Tea is deeply rooted in history, culture, and philosophy. For centuries it has accompanied humankind, evolving yet remaining true to its essence. Those who wish not only to drink tea but also to understand it will find insights into its origins, rituals, and development across centuries and continents in these books about tea.
These works offer insights into tea as a craft, a tradition, and a path.
1 | The Book of Tea – Kakuzō Okakura
Tea as an art form
A classic of Japanese tea culture. Kakuzō Okakura combines Zen, Taoism, and aesthetics with the philosophy of tea. His book shows that tea is not just prepared, but lived – in silence, in the appreciation of imperfection.
Tea is an art and a path – a religion of everyday life.
2 | Cha Jing-Lu Yu
The Classical Book of Tea (8th century)
The roots of tea culture
The oldest surviving work on tea. Lu Yu describes varieties, preparation, water quality, and cultivation methods that continue to influence tea culture today. His knowledge shaped generations and laid the foundation for understanding tea as a craft.
Without the Cha Jing , there would be no tea culture as we know it today.
3 | The Story of Tea – Mary Lou Heiss & Robert J. Heiss
Tea as a journey through landscapes and cultures
This book guides the reader through the world's most important tea regions. The authors speak with tea farmers, observe the processing methods, and describe how soil, climate, and altitude shape the taste of a tea.
Including tasting notes and in-depth insights into terroir and processing.
4 | The Essence of Tea – Daniel Reid
Tea as a way of life
Daniel Reid views tea not just as a beverage, but as part of a conscious lifestyle. He combines traditional knowledge about the effects of tea with modern insights – from the importance of water to the role of tea in meditation.
Tea as a reflection of what is within us.
5 | Liquid Jade – Beatrice Hohenegger
World history in a cup of tea
Tea has shaped trade routes, connected cultures, and influenced political decisions. This book tells the story of its long journey – from the first tea trees in China to British teahouses and on to modern tea culture.
One of the most comprehensive historical studies on tea.
Books about tea
These books offer a profound insight into the world of tea. They show how it has evolved over centuries, its significance in different cultures, and how it influences thought and action.
