Tea has been an integral part of Chinese history and culture since ancient times, its fragrance spreading far and wide. During the Tang Dynasty (618-907), tea was disseminated globally through the ancient Silk Road, connecting the East and West.
“In the Tang Dynasty, there were eight major regions known for tea cultivation. A significant amount of tea was exported from China at that time,” said Cai Xiao, a tea industry expert from Shaanxi Province.
Xi’an City, located in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, serves as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road. Formerly known as Chang’an and the capital of the Tang Dynasty, Xi’an has long been a tourist destination showcasing the vibrancy of life during that era. Today, tourists are increasingly drawn to a series of performances that present cultural elements from the dynasty in a contemporary style.
Among these performances, ancient tea-making demonstrations offer the public an opportunity to immerse themselves in ancient tea culture. Visitors can witness the meticulous process of traditional tea preparation, reflecting the elegance and sophistication of the Tang Dynasty.
Cai Xiao has recently taken on the role of a tea art performer at the “Twelve Hours of Chang’an,” a renowned theme block representing Tang Dynasty culture. By demonstrating the ancient tea-making process, he aims to convey the spirit behind tea culture to the public.
“Traditional Chinese culture, oriental aesthetics, and even romanticism are reflected in tea culture,” he said. “Through these performances, we hope to revive the ancient traditions and share them with the world.”
The resurgence of tea art performances in Xi’an not only enriches the cultural experience for tourists but also revitalizes the heritage of the ancient Silk Road. It bridges the past and present, offering a unique insight into the traditions that have shaped Chinese society for centuries.
Reference(s):
Xi'an tea art performances illuminate ancient Silk Road culture
cgtn.com
