Teekulttuuri

Teekulttuuri refers to the customs, traditions, and social practices surrounding the preparation, serving, and consumption of tea. It encompasses a wide range of behaviors and rituals that vary significantly across different cultures and regions. In many parts of the world, tea is more than just a beverage; it is an integral part of daily life, social gatherings, and even religious ceremonies. The way tea is brewed, the types of teaware used, the accompanying snacks or meals, and the etiquette observed during tea drinking are all elements of teekulttuuri.

In East Asia, for example, the Japanese tea ceremony, known as Chanoyu, is a highly formalized and aesthetic practice that emphasizes mindfulness and harmony. Similarly, Chinese teahouses have historically served as important social hubs, and the Gongfu cha ceremony is a meticulous method of preparing and serving oolong tea. In Britain, afternoon tea and high tea are established traditions, often involving elaborate spreads of sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Russia has its own tradition of tea drinking, often from a samovar, which plays a significant role in hospitality. The appreciation of tea involves not only the taste and aroma but also the sensory experience of the ritual itself, contributing to its enduring cultural significance.