It is said that during Emperor Qianlong's incognito southern tour, he went to a teahouse for a Cup of Tea. The local governor, aware of this, also dressed in plain clothes and headed to the teahouse to ensure the emperor's safety, fearing any mishap would be too much for him to bear. Upon arriving at the teahouse, he sat down on the last seat opposite the emperor. The emperor was fully aware of the situation but did not reveal it, instead engaging in an enthusiastic exchange as if they had just met.

The governor was overwhelmed with trepidation; according to Etiquette, he should kneel to accept anything bestowed by the emperor. To avoid exposing his identity while still expressing gratitude, he had a flash of inspiration and bent his index, middle, and ring fingers, tapping them lightly three times on the table, using his “hand” to represent his “head” in performing the finger-knock salute. This custom has been passed down since then.

Today, those who drink tea place great emphasis on etiquette. For example, someone knowledgeable about tea can tell the depth of another's understanding from their “finger-knock salute.” Some tap twice with two fingers, some clasp their thumb, index, and middle fingers together and peck like a chick, while others use their index and middle fingers to rub the table twice…

Finger-Knock Salute (a return courtesy for guests)

→ A salute from juniors to seniors or subordinates to superiors

Clasp your five fingers into a fist, palm facing downward, and knock all five fingers simultaneously on the table, equivalent to a full prostration. You can knock the table three times, which represents three bows. If you are showing respect to someone particularly esteemed, you can knock nine times, which represents three prostrations and nine bows.

→ A salute between peers

Place your index and middle fingers together and knock them on the table, akin to clasping hands in a bow. You must knock the table three times, representing three bows.

→ A salute from seniors to juniors or superiors to subordinates

Knock the table with your index or middle finger, akin to a nod. You need only knock the table once, equivalent to a nod.

In the vast and profound culture of tea,

Drinking Tea is far more complex than just the “finger-knock salute.”

Let's look at what else we should pay attention to when drinking tea.

Appreciating the Tea

When the host wishes to show their regard for you by serving you a fine tea, they will present the tea leaves to you first. At this time, as the guest, you should make a simple comment about the tea leaves. It is not mandatory, but it shows respect for the host. Therefore, learning some basic knowledge about tea is essential.

Savoring the Aroma

Tasting the Tea

There is a certain etiquette to holding the tasting cup when sipping tea. Generally, hold it with your thumb and index finger below the rim, supporting the bottom of the cup with your middle finger as you slowly taste the tea. Don't drain the cup in one go; remember that you are savoring a fine tea prepared with care by your host, not knocking back alcohol. According to etiquette, you should take at least three sips before finishing it.

Sometimes, you may notice that the tea has become quite light, yet the host does not offer to change it. You might think it's an oversight on the host's part, but it is actually a hint that it's time for you to leave. They may have other important matters to attend to and cannot continue entertaining you.

The culture of tea is extensive and profound, and today we've only touched on a few aspects. However, it's important to note that when drinking tea, you should adapt to the current situation and follow your own inclinations. Being overly rigid can be counterproductive. The most important aspect of drinking tea with others is sincerity and genuine feeling.