The origins of tea stretch back thousands of years to ancient China, where it was first consumed as medicine before evolving into a daily ritual and social art form. During the Tang and Song Dynasties, tea culture flourished in poetry, philosophy, and visual art. It was during this time that serving tea became more than refreshment—it became a practice of harmony, purity, and inner calm.

As tea spread to neighbouring countries, it was embraced and reinterpreted. In Japan, the tea ceremony (chanoyu) developed into a refined spiritual discipline influenced by Zen Buddhism. In Korea, the Darye (“etiquette for tea”) emphasised naturalness, respect, and quiet joy. In China, various tea traditions (like Gongfu Cha) remain active today, combining skillful brewing with attentive hospitality.

Through these diverse forms, the essence of the Tea Ceremony remains unchanged: a moment to pause, to connect with others, and to find beauty in the simple act of making tea. It’s not about performance—it’s about presence.