When “7” and “8” Become Tea

Today, and July 8th annually, is Chinese Tea Day 中国茶の日 in Japan. It is an anniversary created by NPO China Japan Chinese Tea Association, an organization based in Tokyo that works to promote Chinese tea and expand its presence in Japan's tea culture.

The date comes from a playful linguistic link: the Chinese word for seven, チ, and the Japanese word for eight, や, combine to form “ちゃ,” echoing the word tea itself and mimicking 7/8, July 8th. Chinese tea has deep roots: it originates in China and Taiwan and has shaped tea culture worldwide. In China, tea is considered one of life’s seven essentials, highlighting its everyday importance.

Tea also plays a significant role in Japan's culture. Japan reflects tea’s cultural weight through countless idioms and multiple tea‑related anniversaries throughout the year. Some of which you will find detailed on City-cost!