Exploring the Diverse World of Chinese Tea

Originating more than 4,000 years ago, Chinese tea is not just a drink but an integral part of the country's culture and history. Said to have been discovered by Emperor Shen Nong in 2737 BC, tea in China has transcended its role as a mere beverage to become a symbol of hospitality, a health tonic, and a source of pleasure, rightly earning its place among the "seven necessities" of daily life.

In the rolling tea fields that adorn provinces like Anhui, Fujian, Guangdong, and Yunnan, leaves are carefully picked and masterfully crafted into a variety of forms, each with its unique flavor and character.

Green Tea

Epitomizing the essence of nature, green tea is renowned for its fresh, astringent flavor and high antioxidant content. Among its revered varieties, Dragon Well tea, originating from the verdant hillsides of Hangzhou, stands out for its exceptional quality.

White Tea

White Tea is cherished for its subtle and delicate taste. Prized above all is the White Hair Silver Needle, a Fujian specialty recognized by the fine silvery down that graces its buds, delivering a light and ethereal steep.

Oolong Tea

Striking a balance between green and black teas, Oolong is celebrated for its varied intensity and complexity. Among the most notable are Iron Buddha and Big Red Robe, both of which carry with them stories as deep as their flavors.

Yellow Tea

A gem among teas, Yellow Tea is distinguished by its smooth, gentle profile. The prestigious Junshan Yinzhen, once reserved for royalty, is enveloped in the color of emperors and offers a taste of China's imperial past.

Black Tea

In the realm of darker brews, the misnomer 'black tea' is surpassed only by its rich and robust flavor. Keemun and the distinctively smoked Lapsang Souchong are among the finest, each holding a place of honor in the tapestry of Chinese tea.

Post-fermented Tea

Pu-erh, a staple of Yunnan province, is a fermented marvel known for enhancing digestion and its unique preparation, often presented in pressed, marked bricks that tell of its origin and age.

Flower Tea

From aromatic chrysanthemum to intoxicating jasmine, flower teas are a feast for the senses, either standing alone or harmoniously blended with green or white teas.

How to buy tea in China

With a rich tapestry of varieties, buying tea in China can be as much an adventure as it is a challenge. For those seeking authenticity, a visit to specialist shops or bustling markets like Beijing's Maliandao or Shanghai's Tianshan offers an immersive experience, with tastings that invite comparisons to find your preferred brew.