Parisians experience Hunan's tea culture

To celebrate International Tea Day, the Tea for Harmony – Yaji Cultural Salon was held in Paris on May 21.

Centered on the theme "Tea for Harmony", the event focused on an immersive tea culture experience. Combining performances, lectures, interactive activities and intangible cultural heritage exhibitions, it comprehensively showcased the unique charm of Hunan's tea culture.

In his opening speech at the ceremony, Wang Meng, director of the Chinese Cultural Center in Paris, said that tea is a gift from the East to the world. With its spirit of inclusiveness, harmony with nature and beauty, Chinese tea culture has become a crucial symbol in connecting world civilizations. Hunan province is a major tea-producing region in China and a stronghold of intangible cultural heritage. Its tea art tradition embodies the harmony of nature and humanity, showcasing a distinctive charm of this region. He also expressed his hope that tea could serve as a bridge for dialogue between China and France to deepen cultural exchanges.

In the intangible cultural heritage exhibition segment, a dazzling array of exquisite and unique works of Hunan culture, such as Colorful Hunan Tea, Miao embroidery, Xiang embroidery, and Liling ceramics, were displayed. These works not only showcased Hunan’s profound cultural heritage but also allowed French friends to appreciate Chinese ingenuity up close. The most engaging part was the Lei Cha (pounded tea) interactive experience, which drew a crowd of participants eager to experience this centuries-old tradition.

Co-organized by the Chinese Cultural Center in Paris and Hunan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, this cultural salon aimed to promote Chinese culture beyond national borders, enhance cultural exchanges, and strengthen people-to-people bonds between China and France.