Tea as Ancestral Guardian
On the misty slopes of Jingmai Mountain in the Chinese mainland's Yunnan province, the Blang people honor tea as an ancestor. Su Guowen, known locally as the "last prince" of the mountain, carries forward traditions passed down through centuries. He learned from his elders that each tea tree is a living link to his community's heritage.
From Local Leaves to Global Cups
Under Su's stewardship, the mellow Pu'er tea grown here has traveled beyond regional markets to cafes and shops across Asia, Europe and North America. According to local cooperatives, tea exports from Jingmai Mountain grew by nearly 25% this year, boosting incomes and fueling a renewed sense of local pride.
Sustainability at the Core
Yet as Pu'er's price surges, so do the risks of overharvesting and land degradation. Su's guiding principle is simple: protect the tea trees like you would your own eyes. He champions organic farming methods, natural composting and a digital traceability system that lets buyers scan a QR code to learn the origin of their leaves.
Invitation to Travelers and Changemakers
For young global citizens and eco-conscious travelers, Jingmai Mountain offers immersive experiences: hands-on tea picking, stays in homestays powered by solar energy and workshops on reforestation. Su believes that sharing his story can inspire a new generation to balance tradition and innovation.
From ancient rituals to digital marketplaces, Su Guowen's journey shows how deep respect for heritage can drive sustainable growth—not just for tea, but for communities worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
