Tea houses and tea drinking had a major impact on the culture and society of Song Dynasty China. Tea drinking became a fashionable activity during this period, becoming a symbol of refinement and sophistication. Tea houses provided a place for people to gather and socialize, and they were often frequented by intellectuals and poets who used them as a place to discuss literature and philosophy. Tea also had a strong influence on the arts, with many poets and painters incorporating tea into their works. Tea was also a means of social status, with the wealthy often drinking more expensive tea varieties. As a result, tea drinking became an important part of daily life in Song Dynasty China and played a significant role in shaping its culture and society.