Latest update:31 January 2026, 11:23 IST

A Japanese delegation visiting Lucknow eschewed formal meetings to enjoy kulhad tea and samosas at a popular local tea stall.

This simple moment caught attention online and demonstrated cultural exchange through food. (Image source: X)

Official trips are often filled with tight schedules and formal conversations. But during a visit to Lucknow, a group of Japanese officials made a brief, protocol-esque pause to try something far more ordinary: a stop at a neighborhood tea stall.

The short break provided a glimpse into daily life in the city and quickly caught people’s attention. What stood out was not where they went, but how easily visitors integrated into an environment familiar to locals.

The Japanese team visits Lucknow for talks

The Japanese delegation was headed by Junichi Ishidera, Deputy Governor of Yamanashi Prefecture in Japan. They were in Lucknow to meet Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on January 28.

The meeting focused on strengthening relations between Uttar Pradesh and Japan. Topics included cooperation in investment, innovation and long-term development. During the meeting, the Prime Minister spoke about the close relationship between the two countries.

“India-Japan relations are not merely diplomatic in nature, but are rooted in shared values ​​such as mutual trust, discipline, innovation and sustainable development,” Hindustan Times quoted him as saying.

A short break after official meetings

Once the formal talks concluded, the delegation took some time to explore a familiar part of Lucknow. They visited Sharma Tea Stall, a place known among locals for serving tea and snacks.

Visitors were seen drinking kulhad tea and eating samosas in an open space. A video of the visit quickly caught attention online. Many people appreciated the calm and grounded nature of the moment.

Watch the clip here:

Why did the tea stall visit attract attention?

Sharma tea stall is closely linked to the daily rhythm of Lucknow. It is a place where students, office goers and travelers often stop. Seeing an international delegation there felt special to many viewers.

This scene sparked discussions about how food and simple experiences can serve as a bridge between cultures. For many people online, the visit was warm and real.

A familiar moment from the Japanese ambassador

A visit to the tea stall reminded many of another recent cultural exchange. Japan’s ambassador to India, Ono Keiichi, had earlier shared a video from Delhi where he tried eating biryani by hand.

I tried eating biryani by hand – following the example of my Indian friends

“I tried eating biryani by hand, following the example of my Indian friends,” he wrote while sharing his experience. In the video, a person explains the traditional way of eating biryani, while the ambassador listens, nods his head, and follows the steps with interest.

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