Vietnamese tea culture, known as "trà đạo," has distinctive characteristics that set it apart.
Historically, it originated from Thai Nguyen tea leaves, a tea reserved for royalty during the Lê dynasty (1428).
This practice reached its peak in the Nguyễn dynasty and eventually became widespread among all social classes.
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For the Vietnamese, learning about trà đạo is more than fostering relationships; it symbolizes cultural respect and ethical values in daily life.
The art of brewing tea in Vietnam is unique, requiring knowledge of the tools, temperature control, and water source to preserve the tea's distinct flavor.
High-quality, fragrant teas play a crucial role in enhancing the appeal of Vietnamese tea culture.
Unlike the elaborate tea sets of neighboring countries, Vietnamese tea sets are simple, typically consisting of a teapot, cups, a tray, a stand, and a stove, often made from clay, glass, or metal.
An ideal Vietnamese tea session includes warm candlelight, soothing incense, and fresh flowers.
In Vietnamese tea culture, there are no strict rules about formality; the focus is on savoring the tea's unique flavors and sharing warm, everyday stories.