12 Unique Tea Traditions from Around the World for International Tea Day
Tea brings people together across cultures, each with its own way of preparing and enjoying it. From sweet brews to ceremonial pours, tea is more than just a drink — it’s a part of daily life and tradition. On International Tea Day, let’s travel through 12 unique tea customs from around the globe!
- Tricia Quitales
- 4 min read
Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, but how it’s served and enjoyed varies from country to country. Whether sipped during quiet rituals or shared with guests, tea often reflects a culture’s values and way of life. From the mountains of Tibet to the streets of Morocco, these diverse tea traditions tell rich stories of history, hospitality, and flavor. Explore how different places celebrate tea in their own meaningful ways.
1. Japan – The Art of the Tea Ceremony
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In Japan, the tea ceremony (chanoyu) is a quiet, respectful event focused on harmony and mindfulness. Matcha tea is carefully prepared and served with precise movements. Every gesture is intentional and reflects centuries of tradition.
2. Morocco – Sweet Mint Tea and Hospitality
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Moroccan tea, often made with green tea, fresh mint, and sugar, is served in small glasses. It’s poured from a height to create bubbles and show skill. Offering tea to guests is a strong symbol of hospitality.
3. China – Gongfu Tea Ceremony
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China’s Gongfu tea ceremony emphasizes taste, aroma, and multiple small servings. Special teapots and tiny cups are used to savor every drop. It’s more about quality and appreciation than speed or volume.
4. India – Spiced Chai on Every Corner
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India’s famous masala chai blends black tea with spices like cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon. It’s boiled with milk and sugar, making it rich and comforting. You’ll find it being served everywhere, from homes to roadside stalls.
5. Tibet – Butter Tea for Strength
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Tibetan butter tea, known as po cha, combines tea leaves with yak butter and salt. It’s thick, oily, and perfect for high-altitude living. Locals drink it daily for energy and warmth in the cold mountains.
6. United Kingdom – Afternoon Tea with Sweets
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In the UK, afternoon tea is more than a drink — it’s a meal with finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes. Usually served around 4 p.m., it’s a relaxing social tradition. Black tea with milk is the star of the show.
7. Russia – Tea from the Samovar
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Russians often brew tea in a metal urn called a samovar. Strong tea concentrate is diluted with hot water and often served with lemon or jam. Tea is a daily comfort and a key part of Russian gatherings.
8. Argentina – Sharing Mate with Friends
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Mate is a tea made from yerba mate leaves, sipped from a shared gourd through a metal straw. In Argentina and nearby countries, it’s all about sharing and connecting. The gourd is passed from person to person in a circle.
9. Turkey – Bold Black Tea in Small Glasses
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Turkish tea is strong and served in tulip-shaped glasses without milk. It’s enjoyed all day, whether at home or in busy cafes. Offering tea is a daily gesture of warmth and friendship.
10. Thailand – Sweet Iced Thai Tea
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Thai tea is brewed strong, sweetened with sugar and condensed milk, and then poured over ice. It has a creamy texture and a bright orange color. It’s both refreshing and indulgent, often served with spicy meals.
11. Iran – Tea with Sugar Cubes and Thoughtfulness
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In Iran, black tea is served in delicate glasses alongside sugar cubes or sweets. Many Iranians place a sugar cube in their mouth before sipping the tea. Tea drinking there is slow and thoughtful, often shared during conversation.
12. Mongolia – Salty Milk Tea (Suutei Tsai)
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Mongolian tea, called suite tsai, combines green tea with milk and salt. For a fuller taste, it may also include butter or flour. It’s warming and filling and is part of daily life in nomadic communities.