Have you ever brewed a cup of tea? Picture this: delicate leaves floating and unfurling in a pristine porcelain bowl, resembling the graceful movements of a sparrow. A soft wisp of steam carries the aromatic essence of tea, steeped in thousands of years of rich cultural heritage.

Tea, a treasured plant originating from southern China, encourages us to delve deeper than just its “color, aroma, and flavor.” It invites us to explore its profound “qi, spirit, and essence.” Through tea, we weave narratives and philosophies, with this remarkable Eastern leaf serving as a messenger of Chinese traditional culture. In our contemporary world, tea fosters an atmosphere of tranquility and elegance, playing a vital role in civilizational dialogue.

In April 2023, tea farmers from the Xinyang New World Cooperative in Henan were hard at work harvesting Xinyang Maojian tea. President Xi Jinping has repeatedly highlighted the significance of preserving, inheriting, and advancing tea culture. He emphasizes the cultural importance of tea, illustrating the harmonious relationship between humanity and nature, and promoting values in international relations that support unity amidst diversity and collaborative growth.

In a congratulatory letter for “International Tea Day” celebrations on May 21, 2020, President Xi noted that the establishment of this day by the United Nations recognizes the global significance of tea, vital for revitalizing the tea industry and promoting its culture. He stated, “As a major producer and consumer of tea, China is eager to work with all parties to advance the sustainable development of the global tea industry and enhance cultural exchanges and mutual learning, enabling more people to understand, appreciate, and cherish tea.”

A cup of “Chinese tea” has become an essential medium for sharing and promoting Chinese culture. The ancient text “Shennong Bencao Jing” observes, “Shennong tasted every herb; he encountered seventy-two poisons and found relief in tea.” The history of tea drinking in China traces back to the Qin Dynasty, with Gu Yanwu noting in “Rizhi Lu” that tea drinking began after the Qin dynasty unified Shu.

The Tang Dynasty saw the revered “Tea Sage,” Lu Yu, publish “The Classic of Tea,” a comprehensive treatise documenting the origins, preparation, and serving of tea. This work stands as the earliest and most thorough exposition of tea, not just in China but worldwide, elevating tea culture to new heights and marking the formal establishment of Chinese tea culture, earning it the title of “the encyclopedia of tea.”

From the Tang and Song Dynasties onward, tea drinking became incredibly popular among all segments of society. Wang Anshi captured its importance, stating, “For the people, tea is as essential as rice and salt; one cannot be without it for a day.” Poets like Su Shi and Lu You also celebrated tea in their works, reflecting its integral role in Chinese traditional culture.

Over the centuries, tea has become deeply woven into the fabric of daily life, acting as a crucial vehicle for cultural transmission. Customs surrounding tea—growing, picking, crafting, and enjoying—are firmly rooted in Chinese society and shared among various ethnic groups.

With diverse local climates nurturing distinct flavors, tea masters apply essential techniques such as withering, fermentation, and scenting to create six main categories of tea: green, yellow, black, white, oolong, and red, along with fragrant teas. China’s extensive tea gardens boast over 2,000 varieties, each showcasing unique aromas and flavors.

Chinese tea culture is rich and profound, embodying values such as hospitality and respect for elders while exemplifying the gentle spirit of the Chinese people. As tea culture merges into everyday life, it communicates a refined appreciation for both life and our global community.

The words of English poet Lord Byron in “Don Juan” affirm the historical allure of Chinese tea culture in Europe. From the Tang and Song Dynasties onward, tea and its culture spread across the globe via the Silk Road and Tea Horse Road. The East India Company introduced tea to King Charles II in 1664, quickly captivating the European aristocracy with its reputation as a medicinal drink and refreshing beverage. Classic literature, including “Pride and Prejudice,” immortalizes tea as a key component of social life during that era.

Today, tea continues to transcend borders, providing a fresh medium for sharing Chinese stories. Globally, tea acts as a bridge that fosters discussions about the future of the tea industry. With the growth of transoceanic trade, the expansion of tea-producing regions, and increased production, a new trend in tea drinking has emerged in the East and West, embracing additions like sugar and milk or pairing with pastries, exemplifying a harmonious “unity in diversity.”

On May 21, 2019, the United Nations General Assembly recognized this day as “International Tea Day,” underscoring tea’s significant role in global trade and culture. Additionally, in November 2022, “Traditional Chinese Tea-making Techniques and Related Customs” were added to the UNESCO representative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In September 2023, the “Ancient Tea Forest Cultural Landscape of Jingmai” was designated as the first tea-themed world cultural heritage site, further showcasing the unique charm and global impact of Chinese culture, as well as its contribution to human civilization’s diversity.

From tiny tea buds grow grand trees; a thousand years of tea traditions continue to thrive today. The rich and sweet essence of Chinese tea stands as a testament to 5,000 years of civilization, imparting values of humility and respect to the world. The cultural confidence and allure embedded in the fragrance of tea will surely resonate with more people worldwide, inspiring even greater collaboration in fostering diverse civilizations.