The aroma of Thai Nguyen tea amidst countless teas.

In the world's tea culture map, each country has its own unique style: China meticulously attends to every movement in the "tea ceremony"; Japan elevates the act of raising a teacup into a meditative ritual; Korea is skillful in its elegant and tranquil tea ceremonies... Amidst these styles, the art of tea drinking in Vietnam - especially in Thai Nguyen - radiates a unique beauty: simple, intimate, less ceremonial, yet profound enough to touch the emotions.

Drinking tea in a stilt house - an experience of immersing yourself in the rhythm of village life.

A cup of tea is the beginning of a conversation.

For Vietnamese people, tea has never been just a beverage. Tea is a greeting, the beginning of a conversation, a bond of affection between people who meet under the eaves, in the kitchen, or at a small table. A pot of hot tea placed in the center of the table is enough to make a conversation feel more genuine and intimate.

Vietnamese people are not concerned with formalities. A small earthenware teapot, a little fragrant green tea, and a cup of water at the start of the day are enough to create a tranquil space amidst the hustle and bustle of life. The Vietnamese way of enjoying tea is therefore as natural as breathing, yet as subtle as a habit ingrained in their lives for generations.

In Thai Nguyen , the art of tea drinking has been elevated to a cultural identity. This isn't achieved through formal rituals, but through the meticulousness in every movement and every sensation. Thai Nguyen people brew tea quickly but carefully, without ostentation, yet with profound respect for the flavor of their renowned "one bud, two leaves" tea.

A perfectly brewed pot of tea always has a clear, yellowish-green color, a delicate aroma of young rice, a slightly astringent taste on the tip of the tongue that gradually turns sweet in the throat. The Thai people don't need elaborate tea tables or ceremonial spaces; in a traditional house, on a simple wooden table, amidst everyday conversations – the art of tea appreciation in Vietnam has developed from this very simplicity.

A unique way to enjoy tea.

Thai Nguyen loose-leaf teapots - the embodiment of the earth's aroma and the skillful hands of tea growers.

Compared to the Chinese, the Vietnamese are not as focused on technique. While the Chinese "tea ceremony" demands a structured, step-by-step process, the Vietnamese drink tea in a more relaxed manner, valuing comfort and sincerity in conversation over strict rituals.

Compared to Japan, the Vietnamese don't elevate tea to the strict philosophy of the tea ceremony. The Japanese view each step in brewing tea as a lesson in mindfulness, while the Vietnamese see a cup of tea as a meeting place for sharing. Drinking tea in Vietnam is much more free and relaxed; sometimes, simply sitting by the doorstep, pouring a hot cup of tea, is enough.

In Korea, the tea ceremony culture often aims for inner peace. Vietnamese people in general, and those from Thai Nguyen in particular, find joy in a cup of tea through life stories, smiles, and community connections. Tea is not just for "tranquility," but for "closeness."

Thanks to its unique soil and long-standing tea-making expertise, Thai Nguyen tea possesses a natural, fragrant aroma reminiscent of roasted rice, and a distinctive blend of astringency and sweetness that few other tea-growing regions can match. But what truly sets it apart is not just the flavor, but also the way the people of Thai Nguyen enjoy tea: relaxed, intimate, without complicated rituals, yet full of emotion.

In the morning mist blankets the tea hills, and farmers lift their fragrant teapots, taking a sip to start their day. On an autumn afternoon, amidst the murmuring conversations on the porch, a cup of tea becomes a catalyst, making every conversation warmer. These simple moments have transformed tea into an integral part of the soul of this land.

If China inspires admiration for its meticulous craftsmanship, Japan commands respect for its rituals, and South Korea offers tranquility, then Vietnam—especially Thai Nguyen—captivates with its simplicity, approachability, and heartfelt charm.

The art of tea drinking in Vietnam is therefore a unique and unmistakable beauty: simple yet refined, unpretentious yet full of soul. And in that journey, Thai Nguyen tea holds a special place – a cultural symbol, a culinary feature with a distinctly Vietnamese flavor.

Source: https://baothainguyen.vn/van-hoa/202512/huong-tra-thai-nguyen-giua-muon-neo-tra-4705b27/