History of Tea

Japan

Japan is a country that has become synonymous with the words "tea ceremony".  The very first remnants of tea are said to be the product of a traveling Buddhist priest.  This man in known as the "Father of Tea" in Japan.  This famous Buddhist priest discovered the value of tea in his travels throughout China.  This association with Buddhism, becomes a foundation for the traditional tea ceremony in Japan being so closely associated with Zen Buddhism.  As mentioned, over time the tea ceremony in Japan became a detailed art form.  So much so, that special "tea houses" became popular as a result of this ceremonial development.  The Japanese tea ceremony is quoted to be so important that only the most strictest manners possible be used to perform the tea ceremony.  Over time, as with most arts, the traditions and intentions of the original art faded.  The original concepts of the tea ceremony became mute and became a sport for the which the nobles could compete.  However, a few famous individuals preserved and renewed the traditional tea concepts that continue to exist today.