The 2026 spring tea harvest in Rizhao, a coastal city in Shandong Province, commenced on April 16 with a ceremonial event in Jufeng Town, marking the start of a critical season for one of northern China’s most distinctive agricultural products. Over 160,000 mu (approximately 10,667 hectares) of tea fields are now bustling with activity as farmers carefully pluck the first tender leaves of the year.
Renowned for its coastal green tea, Rizhao benefits from a unique microclimate where cooler northern temperatures and sea breezes slow leaf growth, intensifying the tea’s delicate flavor profile. This year’s harvest is particularly anticipated, with early spring rains and mild weather creating optimal conditions for the prized first flush—a batch often reserved for premium domestic and international markets.
Local authorities report that the tea industry supports over 300,000 residents in Shandong, with exports to Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia growing steadily since 2023. Analysts note that Rizhao’s tea sector has become a model for climate-resilient agriculture in northern regions, blending traditional techniques with modern sustainability practices.
