Dazhongshan Village of Xibanshan Mountain in Mengku Town, Lincang

Chinese Name: 勐库西半山：大忠山村
English Name: Dazhongshan Village of Xibanshan Mountain in Mengku Town, Lincang

Overview

Dazhongshan Village (大忠山村) is located in Dahusai Village (大户赛村), part of Mengku Town in Shuangjiang County, Lincang City. It lies in the western foothills of the Mengku Big Snow Mountain range, with an elevation of about 2,000 meters. The village is known for its dense fog, ample rainfall, and favorable climate for growing large-leaf tea trees. The area is renowned for its well-preserved primitive ecology and lush vegetation.

Location and Accessibility

  • Location: Dazhongshan is a remote Lahu ethnic village with only about ten households. It is considered one of the most secluded natural villages within the Dahusai administrative area. The village is enveloped in dense original forests, and the roads are extremely challenging to navigate. Locals are crucial for guiding visitors, as the area is difficult to find without local knowledge.
  • Environment: The village is surrounded by dense forests with various wild animals, making travel conditions treacherous. Visitors need to be cautious of wild predators and snakes.

Tea Characteristics

  • Tea Trees: The village is known for its ancient tea trees, which grow in the fertile, misty environment at the edge of the forest. The tea trees are in a natural, unpruned state, contributing to the unique quality of the tea.
  • Flavor Profile: Dazhongshan tea is praised for its fresh, wild flavor, with a smooth and rich taste that includes subtle sweetness reminiscent of rock candy. The tea has a well-rounded, pleasant profile, comparable to that of the renowned Bingdao tea.

Historical and Cultural Significance

  • History: Dazhongshan is a historic village, established by Lahu people who began settling there due to the fertile land and favorable growing conditions. The village has been cultivating tea for generations and maintains its traditional practices.
  • Cultural Context: Despite its isolation and the challenging conditions, the tea from Dazhongshan is highly regarded for its quality. The village’s tea production is considered on par with famous regions like Bingdao and Xiaohusai.

Summary

Dazhongshan Village is a hidden gem in Mengku’s tea-producing regions, known for its pristine natural environment and high-quality tea. The village’s remote location and challenging access contribute to its unique charm and the exceptional flavor of its tea. The combination of ancient tea trees and the lush, high-altitude environment makes Dazhongshan a remarkable place for tea enthusiasts.