Sandaocha (Three-Course Tea) Ceremony of Bai Ethnic Minority in Dali

Significance of Three-Course Tea

Three-course tea is a way of drinking tea when Bai people in Yunnan entertain VIPs. In November 2014, the “Three-Course Tea” was approved by the State Council to be included in the fourth batch of national intangible cultural heritage representative projects.

Ceremony of Three-Course Tea

Origin and History

• The Sandaocha is believed to have originated during the Nanzhao period of the Tang Dynasty. It is said to have been inspired by the tea-drinking customs of the Han people during the Jin Dynasty and was popularized among the Bai people in Dali through the spread and development during the Tang Dynasty. The Ming Dynasty traveler Xu Xiake recorded this practice in his travel notes, indicating its existence and cultural importance during that time.

Ceremony Process

• Bitter Tea (第一道茶): The first course is bitter tea, made by baking and shaking tea leaves in a jar over a charcoal fire until they turn yellow and fragrant. Boiling water is then poured into the jar, creating a tea with a rich aroma and a bitter taste. This tea symbolizes the hardships and challenges of life. It is often served in small, delicate teacups, and guests are encouraged to savor the bitterness and reflect on the difficulties they may face in life.
• Sweet Tea (第二道茶): The second course is sweet tea, which is made by adding ingredients such as brown sugar, cassia, and walnut seeds to the tea. This tea represents the sweetness and joy that come after overcoming life’s challenges. It is usually served in a more elaborate manner, with the host carefully adding the sweet ingredients and ensuring the tea is well-mixed before serving it to the guests. The sweet taste is meant to contrast with the bitterness of the first course and remind guests of the rewards that life can offer.
• Aftertaste Tea (第三道茶): The third and final course is aftertaste tea, also known as “joyful tea.” It is made by adding ingredients such as honey, broken milk fan, and pepper grain to the tea. This tea has a complex flavor that combines bitterness, sweetness, and spiciness, symbolizing the various experiences and emotions that one encounters throughout life. It represents a time of reflection and harmony, where guests can appreciate the balance and interconnectedness of life’s experiences. The host may also add some local herbs and flowers to enhance the tea’s aroma and flavor.

Cultural Significance

• The Sandaocha ceremony is not just about drinking tea; it is a way for the Bai people to express their hospitality, respect, and cultural heritage. It serves as a means of fostering bonds between hosts and guests, providing an opportunity for sharing stories and building relationships. The ceremony reflects the Bai people’s philosophy on life, emphasizing resilience, gratitude, and the importance of community.
• The three courses of tea represent the different stages and experiences of life, from the challenges of youth to the sweetness of success and the wisdom and reflection of old age. This thoughtful arrangement of flavors illustrates the Bai people’s understanding of life’s journey and their ability to find balance and harmony amidst its complexities.

Experience Locations

• If you are interested in experiencing the Sandaocha ceremony, there are several notable venues in Dali that offer this traditional tea experience. The Silver Tea House is known for its authentic atmosphere and knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the rituals and significance behind each course. The Bai Ethnic Culture Park often hosts live demonstrations of the ceremony, allowing visitors to witness the art and elegance involved in its preparation and serving. For a more intimate experience, Yuan Meng Teahouse offers private tea sessions that focus on personalization and storytelling.