Japan has a rich history, culture, and customs surrounding tea. In fact, the Japanese tea drinking ceremony dates as far back as the 9th century. Coffee, on the other hand, was originally viewed with skepticism. Due to its foreign origins, coffee was associated with Western identities. However, in the 1960s it grew in popularity amongst business workers. Around the world, coffee shops hold social significance. And the same is true in Japan where they were the meeting place for political movements throughout the late 20th century. The third wave coffee movement has shifted focus back to artisinal coffee brewing methods and specialty coffee beans. This has helped popularize traditional Japanese coffee brewing methods globally in more recent years.