15 Days Best China Tea Tour to Hangzhou, Anhui, Fujian and Yunnan

Embark on a 15-day journey to discover the rich tea culture of China, exploring the most renowned tea regions and experiencing the authentic charm of the local tea traditions. Our “Best China Tea Tour” takes you to four provinces: Hangzhou, Anhui, Fujian, and Yunnan, where you’ll visit ancient tea plantations, tea museums, and bustling tea markets. Along the way, you’ll sample some of the world’s most prized teas, including Longjing Green Tea, Keemun Black Tea, and Pu’er Pu-erh Tea. From the picturesque West Lake in Hangzhou to the misty mountains of Yunnan, you’ll immerse yourself in the beauty and history of China’s tea heritage. Join us on this unforgettable adventure and discover the art of Chinese tea-making, from farm to cup.

Introduction

Join he 15-day tour to uncover the captivating world of Chinese tea, as we delve into the heart of four provinces: Hangzhou, Anhui, Fujian, and Yunnan. Our carefully crafted “Best China Tea Tour” offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient tea plantations, museums, and vibrant markets, where you’ll encounter some of the world’s most revered teas. From the serenely picturesque West Lake in Hangzhou to the mystical mountains of Yunnan, you’ll be immersed in the rich cultural heritage of China’s tea traditions. Along the way, you’ll savor the aromas and flavors of Longjing Green Tea, Keemun Black Tea, and Pu’er Pu-erh Tea, and learn the art of tea-making from farm to cup. This unforgettable journey promises to be an enchanting experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the ancient art of Chinese tea-making.

Hilights

  • Visit the famous West Lake, a popular spot for boating and tea drinking
  • Explore the historic Lingyin Temple, a major Buddhist temple in China
  • Sample the famous Longjing Green Tea and learn about its production process
  • Investigate the Huangshan Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning natural beauty and tea plantations
  • Discover the ancient town of Hongcun, famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture and tea culture
  • Learn about the production process of Keemun Black Tea and sample some of the best varieties
  • Stop bythe city of Fuzhou, known for its rich tea history and culture
  • Look into the ancient city of Anxi, famous for its Tieguanyin Oolong Tea
  • Study about the production process of White Tea and sample some of the best varieties
  • Wander around the ancient city of Lincang, known for its rich tea culture and stunning natural beauty
  • Explore the tea plantations of Pu’er City, famous for its Pu’er Pu-erh Tea
  • Learn about the production process of Pu’er Pu-erh Tea and sample some of the best varieties

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Hangzhou

Day 2: Hangzhou (West lake – Meijiawu Tea Plantation – Longjing Tea Factory)

Day 3:Hangzhou (Lingyin Temple Tour)

Day 4: Hangzhou – Huangshan

Day 5:  Huangshan (Black Tea Production Factory)

Day 6: Huangshan (National Park Tour)

Day 7: Huangshan-Nanping

Day 8: Nanping (Wuyi National Park Tour)

Day 9:Nanping Tea Factory Tour

Day 10: Nanping-Anxi

Day 11: Anxi-Kunming

Day 12: Kunming-Dali-Nanjian-Fengqing

Day 13: Fengqing – Baiyingshan -Yunxian

Day 14: Yunxian-Dazhai – Xigui – Lincang

Day 15: Lincang-Mengku-Lincang

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Hangzhou

Sightseeing and Activities: None

Accommodation: Hangzhou

Meals: None

  • Arrival in Hangzhou
    • Upon arriving at the Hangzhou Airport, you will be greeted by your local guide and driver at the exit of the airport.
    • They will then transfer you to your hotel, where you can check-in and rest after your journey.
    • The rest of the day is at your leisure to relax and get acclimated to your surroundings.
    • You may take a stroll around the city, visit nearby attractions, or simply take a break at your hotel.

Day 2: Hangzhou (West lake Tour- Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Longjing Tea Factory)

Sightseeing and Activities: visit West lake, Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Longjing Tea Factory

Accommodation: Hangzhou

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  •  Begin Your Day with a Delicious Breakfast
    • Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast, and then get ready for an unforgettable experience!
  • Discover the Serenity of West Lake
    • Your tour begins with a visit to the famous West Lake, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Hangzhou.
    • Take a leisurely boat ride and indulge in the serene atmosphere, surrounded by lush gardens and temples. This picturesque spot is perfect for a relaxing morning stroll.
  • Unwind at Meijiawu Tea Plantation
    • Next, head to the Meijiawu Tea Plantation, one of the oldest tea plantations in China.
    • Wander through the tea fields, and discover the art of tea production.
    • Learn about the history and process of green tea making, and experience the tranquility of this lush oasis.
  • Get Behind-the-Scenes at Longjing Tea Factory
    • Finally, visit the Longjing Tea Factory to gain insight into the art of green tea production.
    • Watch as skilled artisans carefully tend to the tea leaves, and learn about the various techniques used to create this iconic Chinese beverage.

Day 3: Hangzhou (Lingyin Temple Tour)

Sightseeing and Activities: Visit the Lingyin Temple, Explore Qinghefang Ancient Street

Accommodation:  Hangzhou

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  •  Step into Serenity at Lingyin Temple
    • Begin your day by visiting the iconic Lingyin Temple, a renowned Buddhist temple famous for its stunning architecture and beautifully manicured gardens.
    • Take a moment to appreciate the intricate carvings, paintings, and statues that adorn the temple’s walls and halls.
  • Wander Through Time on Qinghefang Ancient Street
    • After exploring the temple, head to Qinghefang Ancient Street, a charming historic street that has been well-preserved to showcase traditional Chinese architecture and culture.
    • Stroll along the cobblestone streets and discover shops selling local handicrafts, restaurants serving authentic Hangzhou cuisine, and street performers entertaining the crowd.
    • This is a unique opportunity to experience Hangzhou’s rich cultural heritage.

Day 4: Depature to Huangshan City

Sightseeing and Activities: the landscape of train, the bustling street of Huangshan city

Accommodation: Huangshan

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Early Morning Departure to Huangshan City
    • Start your day early, as you embark on a 2.5-hour train ride to Huangshan City where located in Anhui Province.
    • Upon arrival at the train station, your guide and driver will be waiting to greet you. They will escort you to your hotel, where you can check-in and freshen up.
  • Leisure Time to Explore the City
    • With the rest of the day at your leisure, take some time to explore Huangshan City on your own.
    • You may want to wander through the city’s charming streets, visit local markets, or try some of the local cuisine.
    • This is a great opportunity to experience the unique culture and daily life of the city.

Day 5: Chinese Black Tea Tour

Sightseeing and Activities: visit the black tea production at the local tea factory, making tea by yourself onder instruction

Accommodation: Huangshan

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • A Hands-on Tea-Making Experience
    • Today, you’ll have a unique opportunity to delve into the world of Chinese black tea production at a local tea factory.
    • Get ready to learn the art of tea-making from professionals and even try your hand at creating your own tea blend under their expert guidance.
  • Explore the Tea Factory and Learn About the Process
    • Visit the tea factory and take a step-by-step journey through the production process of Chinese black tea.
    • From plucking and withering to oxidation and firing, you’ll discover the traditional techniques and secrets behind creating this iconic beverage.
  • Hands-on Tea-Making Experience
    • Under the watchful eye of a professional tea master, you’ll learn how to carefully select, prepare, and brew your own black tea. Get ready to unleash your creativity and experiment with different blends, flavors, and aromas.
  • Take Home Your Own Handmade Tea Blend
    • As a memento of your experience, you’ll get to take home your very own handmade tea blend, crafted with love and care by your own hands.
    • This is a unique souvenir that will transport you back to the tranquil hills of Huangshan whenever you brew a cup.

Day 6: Huangshan National Park Tour

Sightseeing and Activities: visit Huangshan National Park, enjoy the landscape on the cable car

Accommodation: Huangshan

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Exploring the Majestic Huangshan National Park
    • Get ready for a thrilling adventure as you venture into the majestic Huangshan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty.
    • The park’s unique landscape, shaped by millions of years of erosion, will leave you in awe.
  • Cable Car Ride to the Top
    • Take a scenic cable car ride to the top of the mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
    • As you ascend, you’ll witness the stunning vistas unfold before your eyes, with towering pine trees, granite peaks, and mist-shrouded valleys stretching as far as the eye can see.
  • Breathtaking Views and Unforgettable Landscapes
    • From the summit, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the rolling hills, steep cliffs, and serene lakes. Take your time to soak in the tranquility of this natural wonderland, and capture the moment in your camera’s lens.

Day 7: Huangshan-Nanping 

Sightseeing and Activities: Sightseeing on the road

Accommodation: Nanping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  •  Arrival in Nanping City
    • Your day begins with an early morning train ride to Nanping City, located in the picturesque Fujian Province.
    • As you gaze out the window, take in the stunning scenery that unfolds before your eyes. Upon arrival at the train station, your local guide and driver will be waiting to greet you.
    • They will then escort you to your hotel, where you can freshen up and check-in. With some free time to yourself, feel free to explore the city at your leisure, immersing yourself in the local culture and getting a taste of what Nanping City has to offer.
  • Tea House Visit and Local Tea Culture
    • Visit a local tea house to learn about the rich tea culture and traditions of the region. Sit back, relax, and indulge in a cup of fragrant tea while learning about the history and production process of Chinese black tea.
    • Discover the unique brewing techniques and enjoy the serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and reflecting on your journey.

Day 8:Nanping (Wuyi National Park Tour)

Sightseeing and Activities:Visit Wuyi National Park

Accommodation: Nanping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  •  Explore the Natural Beauty of Mount Wuyi National Park
    • Today, you’ll venture to the breathtaking Mount Wuyi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its lush tea plantations and unspoiled natural surroundings.
    • As you wander through the park’s stunning landscapes, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the ancient traditions of Chinese tea production at a local factory.
    • Get an insider’s look at the process of crafting high-quality oolong tea, from harvesting to processing, and discover the secrets behind this beloved beverage’s distinct flavor and aroma.

Day 9: Tea Factory Tour

Sightseeing and Activities: visit the Nanping Tea Factory, enjoythe Chinese tea ceremony

Accommodation: Nanping

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Tea Factctory Tour
    • You will visit the Nanping Tea Factory today to gain insight into the art of black tea production.
    • With a professional guide, you will learn the techniques and processes involved in crafting this popular beverage.
  • Enjoy the tea ceremony with leisure time
    • Following lunch, take some time to unwind with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony in the afternoon.
    • This is a unique opportunity to experience the ancient customs and etiquette surrounding tea culture in China.

Day 10:Nanping – Anxi

Sightseeing and Activities:arrive Anxi county, visity the tea factory of Tieguanyin Oolong tea, wondering the county

Accommodation: Anxi County

Meals: Breakfast, Luch

  • Arrival and Transfer
    • This morning, you will depart from Nanting and arrive at Anxi County.
    • Your local guide will be waiting for you at the train station exit.
    • After that, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in.
  • Tea Exploration
    • Once settled in, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the tea factory of Tieguanyin oolong tea, where you can learn more about the production process of this famous tea variety.
  • Local Tea Culture
    • In the afternoon, take some time to explore the local tea markets and shops. This is a great chance to discover different types of teas, learn about their characteristics, and experience the rich tea culture of Anxi County.
  • Evening Delights
    • This evening, take a stroll around the city and enjoy the local atmosphere. You may want to try some traditional Anxi County cuisine or simply wander through the streets and take in the sights and sounds of this charming county.

Day 11: Anxi-Kunming

Sightseeing and Activities: arrive Anxi county, visity the Bangsheng Tea Market

Accommodation: Anxi county

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Your Journey Begins
    • Today, you will arrive in Quanzhou City from Anxi County by car.
    • Then You will take a flight to Kunming City in Yunnan Province, which will take approximately 1 hour.
    • Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will be waiting for you at the exit of the airport.
    • After settling in at the hotel, you’ll have a short break to rest and refresh.
  • Visit the Bangsheng Tea Market
    • Later, you’ll visit the Bangsheng Tea Market in Kunming, a great opportunity to experience the local culture and tea traditions.

Day 12: Kunming-Dali-Nanjian-Fengqing

Sightseeing and Activities: Nanjian Tulin Tea Factory, Xiaowan Dam, Xiangzhuqing Ancient

Accommodation: Fengqing County

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Drive to Nanjian
    • Today, you’ll begin our journey by driving to Nanjian from Kuynming.
  • Visit Nanjian Tulin Tea Factory
    • At the Nanjian Tulin Tea Factory, you’ll have the opportunity to see the processing procedures of Puer tea.
    • Along the way, you’ll make a stop to visit the Xiaowan Dam and Hydropower Station.
  • Xiangzhuqing Village
    • Your next destination is Xiangzhuqing Village in Xiaowan Township of Fengqing County. In the late afternoon, you’ll pay a visit to the Xiangzhuqing Ancient Tea Trees, also known as “the Mother of Tea Trees”.
  • The Ancient Tea Tree
    • This magnificent tree is approximately 35 feet tall, making it extremely tall for a tea tree. Its massive size is even more remarkable considering its incredible history – it’s recorded to be over 3,200 years old! The tree is now protected and fenced by the local government.

Day 13: Fengqing – Baiyingshan -Yunxian

Sightseeing and Activities: Bai Ying Shan Mountain, Baiyingshan Tea Plantation, Ergazi Tea, Lancang-Mekong River

Accommodation: Yunxian

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Savor Dianhong Milk Black Tea
    • Begin your day by experiencing the rich flavors of Dianhong Milk Black Tea at the hotel reception.
    • Yunnan black tea is fermented and roasted, and its polyphenols undergo an oxidative reaction under the action of oxidized syrup.
    • Drinking Yunnan black tea with milk can aid in reducing inflammation and protecting the gastric mucosa, and it also has a certain effect on the treatment of ulcers.
  • Baiying Shan Adventure
    • You’ll embark on a journey to Baiying Shan Mountain, located in Manwan Town of Yunxian County.
    • Visit the tea factory and tea mountain in Baiying Shan, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the production process of this renowned pu-erh tea.
  • Local Family Lunch and Return to Yunxian
    • Enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a local family, immersing yourself in the authentic culture of the region.
    • After lunch, transfer back to Yunxian for an overnight stay.
  • A Pu-erh Paradise
    • For pu-erh tea enthusiasts, Baiying Shan is a must-visit destination. The 2007 crop Baiying Shan pu-erh tea is particularly notable for its sweetness and rich, strong flavor.
  • Location and History of Baiying Shan
    • Baiying Shan is one of the branch mountains of Wu Liang Shan in Southwest Yunnan Lincang Region, near Lan Cang River.
    • Although it’s not yet well-known among Yunnan’s many tea mountains, Baiying Shan is the origin of Yunnan’s old big tea trees, as indicated by studies.
    • The oldest tea tree here is over 3,000 years old, and the biological character of the tea seeds from Baiying Shan’s old trees prove that it’s the birthplace of Yunnan Big Leaf Tea.
  • Unique Environment of Baiying Shan
    • The tea trees grow in Baiying Shan Village, where they’re spaced far apart. Many of these ancient trees are massive and thousand years old. The village is situated on the peak of the mountain, facing northeast and exposed to direct sunlight throughout the day. At night, the temperature drops significantly. The moisture from Lancang River rises to form clouds and mist, creating an ideal environment for high-quality tea production.

Day 14: Yunxian-Dazhai – Xigui – Lincang

Sightseeing and Activities: Chafang Township, Dazhai Township

Accommodation: Lincang

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Journey to Bangdong Town
    • We’ll begin our day by transferring to Bangdong Town via several towns, including Xiaojie, Chafang, Dazhai, Dachaoshan Xizhen, and Huangshahe Ancient Tea Trees.
    • Along the way, You’ll pass by the Huangshahe River and ancient tea tree forests, including Nuowu King of the Tea Tree, Zhishanqing, Xiyuan, Wangjiadi in Dachaoshan, and The Ancestor of Tea in Dazhai Town.
  • Arrival in Xigui
    • We’ll finally arrive at Xigui, where we’ll enjoy lunch and visit the Manglu Tea Mountain located along the bank of Lancang-Mekong River.
  • Tea Factory and Local Family Lunch and Villlage Visit
    • Visit the Xigui tea factory and have lunch with a local family.
    • We’ll also visit Nahan and Manggan tea villages.
  • Location and Environment of Xi Gui
    • Xi Gui is situated in Lincang county, Lincang city, Yunnan. It’s developed along the bank of the Mekong River (also known as Lincang Jiang in Chinese), where the fertile soil rich in calcium contributes to its unique characteristics.
  • Accessibility of Xi Gui
    • The road condition to Xi Gui has recently been improved, making it possible to reach Xi Gui from Lincang city center in under 5 hours by car.
    • This has led to an increasing number of high-amateur and tourist visitors from all over China and other countries.
  • Tea Tasting Notes
    • Many visitors are inexperienced in evaluating the quality of tea.
    • As a result, teas with a strong floral scent are particularly popular. However, teas produced with light pan-frying may not be suitable for long storage, as they can develop a black tea flavor and noise in taste over time.

Day 15: Lincang-Mengku-Lincang

Sightseeing and Activities: 5 Villages of Bingdao villages, Xiaohusai Village, Bingdao Lake

Accommodation: Lingcang

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Drive to Mengku Township
    • You’ll begin our day by driving to Mengku Township in the early morning.
  • Explore Bingdao Village
    • From Mengku Township, you’ll drive to Bingdao Village, a Luhu tribal village surrounded by green mountains and the origin of tea plantations in China.
    • You’ll have the opportunity to see several ancient tea trees over 2000 years old!
  • Drive to Mengku Township
    • You’ll begin our day by driving to Mengku Township in the early morning.
  • Explore Bingdao Village
    • From Mengku Township, we’ll drive to Bingdao Village (冰岛), a Luhu tribal village surrounded by green mountains and the origin of tea plantations in China.
    • You’ll have the opportunity to see several ancient tea trees over 2000 years old!
  • Experience the Lahu Culture and Visit 5 Villages
    • You’ll also have a chance to experience the rare and unique culture of the Lahu people, known for their colorful, traditional clothing.
    • Then you’ll visit 5 villages in Bingdao, including Dijie(地界), Bingdao Laozhai(冰岛老寨), Bawai(坝歪), Nanpo(南迫), and Nuowu Village(糯五).
    • You’ll have the chance to experience tea making in Dijie village and enjoy lunch there.
  • Origin and History of Bing Dao Puerh
    • Bing Dao Puerh is named after its village of origin, Bing Dao Village, located in Mengku County, Yunnan Province, China.
    • The name “Bing Dao” means “a village with bamboo gate” in Thai.
  • Tea Production for Bing Dao Puerh
    • Local villagers, mainly tribal Thai people, have a documented tea growing history dating back to the 15th century.
    • Bing Dao is made from ancient tea trees (gu shu) more than 300 years old and is stone-pressed in the traditional manner. The tea trees grow on the sunny side of Bang Ma Mountain, over 2500m above sea level.
  • Characteristics of Bing Dao Puerh
    • Bing Dao brews sweet, rich, and is pleasantly refreshing with almost no astringency.
    • It has a lasting sweet after-taste (huigan) in the throat and is sheng jin in character, meaning it leaves the palate feeling quenched.
    • The fragrance is lightly citrusy and flowery, with a note of wild honey.
  • Afternoon Departure
    • In the afternoon, drive to Xiaohusai(小户赛) Tea village and Dahusai Village.
      Transfer back to Lincang City in the late afternoon and see off.
  • Servie ends