Chinese tea culture

Pu'er tea is a fermented tea, a representative type in Chinese tea culture. It offers various benefits, such as lowering blood lipids and pressure, aiding weight loss, and providing antioxidants. However, there are certain techniques and tips to consider when brewing and drinking Pu'er tea. Here are some recommended methods. Cleaning Tea Ware: Pu'er tea often has surface oils and dust, so it's important to clean the tea ware before brewing. Rinse the teapot or cup with boiling water once, then discard the water, rinse again with hot water, and finally, empty the pot or cup. Brewing Time: As a fermented tea, Pu'er generally requires longer brewing times. For the first infusion, aim for about 10 seconds, and increase by 5 seconds for each subsequent infusion. The tea is usually richest in flavor around the 5th to 6th infusions. Amount of Tea: The amount of tea used for brewing Pu'er differs from other teas. Typically, use 3 grams of tea per 100 milliliters of water. For a stronger flavor, you can adjust the amount accordingly. Water Temperature: Controlling the water temperature is crucial for Pu'er tea. A temperature of around 100°C is recommended for most Pu'ers, but for aged Pu'er,…

Spring is the season when nature awakens. It is also the most vibrant time for the ancient tea mountains of Yiwu. At this time, ascending the ancient tea mountains of Yiwu, you will be deeply captivated by the scenery before you. The mountains are layered with lush greenery, shrouded in mist and clouds, as if you have entered a fairyland. The tea plants, nourished by warm sunlight and gentle rain, produce tender new shoots that exude vitality. Spring Mountain Spring is the season for harvesting spring tea in the ancient town of Yiwu, where 100,000 mu (approximately 16,500 acres) of tea gardens are brimming with life, and the new growth on ancient tea trees flourishes rapidly. Spring Tea Picking Yiwu tea is an activity that requires both skill and ceremony. In the first rays of morning light, tea farmers begin their daily work, moving among the tea plants and carefully selecting the tenderest buds. When picking, the farmers usually take only the top one bud with one leaf or one bud with two leaves. These leaves are the freshest and best represent the unique flavor of Yiwu tea. The picked tea buds, after being carefully withered, pan-fried, rolled, and sun-dried,…

If the Yixing teapot is purely for daily use, it's generally appropriate to choose one priced between 500 to 1,000 yuan. If you seek both practicality and artistry in your teapot, you may opt for one costing between 1,000 to 10,000 yuan. If you also desire collectibility, you might consider teapots priced between 100,000 to 10 million yuan. The appropriate price for a personal-use Yixing teapot depends on your purpose for purchasing it. If it's just for everyday use and you don't care whether it was made by a renowned craftsman, a teapot priced between 600 to 1,000 yuan would be suitable. If you want a teapot that not only serves practical purposes but also meets artistic standards and exceeds basic models, you might choose one priced between 4,000 to 10,000 yuan. These teapots are typically made from precious clay and are mostly handcrafted. If you wish to use your teapot daily and also for collecting, you could consider teapots priced between 10,000 to 100,000 yuan. Such teapots are often crafted by renowned artisans and embody craftsmanship, artistry, and cultural value. A Yixing teapot is an essential piece of tea ware on any tea table and an important component of…

Tea culture has a long history in China, with records of tea dating back to ancient times. Not only that, but there is also a significant emphasis on tea utensils, which are not chosen haphazardly. Even a simple teacup has its own unique considerations. So, how much do you know about Chinese tea culture and the various tea utensils used for brewing? The utensils for brewing tea can be categorized as follows: 1. Yixing clay (purple clay) tea utensils are both elegant and resonant. This type of material has been used for several hundred years and is characterized by a dual-pore structure, giving it strong adsorption capabilities. When used for brewing tea, it enhances the color, aroma, and flavor of the tea. 2. Porcelain and ceramic tea utensils are both delicate and substantial. These utensils are moderately priced and therefore make up a large proportion of all tea utensils. They come in various types such as celadon, fine earthenware, and colored pottery. 3. Artistic tea utensils are both innovative and exquisite. In recent years, the enthusiasm for art pieces has not diminished; instead, it has become increasingly popular. Consequently, artistic tea utensils have emerged and have been well-received. The above…

Puer tea, as a gem in Chinese tea culture, is renowned for its unique fermentation process and aging potential. It is not just a beverage but also an embodiment of culture and art. However, faced with the plethora of Puer teas on the market, how do you choose one that suits you? This article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting Puer tea, helping you find the perfect match. Understanding Basic Knowledge About Puer Tea Before selecting Puer tea, it's essential to understand some basic knowledge about it. Puer tea is divided into two main categories: raw (sheng) and ripe (shou). Raw Puer tea, which has not undergone artificial fermentation, gradually transforms from astringent to sweet over time and has high collection value. Ripe Puer tea, on the other hand, undergoes artificial fermentation and has a mellow taste suitable for immediate consumption. Introduction to Puer Tea Puer tea belongs to the category of dark teas and originates from Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province, named after its primary production area in Puer City. The production process of Puer tea is unique, involving withering, fixation, rolling, drying, and natural or artificial fermentation. The quality of Puer tea primarily depends on the…

Abstract: Longjing tea stands out among green teas because it draws the essence of heaven and earth and integrates harmony between humanity and nature. This article analyzes its historical origins, cultural connotations, characteristics and identification, production techniques and features, applications and influences, inheritance, and prospects, to expound on the history, culture, and modern value of West Lake Longjing tea from China. Please bear with any limitations or errors (one person's view; 2024.04). Keywords: China; tea culture; West Lake Longjing; historical culture; modern value I. Historical Origins of West Lake Longjing Tea 1.1 Origin and Legends West Lake Longjing tea, as a gem of Chinese green teas, is steeped in mystery and romance through its origin and legends. According to historical records, the birthplace of Longjing tea is located by the West Lake in Hangzhou, near the village of Longjing, where mountains and waters converge, the climate is pleasant, providing ideal conditions for tea plants. There is a widely circulated legend about the origin of Longjing tea. Long ago, there lived a kind old woman in Longjing Village who worked hard every day, tending to her family’s tea garden. One day, while working in the mountains, she met an elderly man…

    Teas available on the market today are incredibly diverse, ranging from the six major categories and the top ten famous teas to different processing methods that produce sour, authentic flavors, as well as deeper subcategories within each type. The abundance of tea varieties can be overwhelming!     But what exactly makes a tea the best? Many people wonder about this.     01. Healthy and Safe     First and foremost, tea must be healthy and safe. While tea itself is inherently healthy, the methods used by growers and producers may not always be so.     In pursuit of greater profits, some may neglect ecological balance, leading to extensive cultivation that results in tea plants with less diverse nutritional components, which is not conducive to producing high-quality tea.     Therefore, the first criterion for great tea is that it must be grown in its original, natural environment, or at the very least, in a pesticide-free garden.     02. Suitable for Your Body     Tea contains caffeine and theophylline, which can stimulate the digestive system and nerves. However, differences in processing can lead to varying degrees of stimulation.     For those with sensitive…

As an integral part of Eastern culture, tea is not just a beverage but also a form of life art and spiritual symbol. In China, where tea culture has a long history, it integrates elements of elegance and commonality, becoming an indispensable part of people's daily lives. This article will take you on a deep dive into the elegance and commonality of tea culture and how they together shape this unique cultural phenomenon. The Historical Origins of Tea Culture The origins of tea can be traced back to ancient China, with legends suggesting that it was first discovered and used by Shen Nong. Over time, tea evolved from a medicinal plant to a daily beverage, and a complete tea ceremony culture gradually developed. Lu Yu's "Tea Classic" during the Tang Dynasty is an important document in Chinese tea culture, detailing the cultivation, production, consumption, and related cultural and philosophical ideas about tea. The Elegant Aspect of Tea Culture In ancient China, tea was regarded as a refined beverage that complemented the poetry, calligraphy, painting, and music of literati. Savoring tea was seen as a way to cultivate one's character, and literati would gather to enjoy tea and exchange ideas. The…

Recently, the exhibition "National Tea Fragrance - Chinese Tea Culture Exhibition," co-organized by the China National Tea Museum and the Urumqi Municipal Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism, and Cultural Relics Bureau (Municipal Cultural Relics Bureau), opened on the third floor of the temporary exhibition hall at the Urumqi City Museum. As one of the activities related to the 2024 Xinjiang International Tea Culture Expo, the exhibition has been well-received by many visitors.The exhibition focuses on Chinese tea culture and gathers hundreds of images of collections from venues such as the National Museum and the China National Tea Museum. With a clear theme and grand scale, it includes sections on tracing the history of tea, a collection of tea varieties, appreciation of tea utensils, discussions on tea customs, tea and health, and the spread of Chinese tea overseas. It presents a comprehensive view of the Chinese tea culture that transcends time, connects regions, and integrates ethnicities, vividly demonstrating the depth of tea history, the profundity of tea philosophy, and the richness of past and present tea-related events. To enhance visitors' experience of tea culture, museum staff dressed in traditional attire acted as ancient figures to share and discuss tea with visitors. They…

## Abstract: China's Douyun Maojian tea is a high-quality green tea from Douyun City, Guizhou Province, with a widespread origin story. This article analyzes the historical background, cultural connotations, production techniques, taste characteristics, value and benefits, and market development of Douyun Maojian tea to illustrate its history, culture, and modern value. Please bear with any limitations or errors (personal views; April 2024). **Keywords:** China; Tea culture; Douyun Maojian; Historical and cultural aspects; Modern value  *Image source: Network* ### I. Historical Background of Douyun Maojian Tea #### 1.1 Origin and Legends China's Douyun Maojian tea is a high-quality green tea from Douyun City, Guizhou Province, with widely circulated origins and legends. It is said that the legend of Douyun Maojian tea can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty. According to legend, there was a master of tea studies named Lu Yu who discovered a type of tea tree in the Douyun area during his travels in Guizhou. This tea tree grew at higher altitudes, with thick, tender buds that were fine, uniform, and covered in prominent downy hairs. Lu Yu praised this tea highly, considering it of excellent quality. He made tea from these leaves, finding the taste exceptional.…

Recently, the Youth League Committee of Meixi Town, Anji County, Huzhou City, together with the New Era Civilized Practice Center and the Social Work Station (Happy Neighborhood Center) of Meixi Town, organized a Spring Mud Plan activity themed “Keen to Study, Rich in Tea Aroma,” which provided a tea culture youth group experience. This event aimed to enhance the comprehensive practical abilities and cultural literacy of young people in Meixi by helping students understand tea knowledge, appreciate tea culture, and experience the joy of labor. That morning, the students crossed rugged paths to reach a lush green tea plantation, immersing themselves fully in nature and experiencing the wonderful ecological environment of the green tea fields. Following this, the students visited a modern tea processing factory and a tea culture museum, where they learned about the traditional process of making Anji white tea: spreading, fixation, kneading, shaping, and drying. They also enjoyed a tea art performance and learned about tea brewing, tea utensil usage, and tea table etiquette. Additionally, they experienced making handmade tea soap, gaining insight into the charm and depth of Chinese tea culture. This tea culture labor experience activity made full use of the rich educational resources along…

On August 19, the results of the "2024 Forbes China Tea Industry Selection Series" were officially released. According to the official introduction from Forbes, this selection activity focused on high-quality enterprises, brands, and products within the tea industry, with the aim of jointly promoting the thriving development of the tea sector. Based on the selection results, the administrative regions of the selected tea regional public brands are evenly distributed. In terms of cultural heritage, the selected tea brands possess a profound historical background. In the enterprise selection, the annual enterprises have earlier establishment dates and larger scales, ranking at the forefront in sales. The annual potential enterprises achieved rapid market growth and performed outstandingly in the dimension of social responsibility. The influential products showed good performance in market recognition; they are not only the core products of major tea companies, deeply loved by consumers, but also represent Chinese tea culture engaging in dialogue with the world. The Chao News and Tea Panorama journalists found that Zhejiang tea enterprises and tea brands occupy a place in this year's selection. For instance, among the annual tea regional public brands, famous teas such as West Lake Longjing, Anji White Tea, Anxi Tieguanyin, Qimen…

Over 1,200 years ago, poet Li He experienced a dream of space travel and wrote "Dreaming of the Heavens": "Gazing afar, nine dots of smoke from Qi Prefecture, a cup of seawater poured out." From the sky, the nine provinces looked like tiny dots, and even the ocean was no more than a cup of water; over a thousand years later, images sent back by the Voyager 1 interstellar probe from over six billion kilometers away showed Earth as just a speck of light. Seen from such a perspective, Mount Mengding in Sichuan’s Ya’an would appear like a needlepoint... Yet, at this “Sacred Mountain of World Tea Culture,” the stories of influential figures and the lives of ordinary people unfold right beside it. The Buddhist scriptures say: "A mustard seed can contain a mountain." How can something as small as a mustard seed contain an entire mountain? If we were to descend from outer space toward Earth, would the vast world within that speck of light or needlepoint gradually reveal its wonders? Today, we journey through history to get as close as possible to the legend of this “Sacred Mountain of World Tea Culture.” 1. The Geographic Legend of Mount…

Abstract: The origins and legends of Chinese black tea are deeply rooted in the history and culture of China. This article analyzes its origins and history, techniques and processes, quality and characteristics, distribution and production areas, brands and markets, issues and challenges, development and trends, to expound on the history, techniques, charm, and future prospects of Chinese black tea. Due to the limitations of the author, errors are inevitable, so please bear with them (the views expressed herein are those of the author; April 2024). Keywords: China; tea culture; black tea techniques; historical charm; outlook I. Origins and History of Chinese Black Tea 1.1 Origins and Legends of Ancient Black Tea The origins and legends of Chinese black tea are deeply rooted in the history and culture of China. According to historical records, the rudimentary form of black tea can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty, when there were sporadic records about black tea. However, it was during the Song Dynasty that black tea became widely known due to the praise and advocacy of literati. The great Song writer Su Dongpo praised the aroma and flavor of black tea in his poetry, which gradually spread among the literati. There…

In the vast and profound tea culture of China, Lua'an Guapian stands out due to its unique production techniques and taste, becoming a treasure in the hearts of tea enthusiasts. Today, let's step into the world of Lua'an Guapian together, experience the unique charm of this traditional tea, and learn how to appreciate it. I. History and Origin of Lua'an Guapian Lua'an Guapian, also known as Guapian or Flaked Tea, is produced in the Dabie Mountains area around the city of Lua'an in Anhui Province. Its history dates back hundreds of years, with a rich cultural heritage. The climate conditions, soil environment, and unique production techniques of the Lua'an region have collectively contributed to the distinctive quality of Lua'an Guapian. Historically, Lua'an Guapian was an imperial tribute tea, favored by royalty. In modern times, it has gained popularity both domestically and internationally for its unique taste and quality. Fig: Memories of Autumn (Photographed by) II. Unique Characteristics of Lua'an Guapian The most distinctive feature of Lua'an Guapian lies in its unique production process and form. In the traditional production process of Lua'an Guapian, the tea leaves undergo multiple steps including picking, stir-frying, and baking. Among these steps, the most unique…

Both Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong and Jin Jun Mei are treasures among Wuyi rock teas, often referred to as the "Kings of Teas." Although they come from the same mountain range, differences in picking locations and production methods result in distinct flavor profiles. So, which one ranks higher? Let's explore this question today! Historical Background Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong, also known as "Gong Fu Xiao Zhong," is considered the ancestor of black teas, having gained fame as early as the Northern Song Dynasty. Its production method was created by Cai Xiang during the Song Dynasty and has been passed down for over a thousand years, with exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding quality. Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong is renowned for its distinctive smoky aroma and rich flavor, and it was once a tribute tea that brought in substantial foreign exchange when exported abroad. Jin Jun Mei is a newcomer that emerged around 2005. It uses the most tender tea buds from Mount Wuyi, carefully picked and processed into rare tea leaves that resemble eyebrows, with plump buds and a golden hue. Jin Jun Mei captures the essence of Wuyi rock teas, combining floral, fruity, and honey aromas with a sweet and full-bodied…

White tea, one of the six major types of Chinese tea, is favored for its silvery-white hairs on the buds and leaves, bright infusion color, and rich nutritional content. However, have you ever wondered why it's called white tea? There's a fascinating history and cultural significance behind this seemingly simple name. The Origin of the Name “White Tea” The name white tea comes from both the type of tea plant used and the appearance of the dried tea. A defining feature of white tea is the fine layer of white hairs covering the leaves. These hairs remain after drying, giving the tea a silver or ashen white color, hence the name “white tea”. The Historical Background of White Tea The origins of white tea can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty. The classic text "The Classic of Tea" by Lu Yu during the Tang Dynasty contains records about white tea. At that time, white tea was considered a high-quality tea and was favored by the imperial court. In the Song Dynasty, white tea gained even greater prominence. The famous writer Su Shi praised white tea as "the best drink in the world," leaving behind the famous lines: "To know…

Among the myriad of famous teas in China, Mengding Ganlu stands out with its unique fragrance and elegant appearance, becoming a shining gem in the tea world. It is not just a beverage but also a testament to the profound heritage of Chinese tea culture. When mentioning Mengding Ganlu, one cannot help but think of its unforgettable orchid aroma. But does Mengding Ganlu really have an orchid aroma? Today, let's delve into the world of Mengding Ganlu and uncover the secret behind this fragrant tea. The Origins and Legacy of Mengding Ganlu Mengding Ganlu has a long history; the name "Ganlu" means sweet like dew, while "Mengding" refers to its place of origin—Mengding Mountain in Ya'an City, Sichuan Province. The mountain is often shrouded in mist, with a mild climate, making it ideal for tea cultivation. Since ancient times, local tea farmers have used traditional craftsmanship to produce Mengding Ganlu, imbuing each leaf with their dedication and wisdom. The Source of the Orchid Aroma Mengding Ganlu is renowned far and wide, and besides its beautiful appearance, what sets it apart is its distinctive aroma. Many tea tasters can detect a subtle orchid fragrance when sipping Mengding Ganlu. This aroma is…

Dark tea, as a treasure among traditional Chinese teas, possesses unique charm and a profound historical legacy. It is not merely a beverage but also a continuation and inheritance of culture. We all know that food has expiration dates, and tea is no exception. However, dark tea has the unique quality of becoming more fragrant with age. This seemingly contradictory statement actually reveals the intricacies of its production process and characteristics. The production process of dark tea is highly meticulous, involving four key steps: fixation, rolling, piling, and drying. Using relatively mature raw materials, it is carefully crafted during the initial processing stages, laying the foundation for its distinctive qualities. During the finishing process, even greater care is taken to ensure that every leaf of dark tea exhibits its best flavor. Why does dark tea improve with age? First, dark tea undergoes a series of slow and subtle chemical changes during long-term storage. These changes result in a richer, fuller aroma and a more complex, smoother taste. Similar to wine and spirits, time adds value to them. When determining the age of dark tea, we can consider several aspects. Observing the color of the leaves is one method; new tea…

Abstract: The historical origins and legends of white tea not only reflect its rich cultural heritage but also the aspirations for a better life. In modern society, white tea continues to be favored by consumers for its unique taste and health benefits. As public interest in healthy living increases, the market prospects for white tea will become even more promising. At the same time, we should delve deeper into the cultural essence of white tea and preserve and promote the charm of this traditional tea. This article discusses the history, techniques, market, and future outlook of Chinese white tea through an analysis of its origin and history, production techniques and characteristics, distribution, benefits and health effects, brands and market, issues, and prospects. (Level of expertise is limited, errors are inevitable; personal opinion; April 2024). I. Origin and Historical Culture of White Tea 1.1 Historical Origins and Legends of White Tea As one of China's traditional teas, the historical origins of white tea can be traced back to ancient times. According to historical records, white tea had already gained prominence during the Tang Dynasty, becoming a tribute to the imperial court. Numerous legends about the origin of white tea have been…

Recently, the "Tea Revitalizes Agriculture" practice team from the School of Economics and Law at Chaohu University conducted a rural revitalization field research in Huoshan County, Lu'an City, promoting rural revitalization within the context of tea culture. During the research, team members wore uniform attire and carried small baskets to personally experience the daily work of tea farmers. Under the guidance of experienced tea farmers, the team not only quickly mastered basic tea-picking skills but also gained an understanding of the inheritance and development of tea-making techniques, an intangible cultural heritage. Everyone agreed that they should inherit and promote Chinese tea culture, allowing more people to understand tea etiquette, pass on tea virtues, experience the charm of tea culture, and deeply appreciate this gift from nature. Additionally, the practice team utilized new media platforms to promote the spread of Huoshan's tea culture through live streaming, increasing publicity and promotional efforts. This aims to bring Huoshan's teas and its red culture out of the mountains and into the national and global markets, achieving the goal of transforming tea mountains into gold mines.

Basic Introduction to Qifo Tribute Tea Qifo tea is produced in the Qifo Township of Qingchuan County. The lowest altitude in the tea area is 580 meters, and the highest is 2,100 meters, with an average altitude of around 800 meters. The climate is mild, with abundant rainfall, lush forests, and mist shrouding the mountains throughout the year. At the foot of the mountains, there are clear streams all four seasons. The soil is fertile, and it remains warm in winter and cool in summer. There are no industrial pollution sources, making it an ideal environment for organic tea production. Nutritional Value With the development of the Qingchuan tea industry, Qifo Tribute Tea culture has rapidly risen. Tea has become the top of the world's three major health beverages. Not only is its flavor unique, but it also has special health benefits. It has the functions of enhancing intelligence, stimulating and relieving fatigue, eliminating phlegm, detoxifying, quenching thirst, sterilizing, preventing aging, boosting the body's immune system, resisting radiation, fighting cancer, anti-thrombotic, and lowering blood sugar levels. Product Features The amino acid content of Qifo Tribute Tea ranges from 3.5% to 4.5%; the tea polyphenol content is between 19.0% and 24.0%;…

Abstract: Lushan Cloud and Mist Tea, a treasure of Chinese tea culture, is steeped in mystery and romance in its origins and legends. This article analyzes its historical roots, environment and characteristics, production methods and identification, cultural significance and symbolism, market status and development, as well as personal experiences and reflections, to illustrate the natural beauty and cultural heritage embodied in Lushan Cloud and Mist Tea. Please bear with any limitations or errors (personal views; April 2024). Keywords: China; tea culture; Lushan Cloud and Mist; historical and cultural significance; value I. Historical Origins of Lushan Cloud and Mist Tea 1.1 Origins and Legends Lushan Cloud and Mist Tea, a gem of Chinese tea culture, has origins and legends filled with mystery and romance. According to historical records, the history of Lushan Cloud and Mist Tea can be traced back to the Han Dynasty, when tea farmers were already picking tea leaves amidst the misty mountains of Lushan. The legends surrounding its origin are widely circulated, adding an aura of legend to Lushan Cloud and Mist Tea. According to legend, Lushan Cloud and Mist Tea was created by a monk named Huiyuan. While practicing in Lushan, Monk Huiyuan discovered that the…

In the vast and profound tea culture of China, every type of tea has its unique qualities. Today, we delve into the story of a precious green tea – Taiping Houkui. It is not only known for its distinctive name and legendary origin but also celebrated for its brewing method and exquisite taste. I. A Unique Name and a Legendary Origin The name Taiping Houkui encapsulates both its birthplace in Taiping, Anhui, and its exceptional quality. "Houkui" suggests that this tea is the supreme leader in terms of quality, as rare and agile as a mountain monkey. II. Appearance and Characteristics of the Tea Leaves The leaves of Taiping Houkui are large and flat, with a vibrant green color. Their shape resembles a long sword held by a knight, exuding heroism. The faint red lines visible in the veins sparkle like gems, adding an air of mystery and nobility to these green leaves. III. Strict Picking and Manufacturing Process The picking and production process of Taiping Houkui is extremely rigorous. Every year, during a specific time frame, tea farmers carefully select the tenderest buds. These buds then undergo meticulous sorting and multiple processes, such as fixation, rolling, and baking, before…