The 8 Best Destinations for Tea Lovers

If you’re a tea lover, you’ll know that traveling isn’t just about exploring new places — it’s about experiencing the cultures and traditions behind every cup. Tea has an amazing history that spans thousands of years, with regions around the world offering unique blends, preparation methods, and rituals. 

If you’re a tea lover seeking the perfect travel destinations, here are some must-visit spots where you can sip your way through history and savor the finest flavors.

Kyoto is the heart of Japan’s traditional tea culture, particularly renowned for its matcha, a finely ground green tea powder. The city is home to stunning tea gardens, centuries-old teahouses, and tranquil tea ceremonies that invite visitors to experience the art of preparing and drinking tea. 

In Kyoto, the tea ceremony, also known as “sado,” is considered a spiritual practice, reflecting Zen Buddhist principles.

Take time to explore the Uji district, which is famous for producing the highest quality matcha in Japan. Here, you can visit tea farms and participate in hands-on tea-picking experiences. For a truly immersive journey, attend a tea ceremony at one of Kyoto’s historic temples, such as Kodaiji Temple, where the setting enhances the calming ritual.

China’s tea culture is as diverse and rich as the country itself, with regions specializing in different varieties such as green, black, oolong, and pu-erh teas. For a truly authentic experience, head to Hangzhou, home to the famous Longjing (Dragon Well) tea. The city’s tea plantations, particularly around West Lake, offer a picturesque backdrop for tea tasting and learning about the traditional processing techniques.

Yunnan province is another top destination, known for its unique pu-erh tea, a fermented dark tea with a history dating back over a thousand years. In Yunnan, you can visit local markets, engage with tea farmers, and explore the significance of tea in the lives of ethnic minority groups like the Dai and Hani people. 

The vibrant tea markets in Kunming are a must-visit, where you can purchase tea cakes and sample rare pu-erh varieties.

India is synonymous with black tea, and no trip for a tea lover is complete without visiting the rolling tea gardens of Darjeeling and Assam. You’ll find Darjeeling nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. It’s often referred to as the “Champagne of Teas” due to its light, aromatic flavor. You can visit estates like Makaibari and Happy Valley, where tea tours allow you to observe the plucking and processing stages.

Assam offers a distinctly different experience with its bold and malty teas. The region is one of the world’s largest tea producers, and you can explore plantations that stretch along the Brahmaputra River. Some estates, such as the Mancotta Tea Estate, offer bungalow accommodations where you can stay amidst the lush tea fields and enjoy daily tea tastings.

Sri Lanka is renowned for its world-class black tea. The central highlands, particularly the town of Nuwara Eliya, are the hub of the country’s tea production. With an elevation of over 6,000 feet, the region provides ideal conditions for cultivating tea with a distinct flavor profile characterized by a bright, brisk, and slightly citrusy taste.

Embark on a journey through the iconic tea trails, where you can visit historic plantations such as the Mackwoods and Pedro Tea Estates. The scenic surroundings of mist-covered hills and cascading waterfalls make the experience even more enchanting. 

Learn about the intricacies of tea production and taste freshly brewed Ceylon tea at the source.

Taiwan’s tea culture centers around oolong tea. This famous tea is partially oxidized, which places it somewhere between green and black tea in flavor. 

The island’s high-altitude tea-growing regions, such as Alishan and Lishan, produce some of the world’s most sought-after oolong teas. Alishan, in particular, is known for its “high mountain tea,” which boasts a floral aroma and a creamy texture.

Visiting Taiwan offers the chance to see how traditional oolong tea is made, from the hand-rolling process to the intricate fermentation techniques. Stop by a local tea house in Taipei, where you can enjoy a gongfu tea ceremony — a traditional Chinese tea preparation method that involves multiple infusions and helps you appreciate the tea’s evolving flavors.

In Morocco, tea is more than just a drink — it’s a symbol of hospitality. The country’s famous mint tea, made with green tea, fresh mint leaves, and sugar, is an integral part of Morocco’s social life. 

In cities like Marrakech, you can enjoy this refreshing tea in traditional riads, bustling souks, and serene garden courtyards.

You can also explore the nearby Atlas Mountains, where Berber villages offer insight into the region’s tea customs. Here, tea is often served alongside local cuisine, allowing you to experience Moroccan flavors in a relaxed, authentic setting.

The United Kingdom’s long-standing tea culture is most famously associated with afternoon tea — a quintessentially British tradition that dates back to the 19th century. London is the ideal place to indulge in this ritual. Visit luxury hotels like The Ritz, Claridge’s, or The Savoy to enjoy an elegant tea service complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries.

For a different experience, explore the East End’s burgeoning tea scene, where independent tea shops offer unique blends and modern twists on traditional brews. You can also visit historic tea-related landmarks, such as Twinings’ flagship store on the Strand, which has been in operation since 1706 and features a tea museum.

In Russia, tea culture is intertwined with the iconic samovar, a traditional vessel used for boiling water and making tea. The city of St. Petersburg offers a glimpse into this fascinating custom, where tea is typically served strong, often with a slice of lemon or a dollop of jam.

You can visit historical cafés like the Literary Café, where renowned writers such as Fyodor Dostoevsky once sipped tea. Alternatively, explore the countryside for a more authentic experience, where traditional Russian households still use samovars for tea preparation, offering a taste of the past in a warm and inviting setting.

Conclusion

For tea lovers, these destinations offer unique adventures. Whether you’re interested in the meditative practices of a Japanese tea ceremony, the delicious flavors of Indian teas, or the unique traditions found in Moroccan mint tea culture, there’s a perfect spot for every tea enthusiast.

Discover beautiful gift tea sets that make perfect companions for your journey or souvenirs for fellow tea lovers.

These global destinations provide more than just an opportunity to taste tea — they offer a peek into the history and culture behind this beloved beverage.

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