An event featuring Chinese intangible cultural heritage kicked off on Sept 2 in Hamburg, Germany, where traditional Chinese tea ceremonies captivated large audiences.

Hosted by Yuyuan Inc, the event celebrated the 40th anniversary of the sister-city relationship between Shanghai and Hamburg.

The time-honored Huxinting Teahouse in Yuyuan presented immersive tea ceremonies featuring selected osmanthus black tea made from high-mountain black tea, infused with osmanthus blossoms, and served in magnolia-shaped teaware.

The tea ceremony unfolded gradually and elegantly for German visitors, beginning with the burning of incense to calm the mind, followed by warming the cups, cleaning the utensils, appreciating the tea's appearance, and serving it. Visitors gathered around the tea table, interacted closely with the tea master, and enjoyed the tea's inviting aroma and flavor. By following each step of the ceremony, they gained a deeper understanding of Chinese tea culture.

"Tea is not merely a beverage, but also an important way for Chinese people to entertain guests, make friends, and express emotions," said Li Xian, manager of the Huxinting Teahouse, who hoped this visit could help foreign visitors better learn about tea art, as well as the Chinese way of life and cultural traditions.

On the same day, Yuyuan also launched the China Intangible Cultural Heritage Overseas Experience Center at Yuyuan Garden Hamburg. Modeled after Shanghai's Yuyuan Garden, the Hamburg garden opened to the public in 2008 and serves as a symbol of the friendship between the two cities.

With a continued focus on intangible cultural heritage, the center is dedicated to creating an international cultural space that integrates exhibitions, hands-on experiences, heritage preservation, and exchange.

It aims to help more people in Germany and across Europe understand Chinese culture within their everyday cultural contexts, promoting mutual exchange and learning between Chinese and Western civilizations.

Source: China Daily