乌龙茶
A partially oxidized tea that falls between green and black tea, oolong offers a complex spectrum of flavors from floral and creamy to roasted and woody. Tieguanyin from Fujian and Da Hong Pao from the Wuyi Mountains are among the most celebrated oolongs. The traditional gongfu tea ceremony, especially popular in Fujian and Guangdong, is built around the careful preparation of oolong tea.
Tea was discovered in China over 5,000 years ago and remains the cornerstone of Chinese drink culture. From the imperial tribute teas of the Tang Dynasty to today's gongfu tea ceremonies, tea has shaped social rituals, trade routes, and even warfare. China produces more varieties of tea than any other country, with six major categories each offering a distinct flavour profile.
The preparation of Chinese tea is a precise art. Water temperature, steeping time, and tea-to-water ratio all vary by variety — green teas require cooler water around 75-80 degrees Celsius, while pu-erh and oolong benefit from a full boil. The gongfu method uses small teapots and multiple short infusions to reveal evolving layers of flavour with each pour.
East ChinaFamous for the breathtaking West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hangzhou has inspired poets and artists for over a thousand years. Marco Polo reportedly called it the finest and most splendid city in the world. Today it is also a tech hub, serving as the headquarters of Alibaba, while maintaining its reputation for tea plantations and silk production.
Southwest ChinaKnown as the Spring City for its year-round pleasant climate, Kunming is the capital of Yunnan Province and serves as a gateway to some of China's most diverse ethnic cultures and stunning natural wonders. From the otherworldly Stone Forest to the colorful flower markets and proximity to Southeast Asia, Kunming offers a unique blend of Chinese and minority cultures.
East ChinaA charming coastal city on China's southeastern coast, Xiamen is known for its mild climate, clean beaches, and the picturesque pedestrian island of Gulangyu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city offers a relaxed atmosphere with colonial-era architecture, vibrant seafood markets, and a thriving cafe culture. Its proximity to Taiwan gives it a unique cross-strait cultural character.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, tea is valued for far more than its flavour. Green tea is considered cooling and rich in antioxidants that support cardiovascular health. Pu-erh aids digestion and is traditionally served after heavy meals. Chrysanthemum tea is believed to clear heat and improve eyesight. Modern research supports many of these traditional health claims, particularly around the polyphenols and catechins in green and white teas.
teahotThe most widely consumed tea in China, green tea is prized for its fresh, grassy flavor and numerous health benefits. Famous varieties include Longjing (Dragon Well) from Hangzhou, Biluochun from Suzhou, and Huangshan Maofeng from Anhui. Green tea undergoes minimal oxidation, preserving its delicate flavor and bright green color. It has been a cornerstone of Chinese culture for over 3,000 years.
teahotA unique fermented tea from Yunnan Province that improves with age, much like fine wine. Pu-erh undergoes a microbial fermentation process that gives it a deep, earthy, and smooth flavor. Aged pu-erh cakes can command thousands of dollars and are prized by collectors. It is traditionally valued for its digestive benefits and is often served after heavy meals.
teahotGreen tea scented with fresh jasmine blossoms, creating an intoxicatingly fragrant and smooth drinking experience. The tea leaves are layered with jasmine flowers multiple times to absorb their aroma. Particularly popular in northern China and often the complimentary tea served in restaurants, jasmine tea is beloved for its calming, floral sweetness and refreshing aftertaste.