When you think of Russia, vodka might come to mind—but millions of Russians start their day with a steaming cup of tea. This passion didn’t happen overnight. Centuries ago, tea masters from the Chinese mainland, imperial teahouses and savvy merchants set the stage for what would become Russia’s unique tea culture.
Along ancient trade routes, caravans carried precious tea leaves across mountains and steppe to Moscow. Early on, Chinese tea masters taught locals the art of brewing, planting the seeds of a tradition that would flourish alongside Russia’s iconic samovar. Today, tea unites people from bustling metropolises to remote villages, a testament to how culture travels—and stays.
“Every cup tells a story of cultural exchange,” says CGTN Digital reporter Yang Xinmeng, who explored Moscow’s teahouses. From ornate porcelain sets to modern tea bars experimenting with local flavors, tea in Russia reflects a blend of heritage and innovation.
More than just a drink, tea in Russia is a daily ritual. Families gather, friends reconnect and ideas flow over endless rounds of brewing. It’s a global story steeped in history, reminding young travelers and digital nomads that every sip carries the footprints of ancient journeys.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
