient texts, there are numerous names for tea, but "tea" is the most formal term. Before the mid-Tang Dynasty, the character for "tea" was typically written as "tú," which had multiple meanings, one of which referred to tea leaves. With the flourishing of tea production and the popularization of tea-drinking habits, the frequency of using the name for tea gradually increased. To more clearly express the meaning of tea, folk writers simplified the character "tú," removing one stroke, forming the familiar "tea" character we know today. In the poetry and writings of ancient literati, tea has various nicknames, which not only reflect its diversity but also demonstrate the ancients' love and pursuit of tea culture. Here are some of the nicknames for tea found in ancient poetry: 1. Tú (Tear) "Tú" is the most commonly used character to represent tea in ancient times, first appearing in the Book of Songs. Scholars have differing opinions on whether "tú" refers specifically to tea. Xu Shen, in his "Etymological Dictionary" from the Eastern Han Dynasty, mentions: "Tú,…

The Year of the Dragon has arrived, and many people, after their annual performance reviews, are now faced with the reality of renewing their job responsibility statements. In fact, job responsibility statements are not a modern invention; they date back to the Western Han Dynasty. In the Western Han period, Wang Bao, a native of Zizhong (present-day Ziyang), Sichuan, lived in Chengdu at the home of Yang Hui, a widow. He engaged in a battle of wits with a bearded slave named Bian Liao, writing a document called "Tongyue" for him, initially just to play a prank on the slave who lacked self-awareness. Unintentionally, this act provided the tea world with its first proof that tea was a commodity. This dual achievement was likely unexpected even by Wang Bao himself. Bian Liao demanded that his new master, Wang Bao, clearly specify his duties: "Since it has come to this, you should write down all the tasks I'm expected to do in the contract, just like when Master Yang bought me. Otherwise, I won't do them!" It seems that Bian Liao, perhaps because he couldn't read or knew very little, intended to make things difficult for his new master, whom he…

In early winter 2018, we held a tea gathering in front of the Mogao Caves, titled "Glimmering Light - A Visionary Experience." The tea practitioners scooped up the sand from Mogao and placed it into a glass hourglass. As the hourglass was turned over, the tea ceremony began. Water was poured, tea liquor extracted, served, and sipped. We did not invite many people; just a few tea lovers who had traveled far to sit with us in the desert. The transparent glass frames held tea notes, with sand and wind swirling outside, and the corners of the tea practitioners' robes and their footsteps. The tea wasn't scalding hot, but it still warmed us. Thinking about this tea, I returned again. Yangguan – Flickering Fires in the Wind I've been to Yangguan several times, each time bringing tea and a pot of wine. Zhao Wen carried her zither, saying she would play "Three Stanzas of Yangguan" there. On a clear winter day, the wooden walkway on the Gobi Desert was empty. The brown-red Gobi was protected by the boardwalk, the sandy and gravel ground layered deep and shallow, extending all the way to the horizon. Within these layers, air currents made…

Tea is an ancient and mysterious beverage that carries thousands of years of cultural heritage of the Chinese nation. For many, drinking tea is not just a daily habit but also a way to seek inner peace. In this fast-paced modern society, we are often preoccupied with the minutiae of work and life, leaving little time for a moment’s respite. However, when we lift a cup of tea and savor its flavors, we seem to transcend time and space, returning to a tranquil world. Drinking tea is a pleasure. The moment boiling water meets the leaves, the aroma fills the air, captivating us. The leaves tumble and unfurl in the water, as if narrating an ancient story. We can sense the nuances of the tea – its bitterness, sweetness, and richness – all unique tastes bestowed by nature. Each sip brings different sensations, offering a brief respite from our busy lives. Drinking tea doesn’t require expertise. For most people, the taste and fragrance of tea are paramount. There’s no need to be a tea connoisseur or understand every type’s characteristics and benefits. All one needs is to choose a tea that suits their preference and savor it with intention. The…

Abstract: The origins and legends of Chinese black tea are deeply rooted in the history and culture of China. This article analyzes its origins and history, techniques and processes, quality and characteristics, distribution and production areas, brands and markets, issues and challenges, development and trends, to expound on the history, techniques, charm, and future prospects of Chinese black tea. Due to the limitations of the author, errors are inevitable, so please bear with them (the views expressed herein are those of the author; April 2024). Keywords: China; tea culture; black tea techniques; historical charm; outlook I. Origins and History of Chinese Black Tea 1.1 Origins and Legends of Ancient Black Tea The origins and legends of Chinese black tea are deeply rooted in the history and culture of China. According to historical records, the rudimentary form of black tea can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty, when there were sporadic records about black tea. However, it was during the Song Dynasty that black tea became widely known due to the praise and advocacy of literati. The great Song writer Su Dongpo praised the aroma and flavor of black tea in his poetry, which gradually spread among the literati. There…

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…