World Tea Culture

Discover 8 unique tea traditions from countries around the world.

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Afternoon Tea

United Kingdom

Overview

A custom that began in 19th-century British aristocratic society, afternoon tea developed into a social ritual of enjoying black tea alongside scones, sandwiches, and desserts served on a three-tiered tray.

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Tea Ceremony (Chanoyu)

Japan

Overview

A traditional Japanese ritual in which matcha is prepared and served according to formal procedure. It places more importance on the etiquette and spirit behind the process than on the act of drinking tea itself.

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Gongfu Tea

China

Overview

A traditional Chinese tea culture in which leaves are steeped multiple times in a small clay teapot (a yixing pot) and poured out in small portions, savoring how the flavor and aroma change with each infusion.

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Chai

India

Overview

India’s signature tea, made by boiling black tea together with milk and spices like ginger and cardamom. It’s common to drink several cups a day, often from street-side "chai wallah" stalls.

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Mint Tea

Morocco

Overview

A traditional Moroccan tea made with green tea, plenty of fresh mint leaves, and sugar, also famous for the distinctive way it’s poured from high above the glass.

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Samovar Tea

Russia

Overview

A Russian tea culture in which strong black tea concentrate is brewed in a traditional samovar urn and diluted with hot water, often enjoyed sweetened with jam on the side.

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Butter Tea

Tibet

Overview

A traditional high-altitude Tibetan tea made by mixing strong tea with yak butter and salt. Its high calorie content helps maintain body warmth in the cold mountain climate.

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Yuja (Citron) Tea

South Korea

Overview

A traditional Korean tea made by steeping citron preserved in sugar or honey in hot water. Rich in vitamin C, it’s also loved as a winter drink to help prevent colds.

Why does tea culture differ from country to country?

Tea is said to be the second most consumed beverage in the world after water, yet the way it's brewed and what's paired with it has developed uniquely in each country based on climate, history, and lifestyle. Looking at how different countries drink tea offers a glimpse into their social customs and daily rhythms.

Curious about coffee culture too?

If you're curious about coffee culture around the world, check outWorld Coffee Culture too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where did tea originate?

The tea plant is believed to have originated in southwestern China and the Assam region of India, and from there it spread around the world along the Silk Road and other trade routes, blending with local cultures to develop into many different forms.

Can I check caffeine content too?

Yes, if you're curious about the caffeine content of tea and other drinks, check out the Caffeine Calculator.