Chinese tea history

Chinese tea history dates back over 5,000 years, with legends attributing its discovery to Emperor Shen Nong. Initially valued for medicinal properties, tea became a cultural staple during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), leading to the development of tea ceremonies. By the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), tea drinking flourished with distinctive styles emerging. The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) saw the rise of loose-leaf tea, while the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) introduced iconic varieties like green and black tea. Today, tea is integral to Chinese culture, symbolizing hospitality, tradition, and social connection, and has influenced global tea practices.