Endowed with coastal climes, abundant rainfall, and fertile soils, southeast China’s Fujian Province stands as a cornerstone in China’s tea industry. Home to more than 3 million mu (200,000 hectares) of tea gardens, Fujian cultivates a diverse array of tea varieties, including the renowned Fuding White Tea, Lapsang Souchong, Wuyi Rock Tea, Fuzhou Jasmine Tea, and Anxi Tieguanyin Tea.
In 2022, China exported 375,300 tonnes of tea, with Fujian leading in export value, accounting for over a quarter of the country’s total. This significant contribution underscores Fujian’s pivotal role in both national and global tea markets.
Recent years have seen Fujian make strides in ecological tea cultivation. Innovative growing models and scientific management practices have advanced the construction of ecological tea gardens. According to the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the total area of ecological tea gardens is expected to exceed 3 million mu by 2025. With over 95 percent of these gardens utilizing organic fertilizers, the province anticipates the total tea output value to surpass 200 billion yuan (approximately $28.2 billion).
Fujian is also steeped in rich tea culture, being among the origins of Chinese tea traditions. The local tea ceremony is a well-preserved embodiment of this heritage. It is not merely about preparing tea to enhance its flavor but is also a meditative and aesthetic ritual requiring precise skills and a peaceful mind.
For tea enthusiasts, a journey to Fujian offers an immersive experience into Chinese tea culture. Participating in a local tea ceremony allows one to witness the unfurling leaves that hint at the tea’s bold and robust character while savoring its subtle sweetness and fragrance.
Reference(s):
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