The Japanese love their tea. So much so, they hold full-on tea ceremonies to celebrate it. These sacred events are even hosted by tea masters who train for years to perfect their technique. So what’s it all about?
The Way Of Tea
Called Chanoyu in Japan, the ceremony literally means the Way of Tea. While the Japanese have been drinking green tea since the fourth century, it wasn’t until the eighth century that the tradition of formal tea ceremonies began. With roots in Zen philosophy, the idea is to remove yourself from the modern world by seeking harmony and inner peace – over a cup of tea.
Be Your Own Tea Master
Hosting your own (modern, less formal) version of a Japanese Tea Ceremony is a fun thing to do with friends. You don’t need years of training (phew!), just a few simple items and ideas to get things started.
What You Need
1. Tea – Matcha is the traditional choice but there are hundreds of different tea blends that will work just as well.
Try refreshing Lipton® Peach Mango Herbal Tea, or Lipton® Green Tea with Mandarin Orange. If you do want to stick with tradition, Lipton® Magnificent Matcha Ginger, it is a fiery, earthy tea perfect for adding some spice to your modern tea ceremony.