In the depths of Brown Mountain, Menghai County, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, lies a village brimming with historical charm and natural beauty—Ban Zhang Village. “Red wine is judged by its chateau, Pu'er by its mountain origin.”
Photograph of ancient tea tree branches in Ban Zhang by Zhang Hongping
Ban Zhang Village, a large family composed of five natural villages—Old Ban Zhang, New Ban Zhang, Laoman'e, Dakalong, and Dakanuan—each preserving unique cultural traditions of the Bulang, Hani, and Lahu ethnic groups. Here, ancient tea trees coexist with the forest, known for their great age and superior quality, earning Ban Zhang the title of “China's No.1 Pu'er Tea Village.” Tea farmer Tu Mei has been involved with tea since childhood. Her life is closely tied to tea, and she holds deep feelings for it. She reflects, “The techniques for making tea have become increasingly sophisticated, allowing the tea to retain more of its essence and aroma, resulting in higher-quality tea production.” The unique geographical and climatic conditions here make the Pu'er tea a favorite among countless tea enthusiasts.
Photograph of the ancient tea mountain trail in Brown Mountain by Zhang Hongping
The unique natural scenery and rich cultural heritage of Ban Zhang Village attract countless visitors. The area boasts clear waters and lush mountains, fresh air, and a spring-like climate year-round, making it an ideal place for Relaxation. On the ancient tea mountains of Brown Mountain, visitors can stroll among the tea trees, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of nature amidst the fresh morning mist; they can also visit villages with distinctive ethnic features, appreciating the landscape and culture of Ban Zhang while experiencing the vibrant local customs. Local specialty restaurants display signs that read “Free Old Ban Zhang Tea,” and staff dressed in traditional attire warmly welcome tourists, preserving a strong ethnic flavor.
In recent years, Ban Zhang Village has actively developed rural tourism by leveraging its unique Tea culture resources. Focusing on improving the village's appearance, the village has concentrated efforts on creating three tourist routes featuring ethnic village characteristics, tea-themed study tours, and outdoor health activities, planning 23 projects with a total investment of 130 million RMB. An increasing number of tourists come here to experience the joy of picking and making tea, feeling the peace and beauty of the countryside. Additionally, Ban Zhang Village actively promotes Pu'er tea culture through various tea festivals and events, attracting many tea culture enthusiasts for exchange and learning.
“We are always dedicated to making good tea, and things will surely get better in the future!” says Li Guifang, a Hani tea farmer, her eyes filled with anticipation. Looking ahead, Ban Zhang Village will continue to leverage its unique tea culture resources, delving deeper into the essence of tea culture, and enhancing the quality of rural tourism. At the same time, Ban Zhang Village will strengthen cooperation and exchanges with surrounding regions to jointly promote the prosperity and development of the tea culture industry.
Authors: Intern at Yunnan Net Zhou Rui, Zhang Hongping, Zhang Xin, Qian Jiangyue, and Chen Yiqing from Yunnan Normal University
Mentors: Wang Lin and Qin Rong
Reporters: Gu Zhen, Dai Zhenhua, Yang Zishuang, Zhang Shunqun, Duan Xiaozhao, Xu Zuo'ao, and Li Yafan