Perched at 1,400 meters above sea level on Yunnan’s Jingmai Mountain in the Chinese mainland, over 3 million ancient tea trees thrive within primeval forests.
For nearly 2,000 years, forest and village communities have grown side by side, weaving tea cultivation into every aspect of local life.
The Blang people, guardians of these ancient groves, have refined a ritual known as roasted tea. Hand-roasting tea leaves over open fire pits releases deep, earthy aromas that tell stories of the forest.
This communal brew does more than invigorate palates; it weaves together generations, creating a living culture that sustains both landscape and community.
For today’s travelers, entrepreneurs and changemakers, Jingmai offers a blueprint for sustainable agriculture and cultural preservation. Visitors can join tea masters in the fire pit, learning techniques passed down for centuries.
In the shadow of these ancient giants, the Blang people’s craft reminds us that every cup can carry centuries of history and hope for the future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
