Tea is a culture that has come a long way, spreading across cultures over thousands of years. Tea is made from a specific plant species known as “Camellia Sinensis”. Did you know that tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, after water? Let's explore the amazing culture and tea plantations of Asia.
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Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, after water.
Tea Culture in Indonesia
Teh Botol Sosro, iconic in Indonesia
In Indonesia, tea culture is very popular. Most Indonesians drink tea in their own way. You could say that tea is the main drink of Indonesian people and they like to serve tea as before, either in cups, clay glasses, as cold drinks, hot tea, sweet tea, or plain plain tea. Drinking tea in Indonesia does not refer to a specific time.
Tea brands in Indonesia include Sosro, SariWangi, Tong Tji, and Lipton.
Teh Botol Sosro is an iconic tea drink from Indonesia and is sold all over the world. This Teh Botol Sosro started to gain popularity after promoting its slogan "Whatever the food, the drink is Teh Botol Sosro"
The traditional Japanese tea ceremony, also known as Chanoyu or Sado, is rooted in the principles of Zen Buddhism and has spread to various walks of life in Japanese society. The tea ceremony is practiced according to ancient rituals, with great care and careful attention to each drink. Learn how to serve and appreciate tea by participating in a ceremony at one of the many traditional teahouses, shrines, and ryokan guesthouses throughout Japan.
Long Jing (Dragon's Well) tea village and plantation is located southwest of Hangzhou's famous West Lake. The green tea produced here is considered to be China's finest, with a strong aroma, bright color and mellow taste. Visiting this tea village allows you not only to learn about the cultivation and production of tea, but also to admire the magical scenery of the verdant hills.
Tea Culture in Singapore
The atmosphere of tea in a restaurant in Singapore / Public domain (CC0)
Tea culture is very much alive and thriving in a cosmopolitan and multicultural city like Singapore. In Singapore, Chinese tea is a classic tea enjoyed by many for its taste and health benefits. Local favorites include Teh (tea with condensed milk), which is commonly found at Kopitiam (traditional coffee shops), and bubble tea, which has a wide variety of ingredients and toppings. For a luxurious tea experience, TWG Tea offers a large collection of indulgent afternoon tea blends, accompanied by sweet treats such as macaroni and jelly.
Tea Culture in Malaysia
Boh Tea plantation in Cameron Highlands in Malaysia / Boh Tea
Located 1,500 meters above sea level, Cameron Highlands is the largest tea plantation area in Malaysia. Spread over 480 hectares of hills, Boh Tea plantations in Malaysia are the most prolific black tea producers in Malaysia. Visitors can take free guided tours, learn about the art of tea making, enjoy the cool mountain air, and sip a hot cup of tea in the teahouse overlooking the endless hills. For a productive afternoon, you can even pick your own fresh strawberries at a nearby farm!
Tea Culture in India
Local tea shop barista preparing Chai tea drinks in India / Chaika
India is one of the largest producers and consumers in the world, with the main producing areas in the states of Assam, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. More than 80% of Indian tea is consumed domestically, with varieties ranging from rich breakfast teas and malts to the locally flavored milk drink known as Masala Chai. Roadside taverns can be found on every corner and are excellent places to enjoy a refreshing drink. The blend of herbs and spices gives you a burst of flavor with every sip.
