The Global Distribution and History of Tea

Tea, one of the world’s oldest and most beloved beverages, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. From its origins in ancient Chinese legends to its global spread and cultural significance today, tea has had a unique journey.

Origin in China

The legend of the discovery of tea says that in 2737 BC, Emperor Shen Nong accidentally dropped tea leaves into his boiling water, leading to the discovery of this refreshing beverage. Tea soon began its journey from China to other parts of Asia. For an in-depth exploration, read on here .

Spread to Japan and India

In the 8th century, Buddhist monks brought tea to Japan, where it became an integral part of religious rituals and led to the development of the Japanese tea ceremony. Read more about its spread to Japan here .

In India, tea only became popular later, after the British established tea plantations in Assam and Darjeeling in the 19th century.

Rise in Europe

Tea reached Europe in the 16th century via traders, where it was initially a luxury item. It became especially popular in England, where it became an essential part of the culture and gave rise to the famous afternoon tea. Read more about how tea went from exotic luxury to cultural heritage here .

Modern Global Distribution

By the 18th century, tea had spread worldwide, impacting trade and even historical events like the Boston Tea Party. Today, tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, loved by millions. Read more about how tea conquered the world here .

Want to know more? Visit our central tea guide for an in-depth exploration of all aspects of tea.