5 Countries with a Rich Tea Culture to Visit in 2025

Since ancient times, tea has had a special place in the lives of many people all over the world. In many countries, drinking tea is etched in everyday life, while in others, it is known as a symbol of hospitality, relaxation, and even historical and cultural traditions. Over time, brewing methods, consumption, and the concept of tea have taken different forms and changed significantly among communities.

In this article, we will take a look at the five countries with rich tea culture: countries that have established a deep relationship with this hot drink from a cultural point of view and are fantastic tourist destinations if you are a tea aficionado.

#1 India

In India, one of the largest tea producers in the world, tea plays a fundamental role in people’s daily lives. There are local tea stalls called Chaiwala in every alley and street, which serve hot tea to their customers in small glasses.

India is the home of several tasty herbal tea blends, perfect choices if you’re replacing black tea with herbal tea. One of the most famous and well-known tea drinks in India is Masala Chai, which is a combination of black tea, milk, sugar, and a collection of hot spices such as cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.

This drink not only has a fantastic and novel taste, but is also a symbol of the rich culture and hospitality of the Indians. The teas of Darjeeling and Assam, which are produced in the north and northeast of India, are very famous worldwide and are known as high-quality teas in the international markets as well.

#2 Iran

In Iran, tea is an integral part of social life. Tea consumption is common in homes, workplaces, parties, coffee houses, and even in religious and family ceremonies. Iranians usually drink black tea in istikan teacups, commonly with sugar cubes, sugar candy, pastries, dried berries, or dates. They use natural sweeteners like honey, too, but it’s less common among Iranians.

In Iranian culture, tea is a symbol of respect and intimacy. Reception with tea is the first act of the host to welcome the guest. However, the history of tea cultivation in Iran dates back to the Qajar Dynasty era. At that time, Kashif al-Sultaneh brought tea seeds from India to Iran and built the first tea fields in the Lahijan region. Today, Lahijan tea is considered one of the most popular Iranian teas.

#3 China

China, a country with a several-thousand-year history, is the main origin of tea in the world. In China, tea was originally used as medicine, but over time turned into an everyday drink for people. But in Chinese culture, drinking tea is more than a daily habit. It is a philosophy of life. The traditional ceremony of Gong Fu Cha is an example of the careful and calm Chinese approach to tea drinking, where brewing tea, pouring it into a cup, and even the way to sit are all part of a ritual.

Green tea, oolong, white, and yellow tea are common types of tea in China, and each has its a special preparation techniques and brewing methods. And, the most important thing, almost all Chinese people drink tea without sugar to enjoy the natural taste of tea leaves. This is the healthiest way to drink tea.

#4 Türkiye

In Türkiye, tea is the national non-alcoholic drink, served on almost every occasion and in all restaurants and cafes across the country. Friendly meetings, ceremonies, business conversations, and political debates in local tea houses find their true meaning only when Turkish tea is there.

Turkish tea is usually served in small, tulip-shaped glasses called Isteakan with sugar or sugar cubes on the side. But if you drink Turkish tea with Baklava, Türkiye’s famous pastry, the taste is out of this world.

Tea hospitality is taken very seriously in Turkey. Even in stores and markets, you may be offered tea while shopping. Coffee houses and tea houses are also common and famous places to spend leisure time and talk. Most of the tea consumed in Türkiye is produced in the Rize region on the coast of the Black Sea, and local brands such as Çaykur are among the most popular tea brands in the country.

#5 United Kingdom

Tea in the United Kingdom is not only a popular drink, but also part of the British culture. Tea was introduced to the United Kingdom in the 17th century, and since then, it has become a cornerstone of the nation’s culture, especially among royal families, aristocrats, and upper-class people.

The famous tradition of Afternoon Tea dates back to the Victorian era and is still one of the symbols of British culture. This ceremony consists of drinking tea with biscuits, cakes, or small sandwiches. The British mostly drink black tea, usually with milk and sugar. Brands such as Earl Grey, English Breakfast, and Yorkshire Tea are among the most popular among Brits.

Conclusion

In different countries, tea is not only a common drink. Every country has its own style of drinking tea, and these styles have become a part of people’s culture and social behavior. In India, as we said above, tea is brewed with various spices and is a sign of hospitality. In Iran, tea is always present along with conversations, family gatherings, and parties. In China, tea is relaxing and is brewed with care and concentration. In Türkiye, this popular drink can be seen everywhere on the street and in coffee shops, and is an excuse to talk and socialize with others. In the UK, tea is always on the table, both at work and at friendly parties. All these differences show a similarity that tea plays an important role in bringing people together. Drinking tea helps people sit still for a moment, talk, and feel better. Maybe that’s why tea still holds its place in many homes and friendly gatherings and is the main part of people’s daily life.