This growing appreciation is also evident in the culinary world. At last year's Michelin Guide awards in Beijing, Ji Na, a tea sommelier at Lu Shang Lu, became the first tea professional in the Guide's history to receive an award.

Ji began her work more than four years ago, learning through trial and error. Inspired by Western sommeliers, she offers warm and professional tea services, introducing guests to the stories and traditions of Chinese tea.

"When I received the award, I realized it was a recognition of the profound cultural heritage behind Chinese tea. It also affirmed that interpreting the 'drink' in food and beverages is a uniquely Chinese approach," she says. "I deeply felt what cultural confidence truly means.

"Tea is about more than taste or mouthfeel," she adds. "It is diverse and inclusive. I hope we continue to use tea as a medium for connection."