Old Chinese proverb and tea ceremony: "To do a good job, you need good tools."

Tea ceremony as an art

The Chinese tea ceremony is not just a process of brewing tea, it is a whole ritual filled with symbolism and aesthetics. Every movement, every gesture has its own meaning and conveys a deep sense. In order to conduct a perfect ceremony, it is necessary not only to know the intricacies of preparing different types of tea, but also to have high-quality tools.

The Role of Instruments in the Tea Ceremony

• Teapot. The heart of the tea ceremony: its shape, material and size affect the taste and aroma of the drink. Traditionally, clay or porcelain teapots are used. Teapot is a Russian word. The root of the word: "tea" is a word borrowed from the Chinese language, which denotes the drink that we are accustomed to calling tea. The suffix "-nik" usually indicates belonging to something or the purpose of an object. In this case, it indicates that this object is intended for tea. Thus, a "teapot" is a vessel intended for brewing tea.

• Gaiwan (Chinese: 盖碗, pinyin: Gàiwǎn) is a versatile vessel consisting of a bowl, lid, and saucer that is used in the Chinese tea ceremony for brewing and drinking tea. Literally, "gai" means "lid" and "wan" means "bowl".

• Chaban (Chinese: 茶盘, pinyin: chábǎn) is an integral element of the traditional Chinese tea ceremony, which can be compared to the basis for the entire action. In essence, it is a small wooden or stone board with a tray on which all the tea utensils are placed.

• Tea accessories. All kinds of tea figurines or toys , tweezers, spoons, strainers – all these tools help to create the atmosphere of a tea ceremony, as well as carefully handle tea leaves and maintain cleanliness.

Choosing a teapot for a tea ceremony is a real art that depends on many factors: the type of tea, personal preferences and, of course, traditions.

Essential Materials for Dummies

• Yixing clay. Perhaps the most popular material for teapots, especially in China. It has a unique ability to “remember” the taste of tea, improving it with each new brewing. Ideal for pu-erhs and oolongs.

• Porcelain. A versatile material that does not react with tea and preserves its original taste. Perfect for green and white teas.

• Ceramic: A more affordable option than Yixing clay, ceramic teapots come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and many have beautiful decorative qualities.

• Glass. Allows you to observe the process of brewing tea. Well suited for light, aromatic teas.

• Cast iron. It retains heat well, which is important for some types of tea. However, cast iron teapots require careful maintenance.

Choosing a teapot is an individual decision that depends on your personal preferences and tastes. The main thing is that the teapot brings you joy and helps you enjoy the tea drinking process.

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• Work surface. The chaban serves as a convenient surface for all manipulations with tea: rinsing teapots, warming cups, pouring tea.

• Liquid collection: The chabani tray collects water that drips from the dishes during the ceremony, keeping the work area clean.

• Aesthetic function. The chaban is not just a functional element, but also a decoration of the tea room. Its design can be very diverse, from simple to elegant, with various ornaments and patterns.

• Creating an atmosphere. Chaban helps to create a special atmosphere during the tea ceremony, emphasizing its importance and solemnity.

A chaban is not just a piece of furniture, it is a symbol of harmony and unity. It is where man interacts with nature, when tea leaves reveal their aroma and taste. A chaban is the place where the tea ceremony is born and lives. By choosing the right chaban, you will not only make the tea ceremony more comfortable and aesthetically attractive, but also emphasize your respect for the ancient traditions of tea drinking.

Why a gaiwan and not a mug?

Gaiwan is not just a cup, but a whole world focused on revealing the taste and aroma of tea. Its unique design and functionality make it an indispensable tool in the Chinese tea ceremony.

• Aroma concentration: Due to the small volume and the absence of a handle, the aroma of the tea is concentrated in the gaiwan, creating a richer and more vibrant sensation.

• Temperature. The gaiwan heats up quickly, which allows you to maintain the optimal temperature for brewing different types of tea.

• Aesthetics. Gaiwans often have an elegant shape and decoration, which makes the tea drinking process even more enjoyable.

• Tradition. The use of gaiwan in the tea ceremony goes back to ancient times and is an integral part of Chinese tea culture. You can not only drink tea from a gaiwan, but even brew it.

Gaiwan allows you to fully immerse yourself in the brewing process and enjoy all the nuances of the taste and aroma of the drink. If you want to get maximum pleasure from tea drinking, then gaiwan is what you need.

So why are good tools so important?

• Preservation of taste and aroma. High-quality tools allow you to fully reveal the taste and aromatic properties of tea.

• Aesthetic pleasure. Beautiful and functional tools make the tea ceremony even more enjoyable.

• Respect for tradition: Using traditional instruments is a tribute to ancient Chinese culture.

In this day and age, with so many modern tea brewing gadgets available, it is important to remember the traditional tools and their importance. Combining old and new technologies creates a unique tea drinking experience that satisfies both lovers of the classics and those looking for a new experience.

The proverb "To do a good job, you need good tools" is entirely applicable to the Chinese tea ceremony. Quality tools not only help create the perfect drink, but also make the tea drinking process more conscious and enjoyable. Ultimately, the tea ceremony is not just a process of preparing a drink, it is an art that requires skill, attention to detail and, of course, good tools.