The exact origins of tea's presence on Earth remain a mystery, and it is uncertain how many tea varieties exist worldwide. However, there is a universally acknowledged truth: tea has become an integral part of life. This is why tea stands as the second most popular beverage, only following water.
Whether in the East or West, grown on high mountains or gentle hills, all tea types across the globe are derived from the tea plant (Camellia Sinensis – of the Theaceae family). This plant usually thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.
The tea plant (Camellia Sinensis) is a woody shrub, pruned to a manageable height for easy harvesting.
The tea plant is a woody shrub, pruned to a manageable height for easy harvesting. However, there are ancient tea trees in the northeastern regions bordering China that can reach several meters in height.
Not widely known, tea also contains a certain amount of caffeine. Although tea doesn't provide the same stimulating effect as coffee, the sensation it offers to those who indulge in it is one of tranquility, purity, and mindfulness. Furthermore, tea contains numerous health-beneficial components with minimal adverse effects.
Tea's Flourishing Period in China
In the vast nation's history, spanning the Western Zhou dynasty (1122 BCE – 249 BCE), the Qin dynasty (221 BCE – 206 BCE), and the Han dynasty (202 BCE – 220 CE), tea was regarded as a luxury commodity, exclusive to the royal and noble classes. In fact, at times, tea symbolized reverence and solemnity.
During the Tang dynasty (618 – 907 CE), marked by influential power and control over wealth, Chinese tea and tea culture experienced a significant expansion.
One of the key contributors to tea's growth during that era were the traders of the time. Wherever they ventured, Chinese traders introduced tea to those places.
The Tang dynasty was one of the most culturally flourishing periods in Chinese history. Evidences include achievements in literature, arts, poetry, and painting. Tea was no exception.
The art of tea extended beyond simply sipping it; it became a form of performance.
During this era, tea not only had to meet exceptionally high standards, but everything related to tea, including teapots, cups, water, utensils, and tea boxes, had to be of superior quality.
Furthermore, the art of tea during this time ascended to new heights, becoming not just about sipping tea but also a form of performance. Tea preparation techniques became expressive, known as tea kungfu.
Importantly, this cultural flourishing extended not only domestically but also marked the period when China began to globally present its grand tea culture.
Tea's Journey to Japan - Becoming the Revered Way of Tea
According to many sources, during the Tang dynasty, numerous Zen Buddhist monks from Japan traveled to China for spiritual practice, bringing tea plants back with them. However, during this time, tea was still not widely known, and its consumption remained a symbol of luxury among the aristocracy.
It wasn't until the late 16th century that the practice of tea consumption combined with Zen philosophies truly established itself as a distinct Japanese way of tea. This marked the first step in the development of Japan's tea culture.
Due to its association with Zen, Japanese tea consumption and space hold distinct differences compared to other nations.
For the Japanese, the tea-making process is a means of cleansing the soul by immersing oneself in nature, cultivating the mind, and achieving enlightenment. Consequently, Japanese tea preparation involves numerous principles, which, if not understood, render the experience incomplete.
The space dedicated to tea in Japanese culture is often a simple room, furnished with only the essentials for tea preparation and enjoyment. Decorations are minimal, with perhaps a few seasonal flowers. The Japanese maximize the space to promote a serene mind while partaking in tea and spiritual insight.
As society evolved, some individuals opted to use their gardens for tea ceremonies, but the number of participants remained limited. This practice was to ensure the host's attentive service and prevent distractions, cultivating a sense of mindfulness among all attendees.
While tea experienced its peak development in the East, how did it journey to the West? Doanhnhan.vn will deliver the next part titled "Tea's Venture to the West" to help readers delve deeper into the roots of tea.
The above is an article by Eastern culture researcher - Nguyen Huu Hong Ky, Chairman of Hong Ky Tea. We thank the Doanh Nhan Magazine for publishing this article on their platform.
