From Tulip Glasses to Matcha Bowls: My Journey with Tea in Japan

When I first arrived in Japan, I thought tea would be the one thing that instantly made me feel at home. After all, in Turkey, çay (tea) is not just a drink, it’s the rhythm of daily life, a symbol of hospitality and the easiest way to bring people together.

What I didn’t expect was how much Japanese green tea would remind me of my own culture, even though it looks, tastes and is served differently. What seemed like two separate traditions quickly revealed a deeper similarity: both Turkish and Japanese tea cultures use tea as a language of connection and respect.

What is the Role of Tea (Çay) in Turkish Daily Life?

Çay plays a large part in daily life as it represents unconditional hospitality and friendship. It is traditionally served hot and strong in small, tulip-shaped glasses from a double teapot called a çaydanlık.

I grew up surrounded by the comforting smell of strong black tea boiling in the çaydanlık. The smaller pot held the concentrated brew, while the larger one below provided hot water to adjust its strength. 

Key elements of Turkish tea service include:

• Serving Vessel: Tea is always served in small, tulip-shaped glasses, which are designed to highlight the beverage’s deep red color.
• Preparation: It is never served with milk, and a sugar cube often accompanies the service on the side.
• Cultural Experience: Holding the warm glass is a vital part of the experience, providing comfort and setting a relaxed atmosphere for conversation.

How Did Tea Become Turkey’s National Drink?

Tea became Turkey’s national drink after World War I when importing coffee became too expensive. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk encouraged local tea production as a cheaper alternative.

While tea first entered the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, coffee was the dominant drink for centuries. The Black Sea region, especially Rize, turned out to be perfect for tea cultivation. By the mid-20th century, tea had replaced coffee in daily routines. Today, Turkey is one of the world’s top tea consumers, consuming an estimated 3–5 cups per person per day.

For me, tea was never just a beverage; it was a way of connecting. Families would gather around endless refills, friends would sit in çay bahçesi (tea gardens) for hours and even shopkeepers would offer a glass while you browsed. In Turkey, refusing tea often feels impossible because of the hospitality and friendship it represents.

How Does Japanese Tea (Ocha) Differ from Turkish Çay?

Japanese tea (ocha) differs from Turkish çay in flavor, color, preparation and serving vessel, though it holds a similarly central cultural role. Instead of the bold, dark taste of Turkish tea, ocha is usually green and offers subtle, refreshing, light, delicate and calming flavors.

When I came to Japan, I discovered a culture where tea mattered just as much as it did in Turkey.

Key historical facts about Japanese tea:

• Introduction: Tea was introduced from China around the 9th century by Buddhist monks for use during meditation.
• Spiritual Tool: In the 12th century, the monk Eisai promoted tea as both medicine and a spiritual tool.
• Art Form: The Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu), which became popular in the 15th and 16th centuries, turned tea preparation into an art form focused on harmony, respect, purity and tranquility.

My first time attending a tea ceremony was unforgettable. Every movement, from folding the cloth to whisking the matcha, was intentional. It wasn’t just about making tea; it was about creating a space of calm and mindfulness. Strangely enough, I felt at home as the tea making process reminded me of the slow pace of sitting in a Turkish tea garden.

What Shared Values Connect Turkish and Japanese Tea Cultures?

At their core, both traditions are saying the same thing: tea is a powerful invitation to connect and share a moment with care and respect.

The methods and vessels may differ significantly, but the essence is universal:

Tradition	Key Method	Serving Vessel	Underlying Message
Turkish (Çay)	Strong black tea brewed in a double pot (çaydanlık)	Tulip-shaped glasses	“You are welcome here, stay as long as you like.”
Japanese (Ocha)	Delicate tea, usually green, steeped in short intervals	Handcrafted ceramic bowls	“This moment is important, let us share it with care and respect.”

Living between these two cultures taught me an important lesson: tea is a universal language. Both traditions are about slowing down, welcoming others and making everyday life more meaningful. The tea itself was a bridge, creating an atmosphere of ease, warmth and togetherness.

FAQ

1. Where can I buy authentic Turkish tea in Japan?

You can find genuine Turkish çay from specialty retailers such as Arifoğlu Herbal Tea & Spice Bazaar (Okinawa) or the Turkish product section at Tokyo Camii Halal Market. For online buyers, the Grand Turkish Bazaar (Online) ships authentic brands such as Çaykur and Doğuş directly to Japan.

2. Where can I buy Japanese green tea in Turkey?

Turkish Souq offers a variety of Japanese teas, including matcha, with delivery across Turkey. While mainly famous for Turkish delights, Hafiz Mustafa occasionally carries Japanese teas. Additionally, the Grand Turkish Bazaar stocks imported Japanese green tea, providing a direct link for authenticity-seeking Turkish buyers.

3. What are the best Japanese green tea recommendations?

For the highest quality, try Yame Gyokuro (Fukuoka), renowned for its deep umami flavor. The historic Uji region offers Uji Sencha (Kyoto), a crisp and refreshing choice. For a premium luxury experience, consider the shaded and sweetness-crafted Competition-Grade Hon Gyokuro “Satori”.

Conclusion: A Bridge Between Worlds

For me, tea has become more than a drink; it is a bridge between my Turkish roots and my Japanese experiences. It reminds me that even in a place that feels unfamiliar, there are traditions that can make you feel at home.

Whether I sip Turkish tea and think of the quiet rituals of Japan, or drink Japanese green tea and remember the chatter and laughter of Turkish tea houses, the humble drink connects two very different worlds.

This is the beauty of tea culture: it shows us that hospitality and respect are universal values.Ready to connect with more universal stories similar to this? Don’t miss out on more insights into global culture and hospitality. Sign up for the GoConnect newsletter today!