[“Cha” and “Te”]

Did you know that the words for “tea” around the world belong to two main systems: “cha” and “te”? Behind this linguistic difference lies an epic history of trade and how tea was once transported from China.

While tea culture originated in China, it spread through two primary routes: the “Land Route” and the “Sea Route.”

First, “cha” was spread via inland routes like the Silk Road. In northern China, tea was pronounced “chá.” This pronunciation traveled to Central Asia, Turkey, Russia, and Japan. The fact that it is called “chai” in India and many other countries finds its origin in this terrestrial route.

On the other hand, “te” was spread via maritime routes. Around the 17th century, the Dutch East India Company purchased tea from around Xiamen (Amoy) in Fujian Province and brought it back to Europe. In the local Minnan dialect, tea was pronounced “tê.” This sound took root in Western nations, evolving into the English “tea” and the French “thé.”

Interestingly, Portugal is an exception in Europe, as they still call it “chá.” This is because the Portuguese traded through Macau, a Cantonese-speaking region, before the Dutch arrived. They brought back the Cantonese pronunciation “cha” directly.

Unraveling these origins reveals the footprints of ancient merchants who crossed oceans and continents. Understanding this history makes every cup of tea feel even more profound.

Tea has been cherished in Japan since ancient times. Why not use our shop’s tools to spend a relaxing tea time while reflecting on these storied origins?

Gato Mikio's Karmi Tea Canisters
https://www.shokunin.com/en/gato/karmi.html
Nikko's Sori Yanagi Bone China
https://www.shokunin.com/en/nikko/