Most Chinese traditions are related to etiquette and ceremonies. Chinese people are distinguished by such qualities as persistence, perseverance, diligence, hospitality, respect, and patience. Therefore, when traveling to this country, you will learn a lot of new and interesting things, because the customs and culture of China are very unique.
So, the first thing you will see, and which no other country has, is the tea ceremony. It occupies a special place in the life of the Chinese. It is not just drinking a beverage; through it, the Chinese achieve inner harmony and enjoyment. To reach the pinnacle of bliss, the inhabitants of the Celestial Empire use many different ways of brewing tea. The ceremony itself is accompanied by melodious music, a cozy atmosphere, and proper utensils.
Each season corresponds to a certain type of tea. In summer, green tea is usually drunk; in spring, flower tea; in autumn, young green tea; and in winter, black tea. And so, tea drinking is arranged:
– As a sign of respect. The family of older relatives invites to a restaurant for a cup of tea.
– When you need to apologize. The apologizing person pours tea for the person they want to apologize to.
– As an occasion for a family gathering. The ceremony emphasizes the importance of family values.
– Wedding tea ceremony. The bride and groom, kneeling, serve tea to their parents.
There is also a tradition of thanking for tea. If you want to thank the person who poured you tea, tap the table three times with your bent index and middle fingers. This custom is especially common in Southern China.
If cakes or pastries are served with tea, you cannot take them with your hands from a common plate – you must use utensils. But cookies, dry pastries, and wafers are allowed to be taken by hand.
During tea drinking, you cannot watch TV – this may offend the hosts. At the end of the tea drinking, you should thank the hosts and invite them to your place.
These are traditions related to tea drinking. But there are many others, so before traveling to China, it is worth familiarizing yourself with them to avoid accidentally offending local residents. In this, a series of books Encounters will help you, which you can purchase in the online store AsianBooks.ru. And then the journey will turn into an unforgettable adventure in this exotic country.
_