Tea isn’t just a drink; it’s a tradition that people worldwide partake in at any given moment for pleasure, relaxation, and spirituality. It dates back well into the B.C. era, with tea traditions around the world developing their own unique flavors and meaning behind the ritual of drinking a cup of tea. If you’re curious how tea is enjoyed around the world, we’ve explored tea-drinking cultures from Japan to Britain.

Japan

The teahouses in Japan specialize in Matcha tea. Matcha is dried until it becomes a bright, fine green powder and then made into a drink. Japan’s tea is often used in “Chado,” which is a traditional ceremony that means “Way of Tea.” This gathering is very spiritual and requires the host to spend much time reviewing all the proper movements and gestures needed to complete the ceremony.

China

China is the culture that introduced the world to tea. Tea is often an essential part of life for Chinese people. There are hundreds of different teas types because of the diverse climate available in their country that can produce tons of different kinds of teas.

Some of the most popular teas in China include Gunpowder, Jasmine, and Oolong. However, Huangshan Moafeng tea, or green tea, is the number one tea drink in China. Chinese teas are linked with their philosophies of enjoyment, fulfillment, harmony, and balance, otherwise known as “Cha Doa,” the art of making tea. 

India

India consumes and produces more tea than any other country in the world. The most popular tea drink in China is called the Chia, a black tea featuring cloves, cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. It has been wildly popular for hundreds of years and is the first tea offered to a guest entering an Indian home.

Chaiwallahs, otherwise known as Chai vendors and sellers, are a significant part of Indian culture. Their stands always have news for the locals and are considered centers for gossip.

Britain

Tea in Britain is just as important in their culture as the royal family, cricket or fish, and chips. From builders brew found at a local store or a teashop selling scones and Earl Gray, most people love to drink a hot tea beverage. The most popular teas in the country include black teas, followed by Oolong, Earl Gray, and Herbal teas. It is said that there are over 165 million cups of tea drunk every day in the U.K.

Thailand

If you haven’t had a Cha-Yen, or a Thai iced tea, you’re seriously missing out. It’s a drink made from strongly brewed black tea, typically served over ice, and is one of the most popular beverages available in Thailand restaurants. Spice and aromatic flavors are added to the tea, such as tamarind, star anise, cinnamon, and orange blossom. The drink has a licorice aroma and is floral but sweet. This beverage is best enjoyed on a hot day or to accompany warm food.

Tea drinking is a special tradition found worldwide. Waking up and smelling a fresh cup of tea is a feeling many enjoy. With its immune-boosting properties and ability to help your body detox or lose weight, you can’t go wrong. Try each variety of tea from different cultures to find your favorite blend.