Tea is one of the most popular drink around the world and each country has its own way to enjoy this drink. For some, tea is more than just a drink, but it is also a part of tradition, used for relaxation or merely for pleasure. In this article, let us explore together the most popular teas around the world, the traditions paired with it and how each nationality enjoys their cup of happiness.
Tea in China
Tea was introduced by China which was first originated during Shang Dynasty, hence it is no wonder that this drink has become a way of life of Chinese people. Based on the record, China is the biggest tea drinkers all over the world because around 1.6 billion pounds per year is spent by Chinese people to buy a tea. Drinking tea is considered to be a tradition in China wherein the art of making tea is known as “Cha Dao”. The most popular types of tea in China are oolong and jasmine

Tea in Thailand
Thailand has influenced a lot of countries when it comes to making tea because of their unique blend of flavors and delicious Thai Iced Tea called the “cha-yen”. Many of the restaurants and tea shops around the world already serve Cha-yen and it is claimed to be one of the tea lovers’ favorites. The Thai tea is perfect refreshment for a hot tropical weather because of its aromatic flavors added with spices.
Tea in Japan
Same as China, Japan is also a home of tea drinkers and teahouses wherein they are popular for serving the best matcha in the world. If you want to taste an authentic matcha, you have to visit Japan. Up until today, they prepare matcha the same way as it was in the early times by drying and grinding it up until it becomes a fine Matcha tea powder.
The Japanese tea ceremony called “chanoyu” which is all about directing attention to the aesthetics of the process and motions created by hands. During the ceremony, the matcha powder is measured with wooden ladle called “chashaku” and it will be brewed in a tea bowl called “chawan”. Afterwhich, the powder is mixed with water in a bowl using a bamboo whisk.

Tea in South Africa
Did you know that South Africa is the only country that produces Rooibos? This tea is made from an indigenous caffeine-free herb which has been harvested and brewed in the mountainous Cedergerg region for hundred of years. Rooibos is also known as red tea or red bush tea that is red in color and has a bitter taste just like coffee despite being made by a caffeine-free herb.
Tea in Egypt
The most popular tea in Egypt is the Hibiscus tea called Karkade— a refreshing drink made with dried, dark red petals from hibiscus flower. Accordingly, cold Karkade was served to Pharaos during the ancient times for refreshment considering that the country experiences hot desert heat . For North African countries, Karkade plays an important role in their tradition because it is usually served during religious and healing ceremonies.
Now that we have learned how tea is enjoyed around the world and how it plays an important role in the culture and traditions in different countries, it is safe to say that tea is more than just a drink because it also has its own significance.