Korean Tea Culture: A Journey Through Tea Houses in Jeju

Korea is renowned for its rich and diverse tea culture, and no visit to the country is complete without exploring its vibrant tea houses. From green tea to black tea, there is an incredible array of tea on offer with many distinct flavor profiles and health benefits. Jeju, a picturesque island just off of the country’s south coast, is home to some of the best tea houses in the country. Here, we’ll take a look at the various types of tea that can be enjoyed in Jeju tea houses, as well as the distinct tea ceremonies that many of them offer.

Types of Tea

There is a wide variety of tea to choose from in the tea houses of Jeju. The most popular type of tea is green tea, which is produced for its antioxidant properties. Green tea is made from leaves that have been harvested and dried, and is light and fragrant in flavor. It is usually served with water or honey, depending on the preference of the drinker. Other popular types of green tea that can be enjoyed in Jeju tea houses include matcha, which is ground green tea leaves, and genmaicha, a mix of green tea and roasted brown rice.

Black tea is also widely available in Jeju, and is made using processed leaves. It is stronger in flavor than green tea, and is usually served with milk or lemon. It is also packed with antioxidants, making it a healthy choice. Oolong tea is another type of tea available in tea houses and it is made from partially oxidized leaves and has a smooth and aromatic flavor. Pu-erh tea, which is made from fermented leaves and stored as bricks, is also widely enjoyed. In addition to these, there are a variety of herbal and fruit teas that are also served in Jeju tea houses.

Tea Ceremonies

In addition to the range of teas that can be enjoyed, the tea houses of Jeju also offer traditional tea ceremonies. During these ceremonies, guests are invited to sit on a mat and enjoy a variety of teas prepared by a host, who will demonstrate various elements of the tea ceremony. These ceremonies typically begin with the selection of a tea, and guests are then asked to smell and taste the tea before pouring it into their cups. The host will then provide instructions on how to drink the tea, such as how long to steep, how much to add to the cup, and whether or not to add additional items such as honey or lemon.

The tea ceremony also includes various other activities, such as the traditional Korean game of ‘yut’, in which participants roll four small sticks and make decisions based on their positions. There are also various traditional snacks that are shared during the tea ceremony, such as ginseng or jujube, and guests will often be given small gifts as a token of appreciation from the host.

The tea ceremony is a very important part of the Korean tea culture, and it is a great way for visitors to experience the customs and traditions of the culture. It’s also an opportunity for people to take a break from their busy lives and relax and enjoy a cup of tea.

Conclusion

The tea houses of Jeju are an integral part of Korean tea culture, and they offer visitors an insight into the rich heritage of this region. From green tea and black tea, to herbal and fruit teas, there is an incredible variety of tea to be enjoyed in the tea houses of the island. Guests can also take part in traditional tea ceremonies, which are a great way to experience the culture of the region and relax with a cup of tea while enjoying traditional snacks and activities. Whether you’re looking to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, or to experience an unforgettable cultural experience, Jeju tea houses offer the perfect opportunity to do both.