Practical Manners and Etiquette For Tea Around the World

How do you show respect when taking tea — in Japan? How about India or England? Tea etiquette around the world varies depending on social customs and culture. Tea is so deeply rooted and intertwined in local tradition and proper manners can show your host respect and honor.

If you find yourself traveling abroad, it’s best to get acquainted with some of these beautiful traditions so you can treat your hosts politely — and so you don’t accidentally insult someone. Tea is taken very seriously and you want your reputation to remain unscathed. 

We’ll explore a few basic rules to follow when having tea in Japan, England, and India. While these rules aren’t all-inclusive they are a good place to start. If you travel, be sure to do some extensive research so you can show your respect and appreciation for all of the hard work that goes into hosting your visit. 

Japan

The Japanese tea Ceremony is one that is full of honor and tradition. You want to ensure you are on your best behavior and adhere to the tea ceremony's basic rules. This way, you will honor your host and honor your own reputation. Politeness in Japan is crucial.

Bring a Fresh Pair of White Socks

Change into clean, unsoiled white socks to show your appreciation for the host and respect for the ceremony. Remove your shoes before entering the venue. You will then go into the tatami room on your knees and scoot to your place. 

Eat Your Japanese Confectionery in Three Bites

The host will serve you a Japanese confectionary — wagashi — before the tea is served. This snack may be accompanied by a wooden pick to help with eating. You should cut one-third, poke it, eat it, and then cut the remainder in half so that you eat it in three bites. To eat something in threes is common practice in Japan. Wagashi should also be eaten straight away as it is always served at the ideal temperature. 

Ask Permission and Apologize Before Drinking Your Tea

When the host offers you a cup of matcha tea it will be presented with the front — the best-looking side — facing you. It is polite to ask the host for permission to drink the tea, after which you will apologize to the person who entered the room after you — this shows respect for the other people in the room. By apologizing, you show remorse for drinking the tea before them. You will humbly rotate the teacup one-quarter turn clockwise and drink from the side so as to not tarnish the best part of the cup.

England

If you are attending an afternoon tea — especially one with the Royals — make sure to review the complete guide to tea etiquette. Afternoon tea is full of subtle intricacies and you want to be on your best behavior. Plus — being a little fancy every now and again is so much fun!

Keep Your Pinky Down

Never ever, under any circumstances, put your pinky up when you’re drinking afternoon tea. You should also never stick your finger through the handle of the teacup. Instead, grasp the handle so your fingers meet in the middle and keep your pinky tucked under your fingers.  

Put the Spoon in its Proper Place

You should never swirl your tea around or clink your spoon on the teacup. Instead, move your spoon from 12 to 6 o’clock and place the spoon behind your teacup. If you are sitting at a table never move your saucer, but always pick up your cup and drink your tea as quietly as possible. 

Pour Your Tea for Your Guests

The heart of afternoon tea has always been about friendship, and should never be served by waitstaff. Instead, the host or hostess will serve tea to their guests as a sign of respect and friendship. Always fill the cups about three-quarters of the way so your guests have room to add sugar and milk if they like. 

India

Tea in India has a lot of similarities to tea in England — for instance, you never want to swirl or slurp your tea. This is not surprising considering the tea history and colonization that ties the countries together. But, there are some major cultural differences when it comes to etiquette and enjoying tea in India — whether it’s in someone’s home or at a local venue. 

Decline Your First Invitation 

If you are welcomed into someone’s home remember — first and foremost — to remove your shoes upon entering the house. It’s customary for the host to offer tea or food and it’s polite for you to decline their invitation. The host will insist you take tea and food again. Then, you can accept their invitation. 

Follow Instructructions Politely

Instead of choosing a spot to sit, you will be told where to sit. The host may also ask you to wash your hands before and possibly after your meal as food is eaten with your hands. Sometimes utensils such as a spoon and a fork are offered, but, most of the time you will eat with your fingers. Regardless, it’s customary to eat with your right hand at all times. 

Leave Some Food On Your Plate

Depending on the household or venue, you may serve yourself or someone may serve you but, make sure to leave a little food on your plate when you are done. Clearing your plate shows the host you are still hungry and unsatisfied which is insulting to them. Leaving a small amount of food on your plate shows respect to the host and lets everyone know you’ve had plenty to eat and that you are indeed satisfied.

Foster Tradition and Etiquette in Your Home

Tea ceremonies and proper etiquette don't have to be left for special occasions and incredible trips abroad. You can create a tea time ritual within your own home — with your friends and dearest loved ones. Host your own tea party for a birthday, holiday, or milestone, and serve scrumptious treats alongside a fragrant pot of tea. 

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