Tang Dynasty

Aside from being a familiar beverage, tea also has a unique background in Traditional Chinese Medicine. What differences emerge when we view tea through the lens of TCM? 1. Tea as Chinese Medicine In ancient times, tea was used as medicine and recorded in medical texts. The Shennong Ben Cao Jing records that “Shennong tasted a hundred herbs and encountered seventy-two poisons in a single day, finding relief in tea.” This suggests that the origin of tea was medicinal. During the Wei, Jin, and Southern and Northern Dynasties when the custom of drinking tea began to form, the techniques for processing tea were not rudimentary or primitive, reflecting the development of tea processing before it became a beverage of choice. This development occurred within the realm of medicine. From the time tea became a beverage of choice, while preserving its biological characteristics, the goal of tea processing shifted towards making it more delicious and palatable. Although conceptually distinct from medicine, there was no fundamental change in the technical aspects of processing tea. From the perspective of Chinese pharmaceutical processing, the objectives of tea processing and medicine preparation are entirely consistent: both aim to extract active ingredients effectively, improve their efficacy,…

Chinese people have a long-standing obsession and fascination with certain colors. One is the "sky-blue color waiting for rain" of the Ruyao "qing," while the "qing" of Longquan celadon is another. The green mountains yield celadon from Longquan, and over two thousand years ago, the people of Zhejiang's Longquan began writing the legendary history of creating celadons. Whether it is the layered green glaze colors, the interwoven textures of the porcelain shards, or the rounded and unique shapes, Longquan celadon always precisely stirs the Chinese sense of "beauty." The ceramic authority Chen Wanli once said: "Half of China's ceramic history lies in Zhejiang; half of Zhejiang's ceramic history lies in Longquan." The production of Longquan porcelain has a long history. It is the capital of celadon and swords, a national historical and cultural city, and a national advanced city in culture. Longquan got its name from a sword. During the Spring and Autumn period, Ouyezi cast three swords in Longquan, naming one "Longyuan," which became the place name. Later, to avoid offending the Tang Dynasty's founder, Li Yuan, it was changed to Longquan. During the Three Kingdoms and Jin periods, local residents relied on natural conditions to fire celadon. At…

Mount Mengding in Ya'an, located in the southwest of the Sichuan Basin, is one of the birthplaces of world tea culture and a historic tea-producing region in China. The tea produced on Mount Mengding in Ya'an, Sichuan, is a traditionally renowned historical tea and also a high-quality green tea. It is tightly curled with many fine hairs, has a fragrant aroma, and is known as "fairy tea." Drinking it regularly has excellent health benefits. So, what kinds of tea does Mount Mengding in Ya'an have? Varieties of Mount Mengding Tea: 1. Mengding Sweet Dew Mengding Sweet Dew, also known as Sweet Dew tea, is one of the most famous teas from Mount Mengding. It was listed as a tribute during the Tang Dynasty and is a precious green tea. The Mengding Sweet Dew tea is tightly curled, tender, and lustrous green, with a clear and bright infusion, fresh and refreshing taste, rich fragrance, and long-lasting aftertaste. Due to its unique production process and excellent ecological environment, Mengding Sweet Dew has extremely high nutritional value and health benefits. 2. Mengding Yellow Bud Mengding Yellow Bud, also known as Yellow Bud tea, is one of the famous teas from Mount Mengding in…

Peering through the mist and looking down from above, rows of tea plants overlap in layers, scattered like stars across the mountains, nurturing this land like the source of life — Mount Mengding. Located on the southwestern edge of the Sichuan Basin in the eastern part of Ya'an City, Mount Mengding occupies the golden zone for tea cultivation in Sichuan. With distinct seasons, abundant rainfall, uniform sunlight, fertile soil, and suitable temperatures, it is often referred to as the "Rainy Sky of Western Sichuan," making it an ideal environment for tea plants and providing favorable conditions for high-quality tea. The Legacy of Mengding: Tracing the Ancient Legend of a Thousand-Year Tribute Tea In the Western Han Dynasty, the tea ancestors began planting tea on Mount Mengding, sowing seven sacred tea saplings on the peak of Lotus Five Peaks, initiating the precedent of Chinese tea culture. The quality of Mount Mengding's tea was exceptional; after eight centuries of word-of-mouth praise, it became renowned nationwide and eventually graced the palates of royalty, becoming a tribute item. During the Tang Dynasty, tea from Mount Mengding was officially listed as a royal tribute; by the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, the finest tea…

Abstract: Through a long historical development, Xinyang Maojian Tea has become a brilliant highlight in Chinese tea culture due to its unique origin and exquisite production techniques. This article analyzes the historical origins, cultural connotations, quality characteristics, production processes, market trends, inheritance, and innovation of Xinyang Maojian Tea, thereby elucidating its history, culture, and modern value. Please note that this is one author's perspective, and errors are inevitable; your indulgence is kindly requested (one person's opinion; April 2024). Keywords: China; Tea Culture; Xinyang Maojian; Historical and Cultural; Modern Value I. Historical Origins of Xinyang Maojian Tea 1.1 Origin and Legends Xinyang Maojian Tea is a type of green tea produced in the Xinyang region of Henan Province, China. There are several stories about the origin and legends of Xinyang Maojian Tea: 1. Legend One: It is said that during the reign of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, a tea farmer accidentally fell into a pile of tea leaves while picking them. When he climbed up in fright, he found that his sweat had covered the tea leaves. After roasting these leaves, he discovered that they were bright green in color and delicious, becoming the prototype of Xinyang Maojian Tea.…

Basic Introduction to Jinzhai Black TeaJinzhai is a land renowned for its premium teas, with an environment uniquely suited for tea cultivation. Surrounded by peaks and dense bamboo forests, the area boasts two large reservoirs—Meishan and Xianghongdian—that create a serene landscape of tranquil lakes and lush islands. Natural scenic spots within the region, such as Mount Paradise (Tiantangzhai), Yanzihe Grand Canyon, and Redstone Valley, are known for their unusual rock formations, clear springs, and peaceful surroundings. Jinzhai Black Tea is protected under the national agricultural geographical indication. Nutritional ValueBlack tea is rich in nutrients like carotene, vitamin A, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, caffeine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, glutamic acid, alanine, and aspartic acid. During the fermentation process, significant chemical reactions occur in the polyphenols present in the fresh leaves, leading to the formation of components like theaflavins and thearubigins. This results in a notable increase in aroma, giving black tea its distinct color, fragrance, and taste. Product CharacteristicsJinzhai Black Tea has a tight, fine appearance with dark lustrous leaves and golden tips. Its liquor is a bright copper-red with an amber halo. It has a sweet smoky aroma and a fresh, mellow taste with a sweet aftertaste. The infused leaves are…

Basic Introduction to Luaan GuapianLuaan Guapian, a traditional and historic Chinese tea, is one of China's top ten famous teas, often abbreviated as 'Guapian' or 'Pian tea.' It is produced in the Dabie Mountains around the city of Luaan, Anhui Province. In the Tang Dynasty, it was known as "Luzhou Luaan Tea," recognized as a renowned tea; during the Ming Dynasty, it began to be called "Luaan Guapian," considered an excellent and superior-grade tea; by the Qing Dynasty, it had become a tribute tea for the imperial court.Luaan Guapian is a special type of green tea. Among all teas in the world, Luaan Guapian is the only one without buds or stems, made solely from single-leaf tea. Removing the buds not only maintains the single-leaf shape but also eliminates the grassy taste; the stems become woody during processing, so removing them ensures the tea remains rich but not bitter, fragrant but not astringent. The leaves are plucked within ten days before and after the Grain Rain (Guyu) solar term, with two or three leaves taken at a time, prioritizing "maturity" over "tenderness." Nutritional ValueThe chemical components of Luaan Guapian have significant health benefits. Its composition includes 3.5-7.0% inorganic substances and…

Abstract: The origin and development of ancient tea culture is an integral part of Chinese tea culture, carrying rich historical connotations and cultural significance, adding a vibrant stroke to the spiritual homeland of the Chinese nation. At the same time, ancient tea culture provides valuable insights for the development of modern tea culture, allowing us to appreciate the profoundness of traditional Chinese culture while savoring the aroma of tea. This article analyzes the historical origins, characteristics of varieties, cultivation techniques, cultural aesthetics, application development, and communication of Chinese tea, illustrating its millennium heritage and contemporary appeal. (Note: Written from a personal perspective; April 2024.) Keywords: Chinese tea; heritage; charm I. Historical Origins of Chinese Tea 1.1 Origin and Development of Ancient Tea Culture The origins of Chinese tea culture can be traced back thousands of years, with its deep historical roots and unique cultural essence forming an important component of the Chinese national spirit. Historical records show that tea was used as a beverage as early as the era of Shen Nong, reaching its peak during the Tang Dynasty. Lu Yu's "Classic of Tea," written during the Tang Dynasty, is the earliest, most complete, and most comprehensive treatise on tea,…

Pu'er tea, a precious variety that has been refined over thousands of years, is renowned for its unique aroma, rich flavor, and abundant health benefits. Harvested from the green mountains and clear waters of Yunnan Province, it undergoes meticulous processing and aging, transforming into cakes and blocks that solidify time, waiting to meet tea enthusiasts and together create a delightful symphony on the palate. Pu'er Tea: Origins Pu'er tea, named after its place of origin, Pu'er City in Yunnan Province, has a history dating back to the Tang Dynasty, with over a thousand years of cultivation. Its production process is distinctive, mainly divided into sun-dried green and pile-fermented varieties. Sun-dried Pu'er, also known as raw tea, retains the fresh and brisk taste of the leaves; pile-fermented Pu'er, also known as ripe tea, undergoes artificial pile fermentation, resulting in a smooth and mellow flavor. Pu'er Tea: The Art of Brewing Brewing Pu'er tea is an art form, requiring attention to every detail to fully release the aroma and taste of the tea. Preparing the Teaware: For brewing Pu'er tea, you can choose teaware such as purple clay pots, covered bowls, or glass cups. Purple clay pots have good breathability and can…

Basic Introduction to Taoyuan Wild Tea KingTaoyuan Wild Tea King is a specialty of Taoyuan County, Hunan Province, and a Chinese national geographical indication protected product. This tea is a critically endangered mountain wild large-leaf tea variety. It is characterized by "large leaves, soft leaf texture, deep green color, robust buds, abundant downy hair, emerald-colored infusion, fragrant aroma, and lingering aftertaste." Through local research and protection, the artificial propagation of this variety has been achieved, with production gradually increasing. Product FeaturesIn 1969, Mr. Lu Wanjun, a native and graduate of the Hunan Tea School, and tea taster Mr. Liao Yuzhao discovered two rare large-leaf tea trees in the wild tea population of Lujiazhong Village, Taipingpu Township. These trees had "large leaves, soft leaf texture, deep green color, robust buds, abundant downy hair, emerald-colored infusion, fragrant aroma, and lingering aftertaste." Upon evaluation by tea experts, it was determined that this tea is rich in selenium, zinc, and other trace elements beneficial to human health, as well as over 500 types of phenolic substances. The tea polyphenol content reaches up to 35%, and the amino acid content is as high as 8.56%, both higher than any other tea varieties. This tea also…

Chinese people enjoy sipping tea, with the tea culture being passed down for thousands of years. The main components of tea culture include the evaluation techniques of tea leaves, artistic operation methods, appreciation of the tea-drinking environment, etc. The entire process of tea drinking is imbued with a beautiful ambiance, and in this overall process, tea utensils, as the foundation, are indispensable. Alongside the millennial development history of tea culture, the evolution of tea utensils can be said to be a beautiful landscape in its own right. The Tang Dynasty was the first peak in the history of ceramic development in China, and the flourishing of tea drinking at this time also spurred the development of tea utensils. During this period, tea utensils had a broader field for development. Archaeological excavations at kiln sites prove that, in addition to kilns such as Yue Kiln, Ding Kiln, Wuzhou Kiln, Yuezhou Kiln, Shouzhou Kiln, and Hongzhou Kiln, Northern kilns like Xing Kiln, Quyang Kiln, Gongxian Kiln, and Southern kilns like Jingdezhen Kiln, Changsha Kiln, and Qionglai Kiln were also producing tea utensils in large quantities at the time. This sufficiently demonstrates the close integration of ancient Chinese ceramic culture with traditional tea…

Basic Introduction to Suizhou Bud TeaSuizhou Bud Tea is produced in an area located at the midpoint of the mid-latitude monsoon circulation region, at the confluence of the Yangtze River and Huai River basins. It is situated between 31°19'N and 32°26'N. Scientific research has proven that the region around 30°N ± 2° offers suitable temperatures. The tea produced here can balance both appearance and quality, with a phenol-ammonia ratio of around 10. This makes it an ideal growing area for high-quality green tea. Suizhou Bud Tea combines color, aroma, flavor, and shape, making it a signature product of the tea industry in Suizhou. Nutritional ValueModern scientific research has extensively confirmed that tea indeed contains biochemical components closely related to human health. Tea not only has stimulating, refreshing, heat-clearing, thirst-quenching, digestive, phlegm-reducing, fat-burning, irritability-alleviating, detoxifying, and hangover-relieving properties but also has pharmacological effects on modern diseases such as radiation sickness, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The numerous pharmacological benefits and wide-ranging effects of tea make it unparalleled among other beverages. The primary active ingredients responsible for these pharmacological effects are tea polyphenols, caffeine, and polysaccharides. Product CharacteristicsThe characteristics of Suizhou Bud Tea include straight, firm strands, plump and uniform buds, a silver-green…

Since its inception during the Ming Dynasty and flourishing in the Qing Dynasty, the Zisha teapot has developed for hundreds of years, with countless shapes. The most classic teapots are not only appreciated for their beautiful designs but also for their unique cultural connotations that resonate with many enthusiasts. Among them, there are ten classic Zisha teapot shapes, each with its own story or symbolism, conveying profound and enduring truths that elucidate the philosophy of life. 【Stone Spout】— Temperance The Stone Spout is a traditional classic style of Zisha teapot, elegant and upright. It is said that the original name was Stone Kettle, but during the Republic of China period, Mr. Jingzhou suggested the meaning "Of all the water in the world, I will drink but one cup," renaming it the Stone Spout Teapot, which has been used ever since. The Stone Spout tells us to be content with what we have and not to be overly greedy. Material desires are never fully satisfied, "With a thousand acres of fertile land, one can eat no more than three bowls per meal. With ten thousand rooms, one can sleep in no more than one bed." Excessive possessions burden us. 【Imitation Ancient】—…

Basic Introduction to Longjing TeaLongjing Tea is renowned for its emerald green color, beautiful shape, rich aroma, and mellow taste. Its unique characteristics of being "subtle yet far-reaching" and "aromatic yet fresh" set it apart from other teas in terms of divine elegance and exceptional quality, making it the top among China's Ten Most Famous Teas.The picking of Longjing Tea has three distinct features: early, tender, and frequent. As the saying goes among tea farmers, "Tea leaves are like grass that grows by the hour; picked three days early they're a treasure, but three days late they become just grass." The tea is also known for its delicate picking, with the freshness and uniformity of the fresh leaves forming the basis of Longjing's quality. "Frequent" refers to the practice of picking larger leaves while leaving smaller ones, with about 30 batches harvested throughout the year.Traditional Longjing tea processing involves ten techniques: tossing, shaking, spreading, stirring, pressing, flicking, grabbing, pushing, folding, and grinding. Different processing techniques are used for different grades of tea. Due to differences in ecological conditions and processing techniques, West Lake Longjing is categorized into five types: "Lion Peak," "Dragon Well," "Clouds and Mist," "Tiger Run," and "Meiji."The…

The Ming Dynasty was a period of innovation in tea processing and the creation of loose leaf teas, setting new trends for tea drinking. In the 24th year of Hongwu reign under Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang (1391), the production of compressed tea bricks was abolished, promoting the development of loose leaf teas. Many famous teas emerged as the method of brewing changed from whisking to steeping. The process of tea preparation became simpler, and fewer tea wares were needed. 1. Simplification and Reduction of Tea Wares The older tea cakes of the Tang Dynasty required the "boiled tea method." The finely processed dragon and phoenix compressed teas of the Song Dynasty necessitated the "whisked tea method." Both the "boiled tea method" and the "whisked tea method" involved complex procedures and a multitude of tea wares. The brewing of loose leaf teas in the Ming Dynasty was much simpler: a small amount of tea would be placed in a cup (or pot), and hot water poured over it, ready to drink. This method was also known as the "pinch tea method" during the Song Dynasty. At this point, only a kettle for boiling water and a cup (or pot) for brewing were…

Basic Introduction to Yunlian Bitter TeaYunlian County, Sichuan Province, is a true “Bitter Tea Homeland,” and Yunlian Bitter Tea enjoys the reputation of “Green Mountains and Clear Waters.” According to statistics, in 2010, the county had 120,000 mu (approximately 8,000 hectares) of bitter tea planted, with a production reaching 173 million dan (approximately 865 tons), generating over 100 million yuan in output value. It has become the largest small-leaf bitter tea base county in China, accounting for over 50% of the national bitter tea market share. The product is sold in major cities across the country and has become a pillar industry for farmers' income growth and a specialty industry cultivated by the industrial structure in Yunlian. Nutritional ValueBitter tea not only contains various amino acids, vitamins, and trace elements such as zinc, manganese, and rubidium that are essential for the human body but also has effects such as lowering blood lipids, increasing coronary artery blood flow, improving myocardial blood supply, and fighting arteriosclerosis. It can effectively prevent and treat symptoms like dizziness, headaches, chest tightness, fatigue, and insomnia in patients with cardiovascular diseases, thus being favored by middle-aged and elderly people. Product CharacteristicsThe appearance of the tea is finely…

The Song Dynasty was a time of abundant brick tea (also known as "tuán chá" or "piàn chá"). Regarding the production techniques of this period's brick teas, apart from the main processes recorded in "Beiyuan Bielu" for tribute teas (picking, sorting, steaming, pressing, grinding, shaping, drying), there was also the "gao you shou mian" technique, which involved adding a paste-like substance to the surface of the brick tea. Although this technique has been widely discussed by Song literati, detailed records of its specific operations are scarce, leading to a lack of systematic research on it within academia. Academic interpretations of "gao you shou mian" have largely focused on Su Shi's poem, "To know the purity of heart is good, not new with paste on the surface," interpreting it primarily as the act of applying paste to the surface of brick tea, with some suggesting it was a method of tea fraud. There are few discussions in academia about the formation of "gao you shou mian," though some trace it back to the Tang Dynasty, but their arguments are not particularly persuasive. The selection of materials for the paste is widely mentioned to include fragrant pastes, rice paste, and occasionally tea…

Famous Chinese tea wares include celadon, white porcelain, and more. Where are they produced? Let’s delve into the details below. The Top Ten Production Areas for Famous Chinese Tea Wares: 1. Yue Kiln: Known for Celadon Production The Yue Kiln is a primary production site for southern celadon in ancient China. The Tang Dynasty marked the peak of Yue Kiln craftsmanship, earning it a distinguished reputation both domestically and internationally. 2. Xing Kiln: Known for White Porcelain Production The Xing Kiln was one of the earliest sites in Northern China to produce white porcelain. It was located in Neiqiu County and Lincheng County’s Qicun area, under the jurisdiction of Xingtai City, and holds a significant place in the history of Chinese ceramics. 3. Ru Kiln: Known for Sky-blue Glaze Ru Kiln is located around Qingliang Temple in today’s Baofeng, Henan Province. Named after the city of Ru during the Northern Song Dynasty, it is renowned for its celadon tea wares, including sky-blue, pea-green, and powder-blue varieties. 4. Jun Kiln: Known for Copper-red Glaze The Jun Kiln, also known as Junzhou Kiln, was established in the town of Shenhoushen, Henan Province, during the early Song Dynasty. The ancient Jun Kiln site…

"Yunnan Rock Tea" is a precious variety that has recently emerged in the world of Pu'er tea in the 21st century. "Yunnan Rock Tea" refers to tea produced from tea plantations and tea trees located in the core area of Bangdong Township and Matai Township in the Linxiang District, as well as Dazhaoxi Town in Yun County (formerly Dashixiang). These areas are at an altitude ranging from about 800 to 2,000 meters and radiate outwards to surrounding regions. It is well known that the renowned Wuyi Rock Tea is highly valued for its irreplicable growing environment. Wuyi Rock Tea is a small-leaf variety; can we find rock tea in the large-leaf tea region of Yunnan? After extensive searches by tea enthusiasts, large-leaf "Yunnan Rock Tea" was found in the middle and lower reaches of the Lancang River, in Bangdong Township and Matai Township of the Linxiang District, as well as Dazhaoxi Town in Yun County. In fact, for thousands of years, locals have coexisted with tea and rocks, with tea sprouting between the crevices of stones. Upon being "rediscovered," "Yunnan Rock Tea" immediately garnered widespread attention and became popular among tea lovers. What makes "Yunnan Rock Tea" especially precious is…

Liu'an Guapian, one of the top ten famous teas in China, is highly regarded by tea enthusiasts for its unique quality and long history. This tea is not only popular domestically but also holds an important position in international markets. This article will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Liu'an Guapian, covering its history, characteristics, benefits, and how to brew it, giving you a more complete appreciation of this tea. The Historical Origins of Liu'an Guapian Liu'an Guapian, also known simply as Guapian or "slice tea," is one of China's top ten famous teas, produced in the Dabie Mountains area near Liuan City, Anhui Province. Its history dates back to the Tang Dynasty, when it was known as "Luzhou Liuan Tea." By the Ming Dynasty, this tea came to be called "Liu'an Guapian" and was esteemed for its outstanding quality, being considered a high-grade and superior tea. During the Qing Dynasty, Liu'an Guapian became a tribute tea for the imperial court, enjoying great renown at the time. The Growing Environment of Liu'an Guapian The main production areas of Liu'an Guapian are located in the northern foothills of the Dabie Mountains in Jinzhai County and Yu'an District, where the climate…

After the start of the dog days, most regions in our country officially enter "grill mode." The dog days fall between Minor Heat and Start of Autumn, marking the hottest, most humid, and sultry period of the year. As the saying goes: "It's hot during the dog days." This can be interpreted as: "During the heat, it's better to stay still than to move around." So, how should one maintain health during this season? First Challenge: Nourishing the Heart As temperatures gradually rise, the body's consumption also increases. Once summer arrives, many people feel unwell and lethargic. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), "the summer qi is connected to the heart qi." During this time, nourishing the heart involves two aspects: caring for the blood vessels and adjusting sleep patterns. Caring for Blood Vessels: To care for your blood vessels, it is recommended to maintain a light diet. Eat more foods like onions, mushrooms, black fungus, milk, lotus seeds, and bean products. Try to maintain a calm state of mind and eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to increase fiber intake, vitamin B, and vitamin C, which helps prevent arteriosclerosis. Adjusting Sleep Patterns: Sleep nourishes essence and qi,…

Basic Introduction to Wushan Divine Tea Wushan Divine Tea is produced in the misty mountains of the Yangtze River's Three Gorges region. It is made from the leaves of a unique local tree called "Lin Qin." This tea grows wild in a pristine, pollution-free environment and contains multiple trace elements beneficial to human health. Nutritional Value Chemical analysis reveals that the tea contains over 300 substances beneficial to the human body. It has various health benefits, including aiding digestion, boosting energy, strengthening the body, reducing illnesses and preventing cancer, preventing arteriosclerosis, preventing coronary heart disease, lowering blood pressure, fighting aging, lowering blood sugar, inhibiting bacteria and reducing inflammation, alleviating the effects of smoking, reducing heavy metal toxicity, protecting against radiation, preventing tooth decay, improving eyesight, aiding digestion, detoxifying the body, preventing constipation, aiding weight loss and fat reduction, and helping to sober up after drinking alcohol. Product Characteristics The tea brews into an amber color, and its water remains fresh overnight even in summer, making it a natural thirst-quenching beverage. It can refresh and soothe the mind, and is known locally as "Longevity Tea." Regular consumption is beneficial for health. Historical and Folklore Background The origin of tea drinking in…

Pu'er Tea Historical and Tribute Tea Zhou Dynasty The history of Pu'er tea is very long; as early as over 3,000 years ago during the period of King Wu's campaign against the state of Shang, the ancient tea-growing people, the Pu people, had already presented tea to King Wu of Zhou. At that time, however, it was not yet known as Pu'er tea. The Bangwei transitional ancient tea tree is a living fossil left behind by the ancient Pu people's cultivation and domestication of tea plants. Han Dynasty According to "The Records of the Grand Historian: The Western Regions," "The Kunming tribes have no leaders and are good at raiding and robbing, often killing and plundering Han envoys, making communication impossible. However, it is heard that to the west, some thousand miles away, there is an elephant-riding country called Dianyue, which traders from Shu sometimes reach." According to "The Annals of Xishuangbanna Prefecture," "In the 12th year of Yongping in the Eastern Han Dynasty (69 AD), Yongchang Commandery was established, and the region of Xishuangbanna fell under its jurisdiction." Jin Dynasty According to "The Records of Huayang Kingdom: Southern Regions," written by Chang Qum of the Jin dynasty, "Within Yongchang…

Basic Introduction to Dengcun Green TeaThe Dengcun Township of Yichang County, Hubei Province is located on the north bank of the Xiling Gorge of the Yangtze River, only 23 kilometers away from the site of the world-renowned Three Gorges Dam. The Dengcun tea grows on the slopes at an altitude of 800-1200 meters in this mountainous area and is a famous tea-producing region in Hubei Province. Due to its high altitude and large temperature difference between day and night, coupled with the hydro-meteorological effects of the Yangtze River and its water system, the mountains are often shrouded in mist and clouds, with abundant rainfall and fertile soil. This provides a unique and advantageous ecological environment for growing high-quality tea. Therefore, the quality of Dengcun tea is very excellent. According to tests conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture's Tea Quality Testing Center, the amino acid content in Dengcun tea reaches 5.76%, and the ratio of polyphenols to amino acids is appropriate, making it an ideal base for producing premium tea. Yichang Dengcun is one of China's oldest tea-growing regions. In his seminal work "The Classic of Tea," the "Tea Sage" Lu Yu of the Tang Dynasty compared tea qualities across the…