Since ancient times, China has been known as a land of etiquette, and 'entertaining guests with tea' has always been a common courtesy in both daily social interactions and family life. Understanding and mastering the etiquette of tea-serving not only demonstrates respect for family, friends and guests, but also reflects one's own good manners.
The Etiquette of Brewing Tea
'Is it not a joy to have friends come from afar?' When friends and colleagues visit one's home, it is customary for the host to brew a pot of tea for their guests as a mark of courtesy. There is much to learn about brewing tea, and there are numerous etiquette rules to observe both before and during the process.
Etiquette Regarding Appearance Before Brewing Tea
Before brewing tea, the host must wash their hands thoroughly, ensuring they are free from any unpleasant odours. After washing their hands, they must not touch any other objects. Furthermore, fingernails must not be too long, and nail varnish must not be worn, as this may give guests the impression of uncleanliness. In addition to their hands, the host must also pay attention to their hair, make-up and attire. Hair should be neatly combed, preferably tied back, and must not be fiddled with during the tea-brewing process; make-up should be kept to a minimum or avoided altogether, and heavy make-up or the use of perfume must be strictly avoided; attire should be simple and elegant, harmonising with the overall setting.
Preparation of Tea Ware
Before brewing tea, clean tea-brewing utensils must be prepared and arranged neatly; cups must be free of tea stains, impurities,
fingerprints and the like.
Etiquette for Serving Tea
A tea spoon and a tea scoop are often used when measuring out tea. Both can be used separately or in combination; here,
we shall illustrate the etiquette for serving tea using the tea spoon and tea scoop as examples. The specific procedure is as follows: hold the opened tea container with your left hand, ensuring the opening faces to the right, and position it above the tea scoop; Next, with your right hand, using your thumb, index finger and middle finger, lift the lid and reach into the tea caddy to scoop the tea leaves into the tea scoop; ensure the tea leaves are well-distributed, then use your left hand to support the tea scoop whilst your right hand holds the tea spoon to transfer the tea leaves into the brewing vessel. This completes the process of retrieving the tea.
Etiquette for Brewing Tea
Whilst brewing tea, the person preparing the tea should avoid speaking as much as possible, as the breath can affect the tea's aroma and hinder the release of its properties; when inhaling the aroma, one should only inhale, and may only exhale after moving the tea leaves or teaware out of the way; hygiene should be observed throughout the brewing process, and one should not touch the tea leaves or the brewed tea directly with one's hands.
