<P> It should be noted that in formal tea ceremonies nodding the head or saying "thank you" is more appropriate . </P> <P> The different ways of brewing Chinese tea depend on variables like the formality of the occasion, the means of the people preparing it, and the kind of tea being brewed . For example, green teas are more delicate than oolong teas or black teas; therefore, green tea should be brewed with cooler water . The most informal method of brewing tea is to simply add the leaves to a pot containing hot water . This method is commonly found in households and restaurants, for example, in the context of dim sum or yum cha in Cantonese restaurants . Another method for serving tea is to use a small lidded bowl called a gaiwan . The Hongwu Emperor of the Ming dynasty contributed to the development of loose tea brewing by banning the production of compressed tea . </P> <P> Gongfu cha, meaning "making tea with skill", is a popular method of preparing tea in China . It makes use of small Yixing teapots holding about 100--150 ml (4 or 5 fl. oz .), the size being thought to enhance the aesthetics and to "round out" the taste of the tea being brewed . Brewing tea in a Yixing teapot can be done for private enjoyment as well as to welcome guests . Depending on the region of China, there may be differences in the steps of brewing as well as the tools used in the process . For example, Taiwanese - style gongfu cha makes use of several additional instruments including tweezers and a tea strainer . The procedure is mostly applicable to oolong teas, but it is some used to make pu'er and other fermented teas . </P> <P> Tea has had a major influence on the development of Chinese culture, and Chinese traditional culture is closely connected with Chinese tea . Tea is often associated with literature, arts, and philosophy and is closely connected with Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism . Roughly since the Tang Dynasty, drinking tea has been an essential part of self - cultivation . Chinese Chan (similar to Japanese Zen) philosophy is also linked with drinking tea . </P>

What is the purpose of a chinese tea ceremony