In the west, several traditional beverages such as hot cocoa and hot spiced cider are popular. In Korea, green tea is the most popular traditional beverage. From ancient times there has been a tradition of serving green tea for guests in Korea. The etiquette for preparing, serving and drinking tea is known as the "Dado" tea ceremony - "Da" implies tea and "do" is the art of making or doing something. When pouring tea into cups after brewing, you are not supposed to immediately fill the cup. Rather you pour a little into each cup in turn and then go around again because the flavor and color of the tea get stronger as time passes.
When you drink the tea, try it slowly in three sips. The tea cup should be encircled with the right hand and supported by the left hand. To drink silently and to appreciate the taste better, the tea should be held in the mouth and rolled with the tongue for a time. And to inhale its aroma is another point to appreciate. Beginners often find the mild tea tasteless, but with time they can appreciate all six tastes - bitter, astringent, salty, sour, sweet and peppery. The first impression is the bitter taste, which turns to one of sweetness in the mouth. In addition to the right taste, tea should have a rich fragrance and a fair color. All three factors contribute to a refreshing body and mind for the drinker.
It is said that drinking tea is not only a incomparable pleasure in itself, but through a tea ceremony, leads people to a state of improved perception of the wisdom of life. In other words, you can reach the supreme state of mind and body or "do" thanks to the six tastes of the tea. .
1) Toesugi, Waste Water Container
2) Dagwan, Tea pot
3) Gwitdaesabal, Tea bowl
4) Chasujeo or chachik, Tea scoop
5) Dagwan lid stand
6) Chatjan, Tea cup
7) Chaho, Tea storage jar
Where can I learn "DADO"?
Banyaro Chado Munhwawon
Tuition : 50,000 won, per 2 hours Tel : 82-2-763-8486
Fax : 82-2-737-8976
How to get there : Get off at Anguk Stn. (Subway Line 3) and walk 5 min.
The institute is located at the entrance of Insa-dong.
Others : 15:00~17:00, Every Saturday.
Instruction in English is available.
Yejiwon Cultural Institute
Tuition : 40,000 won
(Instruction fee : 20,000 won per hour, Entry fee : 20,000 won per person)
Tel : 82-2-2234-3325, 2253-2211
82-2-2253-2213
How to get there : Get off at Dongguk Univ. Stn. (Subway Line 3, Exit 6) and walk 15 minutes.
It is across from the National Theater.
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