There are many ways to serve and enjoy tea. Asia, where tea was first discovered, has its own unique way of serving tea. In China, tea serving customs are used frequently for occasions like family gatherings, weddings, and for simply showing respect or offering apologies. Different equipment and tools may be used in a Chinese tea service. The essential tea service equipment includes a teapot for brewing loose tealeaves, a tool for removing the tea leaves, and a cup for drinking the prepared tea.