Baoshan Coffee World Theme Park, also known as the Ningkang Village Theme Park in Longyang District, Baoshan City, Yunnan Province, is situated in Ningkang Village, Longyang District, Baoshan City, Yunnan Province. It belongs to the core area of the Gaoligong Mountain World Natural Heritage. It is a large-scale comprehensive cultural tourism area integrating “tourism + agriculture + culture + health + finance + poverty alleviation”. The Coffee World Theme Park covers an area of ​​6 square kilometers.

The Coffee World Theme Park fully utilizes the core resource of Asia’s best original ecological coffee fields. Due to the scarcity of resources, combined with the Gaoligong Mountain World Natural Heritage Site, it takes the form of a coffee-themed tourist park, covering aspects such as agricultural planting, leisure tourism, sports, health care, international coffee culture exchange centers, and coffee technology centers.

Location

• The Coffee World Theme Park is located in Ningkang Mountain, Longyang Town, Baoshan City, Yunnan Province, adjacent to the Gaoligong Mountain Nature Reserve. It is located at the end of the natural reserve, in the mountainous area with an altitude between 900-1700 meters, characterized by undulating terrain, winding rivers, an average annual temperature of 18 degrees Celsius, and a pleasant climate with green mountains and rivers, making it highly valuable for tourism and living. Gaoligong Mountain is a world-class natural reserve, characterized by high mountain canyon natural geographical environment, creating its biodiversity and three-dimensional climate landscape, vertical band landscape, and rich and diverse biological and plant resources, and is positioned by UNESCO as a world animal and plant gene bank.
• There are already 5,000 mu of high-quality coffee plantations in the local area, as well as characteristic economic crops such as wild walnuts, grass fruits, wild mushrooms, wild vegetables, and honey, etc.

Convenient transportation

• It is about 1 hour drive from the nearest three airports (45 minutes from Baoshan Airport, 45 minutes from Tengchong Airport, and 35 minutes from Mangshi Airport).
• The project uses about 6 square kilometers of land, including coffee plantations and resort villages, forests, and rivers.
• Different small villages are distributed in the planned area, and about 2,500 villagers live here.
• The project is located next to the Hangzhou-Ruili Expressway and is a necessary intermediate node for highways such as Dali to Tengchong, Mangshi, and Ruili.
• Baoshan City will open a new railway station in the first half of 2018, and trains will connect Dali and Baoshan, connecting famous Yunnan tourist routes such as Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La.

Advantages of the scenic area

• Unique resources: With Asia’s quality coffee plantation area, more than 5,000 mu of coffee has been planted, forming an ecological coffee garden with excellent quality and mellow taste, comparable to Blue Mountain coffee, and locally produced expensive civet coffee, which can provide reliable industrial support for the development of coffee deep tourism.
• The project is located at the end of the Gaoligong Mountain range, which is an ancient Silk Road. There are ancient road inns along the ancient road.
• Advanced concept: Modern technology and intelligent facilities cover the entire theme park area, so that you can still smoothly connect with the world while enjoying nature, sharing what you see and hear, fully reflecting the omnipresence of modern technology and intelligence, and realizing seamless connection between people and the world.
• The Coffee World Theme Park adheres to the concept of science, vitality, dynamic, and harmonious interaction between humans and nature for project development. It can be seen that it will continue to develop into a large-scale modernized resort area and industrial chain.

Coffee Products

• Build good coffee in China
• Western culture + Oriental charm, give full play to the special influence of “Baoshan Small Grain Coffee” as a national geographical indication product
• Tourism Products: Create the core attractiveness of Ningkang Mountain’s Qing Shan Green Water livable tourist resort
• Scenic Landscape: Coffee Cultural Area, European-style town style, rich in cultural atmosphere. Will develop a coffee cultural village, introduce replicated movie scenes, famous writer story scenes, and famous coffee shops from around the world, allowing people to discover and experience Western and even international coffee culture.
• International Expo Area: Displaying different national cultures. Will cooperate to build 11 national coffee display parks. Will cooperate with governments or brands from different countries to plant coffee, planning to cooperate with 10 different countries. This cooperation will be based on cultural exchange, agricultural technology exchange, promotion and display of culture, local customs and practices, tourism resources, cuisine, and specialties.
• High Tower Park Area: Bird’s eye view. As the symbol of the project, it is located on the highest peak, where you can enjoy endless beautiful natural scenery and cultural landscapes. The observation tower will be clearly visible on the approximately 40-kilometer-long expressway. The observation tower can host concerts and light shows, with on-site lighting everywhere, presenting a very beautiful night scene, which will be promoted to the world through modern networks.
• Marriage and Love Flower Sea Area: Romantic and strong. It will be composed of small churches, horse riding routes, flower worlds, Ferris wheels, and other elements suitable for marriage and love.
• Natural Landscape Area: Harmony and integration. Live on the coffee field, taste the freshest coffee, watch the clouds rise, walk through the green wilderness, concentrate on meditation, or enjoy chatting with friends.
• Waterside Activities Area: Happy and open-hearted. Based on drifting activities, as well as hiking routes along lakes, rivers, and mountains, to experience nature, attracting young people to discover a rich natural and human world through experience.
• Holiday Health Area: Enjoy the noble. Develop a unique leisure health vacation mode, providing special coffee hydrotherapy and other health therapies.
• Dynamic Sports Area: Healthy and dynamic. Based on the mountain terrain, chess halls, bicycle lanes, hiking trails, rock climbing, camping, field games, zip lines, cable cars, forest trains, personal roller skating and other projects

Zhaotong Tianma昭通天麻, a specialty of Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, is a Chinese geographical indication product. Zhaotong is renowned for its ideal environment across its 11 counties and cities where wild Gastrodia Elata thrives, boasting the highest yield and best quality among all Tianma-producing regions in China. According to the “Compendium of Chinese Specialty Products,” Zhaotong’s Tianma is described as large, plump, and brightly yellow-white, known as Yun Tianma.

Tianma is a precious traditional Chinese medicine primarily composed of gastrodin. It possesses various therapeutic and tonic functions such as anti-epileptic, anti-convulsant, anti-rheumatic, sedative, antispasmodic, analgesic, and tonic effects. Clinically, it is used to treat conditions like hypertension, vascular neuralgia, post-concussion syndrome, speech impediments, rheumatism, limb spasms, and infantile convulsions with notable efficacy.

On October 13, 2004, the former General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine of China approved the geographical indication protection for “Zhaotong Tianma”.

Processing Techniques

The processing of Zhaotong Gastrodia Elata follows traditional methods. Harvesting occurs annually in November when fresh Gastrodia Elata is dug out, graded, and washed. The different grades of Gastrodia Elata tubers are then placed into bamboo steamers or wooden rice steamers. They are steamed vigorously for 8 to 15 minutes until thoroughly cooked. After steaming, they are taken out to air-dry to remove moisture. Subsequently, they are placed in a drying room or on low-sulfur smokeless coal fires for baking. The temperature is controlled between 60°C to 80°C. During baking, the Gastrodia Elata is continuously flipped and kneaded by hand to shape it until fully dried. Practical experience has shown that this processing method preserves the medicinal components of Gastrodia Elata without damage.

Origin Environment

Zhaotong Gastrodia Elata originates from Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, located in the northeastern part of Yunnan Province between 105°52′ to 105°19′ east longitude and 26°34′ to 28°40′ north latitude. It is a typical mountainous region with crisscrossing gullies, steep terrain, high mountains, deep valleys, and few plains.

The primary production area of Zhaotong Gastrodia Elata features gurgling streams, ancient towering trees, and fresh air, forming a natural environment rarely disturbed by human activities. This area serves as a transitional zone from the Sichuan Basin to the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, where warm and cold air masses converge, creating a semi-stable climate known as the Kunming quasi-stationary front climate. It is characterized by abundant rainfall and limited sunshine throughout the year. Moreover, the pristine forests remain undisturbed, preserving biodiversity and providing excellent conditions such as natural humus soil for the growth of Gastrodia Elata.

Whether grown wild or cultivated under forest canopy, Zhaotong Gastrodia Elata completes its growth cycle under natural tree cover without the use of fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. This practice ensures that the original ecological, pollution-free, and authentic qualities of Zhaotong Gastrodia Elata are maintained. It is an essential condition for sustainable development, ensuring the quality resembling wild Gastrodia Elata while safeguarding the ecological environment.

Historical Origins

In the Tang Dynasty, the renowned poet Bai Juyi’s poem “斋居” includes the line “黄芪数匙粥，赤箭一瓯汤”, mentioning Huangqi (Astragalus membranaceus) and Tianma (Gastrodia elata) as ingredients for cooking porridge and soup. Tianma was also known as “赤箭” (Chijian) in ancient times, highlighting its dual role as both a food and medicinal herb during this period. The Tang Dynasty calligrapher Liu Gongquan’s work “求赤箭贴” similarly depicts Tianma’s use as a nourishing food for the elderly.

Moving to the Ming Dynasty, Li Shizhen’s “Compendium of Materia Medica” documented several methods of consuming Tianma: “Some eat it raw, some cook or steam it,” and “Some fry it with honey for a special treat.”

The fame of Zhaotong Tianma spread far and wide. In the 50th year of the Qing Emperor Qianlong’s reign (1785), the Prefect of Yibin in Sichuan presented specially selected Tianma to honor Emperor Qianlong’s birthday, showcasing its prestigious status. This sparked a trend where local officials used Tianma to curry favor or advance their careers, becoming a societal issue. From the late Qing Dynasty through the Republic of China era, the annual Tianma harvesting season turned remote areas like Xiaocaoba into bustling markets, with daily trade reaching over a thousand kilograms.

In the 1950s, due to excessive wild harvesting, Zhaotong Tianma faced declining yields. To meet domestic and international market demands sustainably, Zhaotong began experiments on sexual and asexual reproduction of Tianma under the guidance of the Kunming Institute of Botany starting from the late 1950s.

In 1973, “Chinese Xiaocaoba Tianma” fetched an astonishing price of 120,000 yuan per ton at the Guangzhou Autumn Trade Fair.

By 1978, scientific achievements in cultivating Tianma were verified and promoted across 11 cities and counties.

Production Situation

From 2011 to 2014, Zhaotong City accumulated a total of 240,900 hectares of Tianma cultivation, yielding 74.55 million kilograms, and achieving a cumulative production value of 10.923 billion yuan.

In 2015, Tianma cultivation area in Zhaotong reached 70,000 hectares, yielding 21 million kilograms of commercial hemp, with a total production value of 2.7 billion yuan.

By 2017, the Tianma cultivation area in Zhaotong expanded to 80,500 hectares, achieving a total production value of 3.97 billion yuan, including 2.54 billion yuan from cultivation and 1.43 billion yuan from processing. The average annual income of impoverished local residents engaged in Tianma cultivation exceeded 4,450 yuan per person, setting a historical record.

Product Honors

On October 13, 2004, the former General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine approved the implementation of geographical indication protection for “Zhaotong Tianma.”

Geographical Indication

Scope of Geographical Protection

The geographical scope of Zhaotong Tianma origin protection is defined by the Zhaotong Municipal People’s Government of Yunnan Province in the document “Letter on Defining the Scope of Geographical Origin Protection of Zhaotong Tianma” (Zhaopolitics [2004] No. 126), covering the current administrative area of Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province.

Quality and Technical Requirements

(1) Varieties: Black Tianma, Yellow Tianma.

(2) Planting Range: Suitable planting areas between 1,400 meters and 2,800 meters above sea level.

(3) Cultivation Techniques:

Substrate: Trees from Fagaceae, Betulaceae, and Rosaceae families.
Strain: High-quality local strains of Armillaria mellea.
Planting: Both sexual and asexual reproduction methods are employed in standardized plantation under forest cover.
Growth Cycle: Mature Gastrodia elata (winter Tianma) planted for at least two years.
Harvesting Time: Around the winter solstice each year.
(4) Processing: After harvesting, Tianma is graded, cleaned, steamed with circulating steam until fully cooked, and then dried at 60°C to 80°C.

(5) Quality Characteristics: Tianma pieces are predominantly wide-ovate or ovate, with some elliptical or oblong-elliptical shapes, slightly curved and slightly flattened. They are hard and not easily broken. Tianma pieces are classified into four grades based on size after drying: special grade, first grade, second grade, and third grade. They contain Gastrodin (C13H18O7) ≥ 0.4% and moisture content below 13%.

Special Logo Usage

Producers within the geographical origin of Zhaotong Tianma who wish to use the “Geographical Origin Product Special Logo” must apply to the local quality and technical supervision bureau’s Zhaotong Tianma Geographical Origin Product Protection declaration institution. Upon passing the initial review and approval announced by the former General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine, they are permitted to use the “Zhaotong Tianma Geographical Origin Product Special Logo.”

Historical and Cultural Significance

Legend One: Tianma Treats Headaches

In the “Records of the Three Kingdoms,” it is documented that due to constant military and administrative duties, Cao Cao suffered severe headaches. Seeking relief, Cao Cao consulted numerous physicians until he finally met Dong Feng. Dong Feng, after thorough examination, specially prepared Tianma pills for Cao Cao. Upon taking them, Cao Cao experienced significant relief from his headaches. He continued to use Tianma, sometimes adding it to his meals, thus popularizing its consumption.

Legend Two: Aid in Conquering Fire and Paving the Way

According to the “Annals of Zhenxiong Prefecture,” during the Three Kingdoms period, Zhuge Liang led the Shu army on a southern expedition, passing through what is now known as Xiaocaoba. The Tianma here played a significant role in Zhuge Liang’s successful campaign. Departing from Chengdu, Zhuge Liang arrived at Xiaocaoba. Upon arrival, he noticed that his soldiers, under the strain of transitioning from the Chengdu plains to the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, suffered from dizziness and reduced combat effectiveness. Zhuge Liang then ordered the consumption of Tianma, which swiftly alleviated these symptoms. Later, the Yi ethnic leader Ji Huo was honored as the King of Luodian by Liu Bei for his contributions.

Legend Three: Empress Dowager Cixi’s Use of Tianma to Treat Facial Neuralgia

During the Guangxu period of the Qing dynasty, Empress Dowager Cixi suffered from facial neuralgia. Tianma, combined with other wind-expelling and blood circulation-improving medicines, was ground into powder, mixed with wine, and applied as a hot compress to the affected areas. This treatment gradually alleviated her condition. Zhang Zhicong, a renowned physician of the Qing dynasty, praised Tianma as equivalent to the Five Roots and superior to the Five Ginsengs, labeling it as a top-grade medicinal herb fit for immortals.

Legend Four: Emperor Guangxu’s Use of Tianma for Headaches

Emperor Guangxu faced significant external and internal challenges, often suffering from severe headaches and dizziness. Eventually, he discovered a remarkable remedy—a decoction of Tianma combined with other medicinal herbs, which he used to wash his head. This treatment notably improved his headaches.

These historical anecdotes illustrate Tianma’s longstanding reputation in traditional Chinese medicine for treating various ailments, from headaches and dizziness to neuralgia, underscoring its enduring cultural and medicinal significance throughout Chinese history.

China Tea Plantations are becoming popular destinations for tea tours in China, especially the famous and most beautiful tea plantations. Tea plantations and gardens are good sites to experience Chinese tea culture, such as tea picking, tea making and tasting teas, etc.

As a country with long history of drinking tea, China is one of the most important tea-producing countries. The written history of tea consumption in China goes back longer than in any other country, thousands of years. According to a report released by the China Social Science Academy Press, China is the world’s largest tea producer.  In 2007, China produced over 30% of the world’s production of tea, almost 1.2 million tons of tea out of the world’s almost 3.9 million tons. Most of the tea produced in China is consumed in China, although tea is also an important export good for China.

China’s tea production is widespread, with tea grown in thousands of counties across 21 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities), including Zhejiang, Hunan, Hubei, Anhui, Sichuan, Fujian, Yunnan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Henan, Taiwan, Shandong, Tibet, Gansu, and Hainan. Vertically, tea trees are cultivated at elevations as high as 2,600 meters, and as low as just a few meters above sea level. Different regions support various types and varieties of tea trees, affecting the quality, suitability, and adaptability of the tea, thus creating a diverse tea structure.

Nationally, tea-growing areas can be divided into four major tea regions: the Jiangbei Tea Region, Jiangnan Tea Region, Southwest Tea Region, and South China Tea Region.

Tea-Producing Areas

Tea tends to be produced mostly in the provinces towards the south and east of China, where the climate is humid and ranges from tropical to subtropical, although teas are grown commercially from Hainan Island down in the extreme south to Shandong Province in the north, from Tibet in the southwest to Taiwan across the Straits. Because of varying geographic location and climate, different regions grow various kinds of tea. In general, there are four tea-producing areas.

South West of China (Southwest China Tea Region)

The area is considered to be the original birthplace of the tea plant. It embraces the southwest provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan, Guizhou and part of the Tibet Autonomous Region, producing green, black, post-fermented and compressed teas.  Although with a big span of altitude, the climate of most parts of this region is relatively moderate and stable, especially in Yunnan. Famous teas from this region inlcude Dianhong black tea, aged Shai Hong black tea, ripe and raw pu’er tea, Mengding yellow tea, and Duyun Maojian green tea, wherein Pu’er tea from Yunnan Province is the most famous in China and abroad.

The Southwest China Tea Region is located in the southwestern part of China, south of the Milun Mountain and Daba Mountain, north of the Hongshui River, Nanpan River, and Yingjiang, west of the Shennongjia, Wushan, Fangdoushan, and Wuling Mountains, and east of the Dadu River. This region includes parts of Guizhou, Sichuan, northern Yunnan, and southeastern Tibet. It encompasses Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and southeastern Tibet, making it one of China’s oldest tea regions. The region has abundant tea tree varieties, including shrub-type, small tree-type, and in some areas, tree-type tea trees. It primarily produces black tea, green tea, tuo tea, compressed tea, and Pu’er tea, and is one of the main bases for developing large-leaf black teas.

The Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau is the center of tea tree origin. The terrain is complex, with most areas being basins and plateaus, and the soil types are diverse. In central and northern Yunnan, the soil is mainly red soil, mountain red soil, and brown soil; in Sichuan, Guizhou, and southeastern Tibet, yellow soil predominates with some brown soil. The soil’s organic matter content is generally richer than in other tea regions, and the soil conditions are suitable for tea tree growth. The altitude varies greatly in regions of the same latitude within the Southwest Tea Region, leading to significant climate differences. Most areas have a subtropical monsoon climate, with mild winters and not-too-hot summers.

Sichuan

The Sichuan tea industry has risen in national rankings, significantly increasing its influence. Sichuan has established three major tea production areas: Western Sichuan, Southern Sichuan, and Northeastern Sichuan. The rate of premium tea mechanism has reached over 70%, leading the nation. Sichuan has the highest tea consumption in all tea houses across China.

Famous Teas:

• Green Tea: Meng Mountain’s Mengding Tea, Mengding Ganlu, Mengding Chunlu, Wanchun Silver Leaf, Yuye Changchun; Ya’an’s Emei Mao Feng, Jin Jian Tea, Yucheng Silver Bud, Yucheng Yunwu, Yucheng Luya; Guanxian’s Qingcheng Xueya; Yongchuan’s Xiuya; Qionglai’s Wenjun Green Tea; Emei Mountain’s Eixin, Bamboo Leaf Green; Leibo’s Huanglang Maojian; Daxian’s Sanqing Bilian; Leshan’s Muo Ruo Xiangming; Chongqing’s Bashan Silver Bud, Jinyun Mao Feng, Dazhu Song Ming.
• Black Tea: Yibin’s Early White Tip Gongfu Black Tea, Nanchuan’s Large Leaf Black Fragmented Tea.
• Compressed Tea: Chongqing Tuo Tea.

Chongqing

Chongqing people have traditionally enjoyed Tuo tea due to its strong flavor, rich aroma, durability, and affordability, with an annual sales volume of 2700 tons. Chongqing Tuo tea is known for its strong taste, lingering sweetness, and high quality, having won international gold awards. Notable types include Shancheng Tuo Tea and Export Tuo Tea, which dominate the Chongqing Tuo Tea market. Approximately 80% of Chongqing Tuo tea comes from Yunnan.

Yunnan

Yunnan is the top tea-producing province in China, with a tea cultivation history of over 1700 years, making it one of China’s oldest tea regions. Its long history of tea production, rich genetic resources, and advantageous low-latitude plateau climate have made it globally recognized as the origin of tea trees and a major tea production base in China.

Famous Teas:

• Green Tea: Menghai’s Nannuo Baihao, Yunhai Baihao, Bamboo Tube Fragrant Tea; Yiliang’s Baohong Tea; Dali’s Cangshan Snow Green; Mojian’s Yunjian; Luxi’s Mayu Tea; Mouding’s Huafuo Tea; Daguan’s Cuihua Tea.
• Black Tea: Fengqing and Menghai’s Dianhong Gongfu Black Tea, Yunnan Black Fragmented Tea.
• Black Tea: Xishuangbanna and Simao’s Pu’er Tea. Compressed Tea includes Xiguan’s Yunnan Tuo Tea.

Guizhou

Guizhou is located at the junction of the Jiangnan, South China, and Southwest tea regions, with mountainous and hilly areas accounting for 92.5% of the province. It boasts over 7 million acres of vast “tea seas,” and its tea garden area has ranked first in the country for seven consecutive years. The entire province can be seen as the “central tea mountain” on China’s tea map.

In southwestern Guizhou, early-harvest green tea such as Pu’an tea, picked in early February, is the first sign of “spring” in Guizhou tea; in northwestern Guizhou, high mountain teas often grow in the “high mountain mist” at altitudes above 1400 meters.

Zunyi in northern Guizhou and Duyun in southern Guizhou are known for their prestigious teas. Guizhou’s famous teas include Du Yun Maojian, Meitan Cuiya, and Zunyi Red, all of which are concentrated in these areas. Zunyi is also one of the regions for the green gem.

In eastern Guizhou, Tongren not only produces high-quality green teas like Shiqian Tea and Fanjing Cui Feng but has also developed an export tea industry. Notably, Guizhou matcha is produced here. The Guizhou Tea Group’s 140,000-acre ecological tea garden, combined with EU food safety standards and Japanese top matcha production techniques, enables Guizhou matcha to be exported overseas, making Guizhou tea not only “go out of the mountains” but also “go abroad.”

Guizhou’s tea industry currently promotes “three greens and one red,” with the three greens being Du Yun Maojian, Meitan Cuiya, and Green Gem, and the one red being Zunyi Red. These four varieties are excellent local types. Although Guizhou tea has strong inherent advantages, it missed early promotion opportunities due to inconvenient transportation and information isolation, remaining less known to tea enthusiasts. The transformation is not a one-day process, and the green tea market is highly competitive. However, there is hope that Guizhou tea will soon gain broader recognition in the public eye.

Guizhou is the only original ecological tea region in China with “low latitude, high altitude, and low sunlight.” Most areas of Guizhou are shrouded in mist throughout the year, which suits the tea tree’s shade tolerance. The soil is mainly acidic, loose, well-drained, and rich in trace elements such as selenium and zinc.

Major Tea Production Areas:

• Guiyang: Yangai, Kaiyang, Jiuan
• Zunyi: Meitan, Fengfeng, Zheng’an, Yuqing
• Tongren: Yinjiang, Shiqian, Songtao, Jiangkou, Dejiang, Yanhe, Sinan
• Bijie: Jinsha, Nayong
• Anshun: Puding, Xixiu, Zhenning
• Liupanshui: Shuicheng, Panxian
• Southwest Guizhou Bouyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture: Pu’an, Qinglong
• South Guizhou Bouyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture: Duyun, Guiding, Dushan, Pingtang
• Southeast Guizhou Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture: Leishan, Liping, Kaili Xianglu Mountain, Danzhai, Zhenyuan

South of China (South China Tea Region)

This area includes the southern provinces of Guangdong, Fujian, Taiwan, Hainan and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, which are endowed with rusty-red soil, an annual average temperature of 19-22 Centigrade degrees and the most annual rainfall among all tea-producing areas in China. It is mostly famous for black tea, Oolong and white tea production, with lots of varieties and excellent quality. Tie Guan Yin and Da Hong Pao belong to the most popular types.

The South China Tea Region is located in southern China, encompassing areas south of the Dazhang River, Yanshi River, Meijiang River, Lianjiang River, Xunjiang River, Hongshui River, Nanpan River, Wuliang Mountain, Baoshan, and Yingjiang. It includes central and southern Fujian, Taiwan, central and southern Guangdong, Hainan, southern Guangxi, and southern Yunnan. This region is considered one of the most suitable areas for tea tree cultivation in China.

In the South China Tea Region, there are various types of tea tree species, including trees, small trees, and shrubs. The tea resources are extremely abundant, producing types such as black tea, oolong tea, flower tea, white tea, and Liu Bao tea. The region’s large-leaf black teas are known for their strong tea liquor.

Except for a few areas in northern Fujian, northern Guangdong, and northern Guangxi, the annual average temperature ranges from 19°C to 22°C, with the lowest monthly average (in January) between 7°C and 14°C. The tea-growing season lasts for more than 10 months, and the annual precipitation is the highest among Chinese tea regions, generally between 1200 mm and 2000 mm. Taiwan, in particular, experiences very high rainfall, often exceeding 2000 mm annually. The soil in this region is mainly red soil, with some areas also having red and yellow soil. The soil is deep and rich in organic matter.

Fujian

Fujian has a long history of tea production, dating back to the Tang Dynasty with varieties such as Lamei tea, Fangshan Luya, Baiyan tea, Xiaojiang Garden tea, Tang tea, and Fuzhou Zhenghuang tea. During the Song Dynasty, Jianzhou (now Jian’ou County) was the main production area for tribute tea, producing more than 40 types of Bei Yuan tribute tea, and Wuyi tea from Wuyi Mountain is also very famous. Today, Fujian’s traditional and newly created premium teas exceed 60 varieties, including oolong tea, green tea, white tea, black tea, and flower tea.

Famous Teas:

• Oolong Tea: Wuyi Rock Tea, Da Hong Pao, Minbei Shui Xian, Anxi Tieguanyin, Huang Jin Gui, Yong Chun Buddha’s Hand, Ba Xian Tea, Ba Jiao Ting Long Xu Tea, Bai Ya Qi Lan, Zhangping Shui Xian Cake Tea.
• Black Tea: Zhengshan Xiaozhong, Bai Lin Gongfu, Tan Yang Gongfu, Zhenghe Gongfu.
• Flower Tea: Fuzhou Jasmine Tea.
• Green Tea: Tianshan Green Tea, Qi Jing Tang Green Tea, Shiting Green Tea, Dingfeng Maojian, Xueshan Maojian, Fuyun Qu Mao, Daxian Peak Mao Tea, Funing Yuanxiao Green.
• White Tea: Bai Hao Yin Zhen, Bai Mao Hou, Bai Mudan, Gong Mei, etc.

Currently, the structure of tea consumption is roughly as follows: Oolong tea, white tea, and small-leaf black tea are the most consumed and highest quality specialty teas nationwide. Among these, Anxi Tieguanyin and Wuyi Rock Tea are also listed among the top ten teas in the country.

Tieguanyin and Da Hong Pao have become synonymous with Fujian tea. Fujian, as the birthplace of the four major tea types—black tea, oolong tea, white tea, and flower tea—has produced globally popular Zhengshan Xiaozhong and Tan Yang Gongfu black teas, as well as nationally renowned Fuzhou Jasmine Tea.

Guangdong

Guangdong has a long history of tea production, with varieties such as Luofu tea, Lingnan tea, Shaozhou Sheng Huang tea, Xixiang Yan Gao tea, and Xiqiao tea dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Today, the province has more than 40 traditional and newly created premium teas, including green tea, black tea, oolong tea, white tea, yellow tea, black tea, flower tea, and health teas.

Famous Teas:

• Oolong Tea: Fenghuang Dancong, Lingtou Dancong, Fenghuang Shui Xian, Shigu Ping Oolong, Raoping Sezong, Da Ye Qi Lan, etc.
• Green Tea: Gulao Tea, Lechang Bai Mao Tea, Guangbei Yin Jian, Renhua Yin Hao Tea.
• Black Tea: Yingde Black Tea, Jin Hao Tea, Lychee Black Tea.
• Flower Tea: Rose Black Tea, Guangzhou Jasmine Tea, Chrysanthemum Pu’er Tea.
• Health Tea: Pin Chang Chun Jian Ti Oolong Tea.

Guangdong is renowned for its tea culture, with locals known for their tea appreciation. This has made Guangdong the largest tea-consuming province in China. Guangdong people prefer locally produced oolong tea and green tea, with particular popularity for varieties such as black tea, Dancong tea, and Sezong tea.

Guangxi

Guangxi has a long history of tea production, with varieties such as Lüxian tea, Xiangzhou tea, and Rongzhou bamboo tea dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Today, the region has more than 30 traditional and newly created premium teas, including black tea, green tea, black tea, and flower tea.

Famous Teas:

• Black Tea: Guangxi Black Fragmented Tea.
• Black Tea: Cangwu Liu Bao Tea.
• Green Tea: Guiping Xishan Tea, Lingyun Bai Mao Tea, Qintang Maojian, Lijiang Silver Needle, Bai Niu Tea, Longji Tea, Guilin Maojian, Tunba Tea, Nanshan Bai Mao Tea, Longshan Green Tea.
• Flower Tea: Hengxian Jasmine Tea, Osmanthus Tea.

Hainan

Hainan has a long history of tea production, with varieties such as Qiongshan bud tea and leaf tea dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Today, the province has more than 10 traditional and newly created premium teas, including red tea and green tea.

Hainan, located at the southernmost tip of China, is renowned for its “Hua Xia’s First Early Spring Tea.” The tea industry is a distinctive and emerging industry in Hainan Province.

Famous Teas:

• Red Tea: Hainan Black Fragmented Tea, CTC Black Fragmented Tea.
• Green Tea: Baisha Green Tea, Wuzhishan Xian Hao, Jinding Longjing, Longling Qi Lan, Chunlan, Hainan Da Bai Hao, Longling Maojian, Baima Ridge Tea, etc.

Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, loose-leaf tea is predominantly sold. Tea shops use transparent glass containers for easy viewing and brew the tea on-site.

Tea houses and food stores make up 80% of the market, offering mid- to low-range teas, while home consumption accounts for 20%, with high-end teas such as Longjing being popular.

South of Yangtze River (Jiangnan Tea Region)

This area lies south of the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, covering the provinces of Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Hubei, Hunan and the southern parts of Anhui and Jiangsu. This region has the most centered tea production in China,  with four distinctive seasons and abundant precipitation. Green tea is the principal variety turned out here, such as the famous Longjing. But in some mountainous regions where the local climate is agreeable to tea growing, several premium teas are produced. These include  Black tea and Oolong tea, for example the famous Keemun tea and Phoenix Dancong.

The Jiangnan Tea Region is located in the southern part of the Yangtze River Basin in China, south of the Yangtze River, north of the Dazhangxi, Yanshi, Meijiang, and Lianjiang rivers. It includes areas such as northern Guangdong, northern Guangxi, northern Fujian, Hunan, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, southern Hubei, southern Anhui, and southern Jiangsu. This region is one of China’s main tea-producing areas, with an annual output accounting for about two-thirds of the national total. The main types of tea produced include green tea, black tea, dark tea, and floral teas, with notable varieties such as West Lake Longjing, Huangshan Maofeng, Dongting Biluochun, Junshan Yinzhen, and Lushan Yunwu.

The Jiangnan Tea Region is mostly situated in low hill and low mountain areas, but it also includes high mountains with elevations around 1000 meters, such as Tianmu Mountain in Zhejiang, Wuyi Mountain in Fujian, Lushan in Jiangxi, and Huangshan in Anhui. The climate in these regions features distinct seasons, with an average annual temperature of 15°C to 18°C and winter temperatures generally around -8°C. Annual rainfall ranges from 1400 to 1600 millimeters, with the majority falling in spring and summer (60% to 80% of the annual total), and autumn being relatively dry. The soil in this tea region is mainly red soil, with some yellow soil or brown soil, and a few areas with alluvial soil. The tea trees grown here are mostly shrub-like medium-leaf and small-leaf varieties, with a smaller portion being small tree-type medium-leaf and large-leaf varieties. The Jiangnan Tea Region is well-suited for developing green tea, oolong tea, floral teas, and special teas.

Jiangsu

Jiangsu has a long history of tea production, with notable teas such as Yangxian Zisun, Runzhou Tea, Dongting Mountain Tea, and Shugang Tea dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Today, the province has over 30 traditional and newly created high-quality teas, including green tea, black tea, and floral tea.

Notable Teas:

• Green Tea: Dongting Biluochun, Nanjing Yuhua Tea, Maoshan Qingfeng, Yangxian Xueya, Wuxi Mao Tea, Jinshan Cuiya, Jintan Que She, Jingxi Yunpian, Nanshan Shoumei, Qianfeng Xuelian, Maoshan Changqing, Yinya Tea, Yangzhou Lvyang Chun, Shuixi Cui Bai, Taihu Cuizhu, Erquan Yinhao.
• Floral Tea: Suzhou Jasmine Tea.
• Black Tea: Yixing Black Tea.

Zhejiang

Zhejiang also has a long history of tea production, with famous teas such as Guzhu Zisun, Jingshan Tea, Jiukeng Tea, Wuzhou Fang Tea, Ju Yan Tea, Dongbai Tea, Shuanxi Tea, Lingyin Tea, Tianmu Tea, and Mingzhou Tea dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The province now has over 70 traditional and newly created high-quality teas, including green tea, black tea, yellow tea, floral tea, and white tea.

Notable Teas:

• Green Tea: Chaoqing Mei Tea, Zhu Tea, Longjing Tea, Guzhu Zisun, Jin Award Huiming Tea, Pujiang Chunmao, Yin Monkey Tea, Tianmu Qing Ding, Yandang Maofeng, Dongbai Chunya, Kaihua Longding, Jingshan Green Peony, Jinchuan Tea, Jiukeng Maojian, Mogan Jianya, Tianzun Gongya, Huading Yunwu, Putuo Buddha Tea, Shuanglong Yinzhen, Jiande Bao Tea, Guyu Chun, Wuzhou Ju Yan, Qiandao Yuye, Wangfu Yinhao, Quangang Huibai, Linhai Panhao, Anji Bai Pian, Panlong Tea, Xiangguliang Baihao, Pan’an Yunfeng, Wanghai Tea, Songyang Yufeng, Taibai Dingya, Xiandu Quhao, Xueshui Yungreen, Shijian Tea, Lanxi Maofeng, Shuanglong Yinzhen, Donghai Longshe, Siming Shier Lei, Siming Longjian Tea.
• Black Tea: Yuehong, Jiugui Hongmei.
• Yellow Tea: Pingyang Huangtang.

Jiangxi

Jiangxi has a long history of tea production, with notable teas such as Jizhou Tea, Lushan Tea, Poyang Fuliang Tea, Jiexiao Tea, Xishan Heling Tea, and Xishan Bailu Tea from the Tang Dynasty. The province now has over 50 traditional and newly created high-quality teas, including green tea, black tea, and oolong tea.

Notable Teas:

• Green Tea: Lushan Yunwu, Doghead Brain, Wulv, Wuyuan Mingmei, Shangrao Baimei, Liangdu Yinzhen, Magu Tea, Shuangjing Green, Lingyan Jianfeng, Wengong Yinhao, Wanlong Songzhen, Xiugu Maojian, Jinggang Cui Lv, Quangang Longzhao, Ruizhou Huangbo Tea, Wuyuan Moju, Tiangong Tea, Luofeng Tea, Jing’an Feicui, Xiaobu Rock Tea, Qianling Yinhao, Dazhangshan Yunwu Tea.
• Black Tea: Ninghong Kungfu.
• Health Tea: Ninghong Weight Loss Tea.

Hunan

Hunan has a long history of tea production, with notable teas such as Jietan Tea, Luxiang Tea, Qujiang Thin Slices, Hengshan Tuanbing, Yueyang Hangao, and Yuezhou Huangling Mao dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Today, the province has over 60 traditional and newly created high-quality teas, including green tea, black tea, dark tea, yellow tea, and floral tea.

Notable Teas:

• Green Tea: Jietan Tea, Guzhang Maojian, Jianghua Maojian, Wugai Mountain Rice Tea, Gaoqiao Yin Feng, Anhua Songzhen, Dongting Chunya, Shimen Niudi Tea, Taojiang Bamboo Leaf, Donghu Yinhao, Shikou Yinya, Biyu Chun, Gudong Chunya, Shimen Yinfeng, Dongting Chun, Xiangbo Green, Linglong Tea, Shuangfeng Biyu, Taiqing Yunfeng, Baishi Maojian, Chenzhou Biyun, Huifeng Tea, Yuebei Da Bai Tea, Nanyue Yunwu Tea.
• Yellow Tea: Weishan Maojian, Junshan Yinzhen, Beigang Maojian.
• Black Tea: Black Brick Tea, Fu Brick Tea, Flower Brick Tea.

Hubei

Hubei has a long history of tea production, with notable teas such as Qimen Tuanhuang, Huanggang Tea, Ezhou Tuanhuang, Shizhou Fang Tea, Guizhou White Tea, Bijiang Tea, Mingyue Tea, Nanmu Tea, and Cactus Tea dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Today, the province has over 70 traditional and newly created high-quality teas, including green tea, black tea, dark tea, yellow tea, and floral tea.

Notable Teas:

• Green Tea: Cactus Tea, Enshi Yulu, Cheyunshan Maojian, Xiazhou Bifeng, Dengcun Yunwu, Jiangxia Bifang, Songzi Bijiang, Shennong Qifeng, Zhushan Yin Feng, Xixiang Biyuzan, Tiantai Cuifeng, Shuangqiao Maojian, Zhaojun Maojian, Qinglong Que She, Sanxia Baojian, Niangniangzhai Yunwu Tea, Changyang Mingfeng, Yijian Xianfeng Tea, Songfeng Tea, Guishan Yanlv, Jinshui Cuifeng, Shui Xian Rongou, Nuo Yuan Qingfeng, E Nan Jian Chun, Jinzhuyun Feng, Wudang Zhenjing, Wufeng Chunmei, Longzhong Tea, Tiantang Yunwu, Rongmei Tea, Wudong Green Peak, Xuan’en Gong Tea.
• Yellow Tea: Yuanan Luyuan.
• Black Tea: Yihong Kungfu.
• Pressed Tea: Qing Brick Tea, Mi Brick Tea.

Anhui

Anhui is one of China’s largest tea-producing provinces. It has a long history of famous teas, and among China’s top ten teas, one-third come from Anhui. The region around Tianzhu Mountain and Dabie Mountain has distinct seasonal changes and significant temperature variations between day and night. It is a renowned summer retreat and an important tea production, wholesale, and distribution center in Anhui.

Top Ten Famous Teas in Anhui:

• Huangshan Maofeng, Liu’an Guapian, Taiping Houkui, Qimen Black Tea, Tunxi Green Tea, Huoshan Huangya, Yuexi Cuilan, Jingxian Tiejian, Tianzhu Jianhao, Tongcheng Xiaohua.

Green Tea: Xiuning and Shexian Tunlu, Huangshan Maofeng and Huangshan Yinhao, Liu’an Guapian and Qishan Mingpian, Taiping Houkui, Xiuning Xiuning Songluo, Jingxian Yuzhu, Yao Xian Chuncui, Luan Yinhao, Wuyan Yinyuan, Jinlu Tea, Dazhai Maojian, Dazhai Yinhong.

• Black Tea: Qimen Black Tea, Anhui Black Tea, Chayan Tea.
• Yellow Tea: Huoshan Huangya, Xinyang Maojian.
• Dark Tea: Lianhua Liuqi Tea, Shoumei, Tuan Brick Tea, Menghai Chaye, Huaihua Tea.

North of Yangtze River (Jiangbei Tea Region)

This region includes Shandong, Gansu, Shaanxi, Henan and the northern parts of Jiangsu, Anhui and Hubei. Compare to other tea regions, this one has lower temperature and less precipitation, which is only suitable for small-leaf kind of tea trees to grow. Green tea is the principal variety turned out here. But in some mountainous regions where the local climate is agreeable to tea growing, several premium teas are produced, such as Liu An Melon Seed tea from Anhui and Xinyang Maojian from Henan.

Location: Located on the north bank of the Yangtze River’s middle and lower reaches, extending from the Yangtze River in the south to the Qinling Mountains and Huai River in the north, from the Daba Mountains in the west to the Shandong Peninsula in the east. This region includes Gan’nan, Shaanxi, northern Hubei, southern Henan, northern Anhui, northern Jiangsu, and southeastern Shandong.

Climate & Terrain: The average annual temperature is 15℃ to 16℃, with winter temperatures dropping to around -10℃. The annual precipitation is relatively low, between 700 mm and 1000 mm, and unevenly distributed, often causing drought for tea trees. The terrain is complex, with soils predominantly yellow-brown or brown, a transitional type between northern and southern China. Some mountainous areas have favorable microclimates, so the quality of tea can be on par with other regions.

Major Producing Provinces and Notable Teas:

• Shaanxi: With a long history of tea production dating back to the Tang Dynasty, notable teas include Ziyang Maojian, Ziyang Cuifeng, Shaanxi Fuzhu, Qinba Wuhmao, Ankang Yinfen, and others.
• Gansu: One of the northernmost tea-producing areas in China, located in the forest fringe zones of Wen, Wu, and Kang counties in southeastern Gansu, where tea is a daily necessity, especially in ethnic minority areas. The tea consumption pattern is shifting from alcohol to tea, reflecting a trend towards health and fashion.
• Shandong: Although tea production in Shandong is relatively recent, it has developed quickly since the 1970s and 1980s, with over ten notable teas, mainly green tea. Famous teas include Biyun, Rizhao Xueqing, Wulong Jian, and others. Shandong has a long tea-drinking history and a large consumption capacity, making it a major tea-consuming province.
• Henan: Tea production in Henan dates back to the Tang Dynasty, with a history of various notable teas. Over 20 traditional and new premium teas are produced, primarily green tea. Famous teas include Xinyang Maojian, Taibai Yinmao, and others.

Tea -producing Regions in China

• Anhui
• Fujian
• Guangdong
• Guangxi
• Guizhou
• Heilongjiang
• Henan
• Hubei
• Hunan
• Jiangsu
• Jiangxi
• Shangdong
• Sichuan
• Yunnan
• Zhejiang

Top 10 Most Beautiful Tea Gardens in China

Chinese tea gardens are must-visit sites for your China Tea Culture Travel. The tea plantations in China are generally in mountains and hills in south China. Some of the tea gradens provide interactive activities like tea-making, tea ceremony, and tea processing display. Top 10 most beautiful tea gardens in China are as follows:

• Yunnan Wuliang Mountain Tea Garden
• Yunnan Jingmai Tea Mountain
• Guangdong Yingde Tea Garden
• Anhui Yaoxi Tea Garden
• Chongqing Tea and Bamboo Garden
• Fujian Fuding Diantou Tea Garden
• Guangxi Liubao Tea Garden
• Zhejiang Qianzhang Yougu Tea Garden
• Longjing Tea Village in Hangzhou
• Zhejiang Jingshan Tea Garden

Read more about Top Tea Plantations in China

Chalu Raw Material Base/滇红茶岔路原料基地
The Chalu Tea Garden covers an area of 767.24 mu (about 51 hectares), with Fengqing large-leaf tea plants that are 30 years old. Situated at an altitude of 1,710 meters, it has an average annual temperature of 16.4°C and annual rainfall of 1,200 millimeters. The garden is located in the southwest of Mengyou Town, Fengqing County. With a good environment and convenient transportation, it is a model base for Dianhong Group’s standardized picking management. [View Details and VR Experience]

Xiaoqingshu Organic Tea Base/滇红茶小青树有机茶叶基地
The Xiaoqingshu Organic Tea Base is situated at an altitude of 1,270-1,500 meters, with a superior natural ecological environment and fertile soil. It has been certified as an organic tea garden. The total area of the garden is 1,053 mu (about 70 hectares), including 223 mu (about 15 hectares) of century-old tea gardens, 709 mu (about 47 hectares) of Fengqing large-leaf tea gardens over 30 years old, and 121 mu (about 8 hectares) of clonal tea gardens. Major varieties include Fengqing No. 3 and Qingshui No. 3. [View Details and VR Experience]

Guodazhai Ancient Tea Garden Raw Material Base/滇红茶郭大寨古茶园原料基地
The Guodazhai Ancient Tea Garden covers an area of 203 mu (about 14 hectares) with Fengqing large-leaf tea plants over a century old. Situated at an altitude of 2,000-2,100 meters, it has an average annual temperature of 16°C and annual rainfall of 1,450 millimeters. The garden is 93 kilometers from Fengqing County town and has yellow-red sandy loam soil. Tea trees here can reach over 2 meters in height, with the tallest up to 4.5 meters, and girths of 0.8-1.2 meters. This is a typical ancient tea forest in the Fengqing tea area, producing high-quality tea leaves ideal for Dianhong Group’s ancient tree Pu’er tea. [View Details]

Dasi Raw Material Base/滇红茶大寺原料基地
The Dasi Tea Garden covers an area of 600 mu (about 40 hectares), with all tea plants being Fengqing large-leaf varieties over 70 years old. It is located at an altitude of 2,300-2,500 meters, with an average annual temperature of 15°C and annual rainfall exceeding 1,200 millimeters. The garden is often shrouded in clouds and mist, adjacent to a national natural ecological protection forest, providing an excellent ecological environment. This is a quality raw material base for Dianhong Group’s fine Dianhong Congou tea. [View Details and VR Experience]

Zhengyi Raw Material Base/滇红茶正义原料基地
The Zhengyi Tea Garden is one of Dianhong Group’s Rainforest Alliance-certified tea garden bases, covering an area of 670.88 mu (about 45 hectares). Located at an altitude of 2,150-2,370 meters, it has an average annual temperature of 16°C and annual rainfall exceeding 1,000 millimeters. All tea plants here are Fengqing large-leaf varieties, providing high-quality raw material for Dianhong tea. The natural ecological environment is excellent, with no pollution in the surrounding area.

Dianhong Group’s Sri Lanka Raw Material Base/滇红集团斯里兰卡原料基地
On March 8, 2013, Dianhong Group and Sri Lanka’s Elpitiya Plantations PLC jointly established a joint venture company, “Elpitiya Dianhong Golden Bud Tea Co., Ltd.” The project commenced, and the Harrow Factory clean processing plant in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, officially began production. The 250-hectare tea garden in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, at an altitude of 1,200-1,500 meters, is surrounded by forests and rich in biodiversity, offering a stunning natural environment. The garden’s large diurnal temperature variation, abundant rainfall, and high humidity throughout the year ensure ideal conditions for tea growth.

1. Yiliang: Enjoying Scenic Views while Picking Wild Mushrooms

Yiliang Goujie Town Xiaoshao Wild Mushroom Ecotourism Village is located 56 kilometers east of Kunming city. From mid-June to mid-November each year, 300 to 500 species of wild mushrooms in the Xiaoshao ecological village forest gradually mature, including Morels, Porcini Mushrooms, Boletus edulis, Shiitake Mushrooms, and Grifola frondosa. Morels are particularly abundant, making this area the largest producer of Morels in the province.

During the day, visitors can pick mushrooms, enjoy wildflowers, admire waterfalls, and go fishing. At sunset, they can visit Yi ethnic minority courtyards in Xiaoshao to taste various wild mushrooms, especially the fragrant and tender Morels. Adventurous tourists can also try authentic Yi dishes like cured meat and native chickens. After mushroom picking, tourists can explore nearby scenic spots such as Taiyang Valley, Dadie Waterfall, Yilong Lake, and Shiban River, enjoying the beautiful countryside scenery.

2. Jinning – Good Mountains, Good Waters, Better Mushrooms

With the market season for wild mushrooms approaching, “Junjiezi” in Liu Street, Jinning County, has become lively again. The wild Morels, Porcini Mushrooms, and Shiitake Mushrooms produced here are highly favored by consumers for their green and environmentally friendly qualities.

Local residents report that from late May to the end of September, Jinning’s Junjiezi market holds two daily sessions. Liu Street is abundant in over 20 types of high-quality wild mushrooms such as Morels, Shiitake Mushrooms, Matsutake Mushrooms, and Porcini Mushrooms. Currently, wild mushrooms have started to enter the market, with several dozen kilograms sold daily. In about a week, wild mushrooms from various towns will be widely available, with Liu Street alone producing around 150 tons annually and a daily trading volume of over 5 tons. This makes it a top destination for mushroom enthusiasts!

Travel Route: Drive on the Kunyu Expressway to Niulian Toll Station, then travel approximately 16 kilometers along the “Shang (Suan) – Liu (Jie)” road to reach “Junjiezi” in Liu Street.

3. Shilin: Fresh Mushrooms Begin to Grow in Changhu

Recently, delicious mushrooms can be tasted on the dining tables of various restaurants in Shilin County. However, the scarcity and high prices of mushrooms have deterred many residents. Currently, most mushrooms in Shilin County restaurants are purchased from other regions. Local residents who want to eat mushrooms have to buy them from the market, where they are quite expensive.

Due to concerns over poisonous mushrooms and limited mushroom varieties, consumers are advised to be cautious when purchasing.

Travel Route: Kunshi Expressway – Jiushi A Tourism Special Line – Changhu

4. Songming: New Mushroom Varieties Cultivated Under the Forest

Walking through the villages of Songming County, one can see villagers returning with baskets full of wild mushrooms. Last year, Songming successfully experimented with 5 mu of Elm Yellow Mushroom, and this year, it has added three new varieties: Flower Mushroom, Shiitake Mushroom, and Bipolar Mushroom, all of which are currently in the experimental stage. Mushroom enthusiasts should consider trying these new varieties!

5. Fumin: Versatile Ways to Enjoy Pickled Shiitake Mushrooms

Yunnan’s Shiitake Mushrooms are best from Fumin, Xundian, Wuding, and Luoping counties. They are characterized by their plumpness, whiteness, freshness, and sweet fragrance, with peak production from June to September. Fumin has a wide variety of Shiitake Mushrooms, typically categorized by color into green, white, and yellow Shiitake Mushrooms. The elegant and tender green Shiitake Mushroom is considered the best. Green and white Shiitake Mushrooms are abundant from June to July, while yellow Shiitake Mushrooms appear slightly later. Harvesting Shiitake Mushrooms requires sharp eyes, keen sense of smell, and knowledge of weather and terrain.

From June to September, Shiitake Mushrooms can be found in every rural home in Fumin. Fumin County’s pickled Shiitake Mushrooms are particularly famous for their golden or brownish-yellow color, delicate texture, rich aroma, softness, and refreshing taste. They are used in various dishes such as “Fire-Clamped Shiitake Mushrooms,” “Sliced ​​Shiitake Mushrooms,” “Shredded Shiitake Mushrooms,” and “Shiitake Mushroom Soup,” and are also used as stuffing for pasta, each with its unique flavor.

6. Xundian: Chicken Head Mushrooms Flood the Market in August

When it comes to wild mushrooms in Xundian, Chicken Head Mushroom is the most famous. Starting from Kunming, drive 90 kilometers along the Kunqu Expressway, exit Xundian and continue for 23 kilometers to reach Xundian Hekou Town, famous for its Chicken Head Mushroom. During the mushroom season, the faint scent of mushrooms permeates the air along the winding mountain roads.

Xundian produces over a dozen varieties of wild mushrooms annually, including Chicken Head Mushroom, Porcini Mushroom, Shiitake Mushroom, and Morel. During the mushroom picking season, farmers pick mushrooms in the morning and sell them at the farmers’ market at noon, ensuring freshness. With sufficient rainfall this year, mushrooms are plentiful as the rainy season arrives. Chicken Head Mushrooms will be widely available in August. Mushroom enthusiasts can purchase and enjoy them in Xundian or gather with friends and family to pick them themselves.

7. Luquan: Wild Mushrooms Covering Mountains and Valleys

Recent rainfall has caused various wild mushrooms to emerge in Luquan. Along the Kunluo Highway near Luquan, local residents spread freshly picked wild mushrooms on green leaves and wait for passersby to purchase them.

Luquan’s unique natural environment has endowed it with rich resources of wild edible mushrooms, earning it the title of “Mushroom Township.” In the coming months, Luquan’s restaurants, homestays, and hotels will offer a variety of delicious wild mushroom dishes, including flavorful Shiitake Mushroom Soup and Porcini Mushroom Soup, and stir-fried Morels and Porcini Mushrooms with red peppers, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience.

Residents seeking to purchase wild mushrooms to take home can buy them from local residents along the Kunluo Highway near Luquan County.

8. Dali: Scent of Mushrooms Everywhere

In Xiangyun, locally produced Zaogu Mushrooms are typically cooked with garlic and green peppers, boiled until almost dry, and then served.

In Yangbi, white chickens are common, while Yongping chickens are black. Black chickens are prepared in the same way as white chickens. However, white chickens are fresher, and black chickens have a stronger aroma. The local cold mushrooms unique to Jizushan in Bijie County are mainly used for stewing chicken. Because cold mushrooms are highly prized, they are typically dried and preserved after being picked during the mushroom harvesting season and can be used for chicken stew throughout the year.

Jianchuan has a variety of cilantro mushrooms that locals slice and eat raw as a condiment, providing a unique flavor. Jianchuan residents sometimes use Matsutake Mushrooms for cold mixing, often slicing and grilling fresh Matsutake Mushrooms. They also use fresh Matsutake Mushrooms to stir-fry with garlic.

About two to three kilometers from the county town of Heqing, there is a farmhouse specializing in wild mushroom hot pot. The wild mushroom hot pot from this farm is prepared by mixing 20 to 40 kinds of wild mushrooms in a special preparation method, resulting in a delicious flavor.

The famous wild mushroom specialty store “Junwang Garden” in Xiangyun specializes in wild mushroom hot pot, typically featuring more than 10 kinds of mushrooms. When fresh mushrooms are not available, frozen, pickled, and dried mushrooms can be enjoyed year-round.

9. Chuxiong: Mushroom Kingdom Lives Up to Its Reputation

Zixi Mountain: Here, you can pick wild mushrooms such as Morchella, Chicken, and Shiitake Mushrooms. Due to the large number of tourists, you may need to walk a little further if you want to pick mushrooms. Driving up the mountain along the winding mountain road, you can smell the faint aroma of mushrooms in the air.

In the vicinity of the Kesheng River, which is about two to three kilometers from the town of Heqing County, many local residents sell freshly picked wild mushrooms. Due to the natural environment in which they grow, Luquan has rich resources of wild edible mushrooms, making it a famous “mushroom town.” Whether in Luquan’s large and small restaurants, homestays, or hotels, you can enjoy a variety of delicious wild mushrooms, such as Shiitake, mushroom soup, red chili, and green chili.

If you want to purchase wild mushrooms to take home, you can buy them from local residents along the Kunluo Highway near Luquan County.

10. Qujing: “Winter Eats Fuzi, Summer Eats Mushroom”

In Qujing, eating wild mushrooms is a tradition in Malong County. Malong’s wild mushrooms are well-known. In Malong, there are many varieties of wild mushrooms, including Chicken Head, Fragrant Fungi, Wood Ear, Beef Liver, Poppy Mushrooms, Pine Hair Mushrooms, Frozen Mushrooms, Buckwheat Mushrooms, Yellow Parasol Mushrooms, and Chicken Fat Mushrooms.
Source from:
https://new.qq.com/rain/a/20200601A0I8XO00
https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s?__biz=MzA3MTg1NjMwNg==&mid=2650892861&idx=4&sn=b89c84d9d7ba2076e1e6076bf316be08&chksm=84d2f3e0b3a57af6c6d332e0ebec0a34ef94ce82d6a37623cee8ed3fb8d19c233a1ef051a373&scene=27

Place 1:Shuanglong Town of Panlong District, Kunming (昆明盘龙区双龙镇)

Distance: Located 30 kilometers from Kunming city center, driving time is approximately 36 minutes.

Route: Kunming City → Hangrui Expressway / East Ring Expressway → Shuanglong Street

Abundant Mushrooms: Boletus edulis

Shuanglong is a township in Panlong District, Kunming City. Here, the forest coverage rate is 72.36%. With ample sunshine and abundant rainfall, It is a paradise for wild mushrooms. There are many types of mushrooms in the mountains of Shuanglong Street. Among them, boletus edulis is the most abundant. Enthusiasts of boletus edulis. Must not miss this treasure trove. In the various farmhouses and rural guesthouses in Shuanglong, You can taste a variety of delicious wild mushroom feasts. The mushrooms you pick can also be processed with the help of the guesthouses.

Place 2:Fumin County, Kunming (昆明市富民县)

Distance: Located 39 kilometers from Kunming city center, driving time is approximately 40 minutes.

Route: Kunming City → Beijing-Kunming Expressway → Fumin

Abundant Mushrooms: Strobilomyces floccopus

When it comes to mushrooms in Fumin,One cannot miss mentioning the mushroom king – Strobilomyces floccopus. In the favorable environment, Fumin has become renowned as the “Strobilomyces floccopus Township”. There are three types of Strobilomyces floccopus: green, white, and yellow.

If one can find all three types of Strobilomyces floccopus on a mountain trip, That would truly be a stroke of luck. Those who have picked mushrooms know. That Strobilomyces floccopus always grows in specific spots.

Experienced mushroom pickers, More or less know these spots. Which is their secret to consistently finding Strobilomyces floccopus. The salted Strobilomyces floccopus produced in Fumin is very famous. Its color ranges from golden yellow to brownish yellow. With a delicate texture, rich fragrance, Soft and refreshing taste, and a lingering aftertaste.

 

Mushrooms are a type of fungi.
Yunnan is home to over 250 species of wild edible mushrooms.
This accounts for more than half of the world’s edible mushrooms and two-thirds of those found in China.
Among these, there are over 10 species that can easily cause poisoning if consumed by humans.
While enjoying the deliciousness of wild mushrooms, do you know how to distinguish between toxic and non-toxic ones?
What are some common edible wild mushrooms?
And what are some common toxic wild mushrooms?

Source from:
https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s?__biz=MzUzMzM0MzU0Ng==&mid=2247483715&idx=1&sn=9047edc620e7a194ebb6db17a8aa652a&chksm=faa43d16cdd3b400f83e52f55c516740dd55ff9e4de583836f2114f8c6bbc77e2fb79bab717f&scene=27

https://m.thepaper.cn/baijiahao_23495230

https://m.thepaper.cn/baijiahao_19032336

Yunnan, with its unique climate conditions and complex topography, has nurtured various types of forests, diverse soil types, and abundant species, becoming a treasure trove of biodiversity and a home to a wide variety of wild mushrooms. It has cultivated the richest wild edible mushroom resources in the world, with a wide range of species, extensive distribution, and large yields, renowned worldwide.

Wild mushrooms in Yunnan, born and thriving in the mountains and forests, are natural green foods. They are rich in vitamins, high-quality proteins, and other beneficial components for the human body, providing abundant nutrition. They possess unique flavors, and some edible mushrooms even have pharmacological effects in treating cancer and various diseases. Here is a comprehensive list of the most commonly consumed 35 wild mushrooms in Yunnan.

Commonly Consumed 35 Wild Mushrooms

1、Ant fungus (蚂蚁孤堆菌)
Named for growing on ant mounds, it emerges after the spring rain at the end of each year. It is often harvested just as it emerges from the ground. It primarily feeds on the roots of fungi. It has a delicious taste, rich nutrition, and can be boiled in clear soup, boiled with eggs, or stir-fried.

2、Torch mushroom (火把鸡纵)

Named because it emerges during the Torch Festival (the 24th day of the sixth lunar month), the Torch mushroom comes out in clusters once it appears. It is abundant in quantity and has a delicious taste. It can be cooked in soup, stir-fried, and is commonly deep-fried. When made into oil, it can be preserved and enjoyed throughout the year. Oil-fried Torch mushrooms from Ganhe Village in Damogu Town are famous nationwide.

3、Yellow-skinned Jizong mushroom (黄皮鸡纵)

This variety typically appears later, usually from October to December. It has large, thick-fleshed yellow caps, and just one cap can make a large bowl of soup. With a delicious flavor, it can be cooked using the same methods as mentioned before.

4、Little Jizong mushroom (小鸡纵)

These mushrooms appear throughout the rainy season, growing in clusters with abundant quantities. They have small caps and are difficult to pick and clean. However, they have a delicious and tender flavor, and can be cooked using the same methods as mentioned before.

5、 Jizong mushroom flower (鸡纵花)

Even smaller than the little Jizong mushroom, these mushrooms grow in clusters with a high quantity. They have tiny caps and are difficult to pick and clean. However, they have a delicious and tender flavor, and can be cooked using the same methods as mentioned before.

6、 Water chicken mushroom (水鸡纵)

Resembling chicken mushrooms in shape, water chicken mushrooms have a similar taste but are not as sweet as chicken mushrooms; they are slightly milder. They can be cooked using the same methods as chicken mushrooms.

7、Boletus Edulis (大红菌)

The king bolete, also known as porcini, is a valuable wild edible fungus. Rich in amino acids, various vitamins, and other essential nutrients for the human body, it has calming and blood-enriching effects, making it particularly suitable for consumption by pregnant women and those with anemia. Its taste is sweeter, more delicious, and smoother compared to other mushroom species. The ideal specimen of king bolete is characterized by large caps and thick stems, with a deep red color being preferable. It can be cooked in various ways, including boiling in clear soup, stewing with chicken, frying, or braising. It’s crucial to ensure thorough cooking, especially when frying, by braising it. Small specimens with thin stems and a bitter or spicy taste are toxic and should not be consumed.

8、奶浆菌 (Lactarius)

Named for its milky white latex that oozes when cut. There are two main types: coarse-folded lactarius and fine-folded lactarius. This is also a relatively safe type of mushroom that can be eaten raw. It can be prepared in various ways, including boiling, frying, deep-frying, and pickling. It has a sweet and savory taste with a rich aroma, offering a unique flavor profile.

9、Russula virescens (青头菌)

Named for its greenish color, often with flecks of other colors, making it quite attractive. It has a mild and tender flavor with abundant nutrients. There are various ways to prepare it, including boiling, stir-frying, sautéing, and deep-frying.

10、Lactarius deliciosus (米汤菌)

With its light purple color, the taste of the Lactarius deliciosus is mild and smooth, offering rich nutrition. It can be prepared in various ways, including boiling, stewing, stir-frying, and deep-frying.

11、Yellow Boletus Mushroom (黄牛肝菌)

The Yellow Boletus Mushroom, a rare species, boasts a delicious taste and a unique aroma. Rich in protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, as well as minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and iron, it offers abundant nutrition and is a rare delicacy. It can be prepared in various ways, including stir-frying, boiling, and deep-frying.

12、Black Boletus Mushroom (黑牛肝菌)
The Black Boletus Mushroom, known for its exquisite taste, is one of the most flavorful varieties of boletus mushrooms. It is rich in nutrients, containing abundant protein and 18 amino acids. It is believed to have various health benefits, including anticancer, antitussive, and tonic effects. Additionally, it is considered a beneficial mushroom for weight loss and is believed to be effective against conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and hyperlipidemia.

12-1、White Boletus Mushroom (白牛肝菌)
Among the various types of boletus mushrooms, the White Boletus Mushroom stands out for its appealing appearance. It features a brownish cap and a white stem adorned with a network-like pattern. Due to its relatively mild flavor compared to other varieties of boletus mushrooms, it is often more affordable in price. It is non-toxic and safe for consumption.

13、Green-stained Bolete (Touch of Green)/见手青（一抹绿）
Named for the appearance of blue-green coloration when the mushroom’s body is scratched, similar to boletus mushrooms, the Green-stained Bolete boasts a delicious and smooth flavor, rich in nutrients. It can be prepared in various ways, including boiling, frying, and deep-frying, but it’s crucial to ensure it is thoroughly cooked.

14、Sheep Liver Mushroom (羊肝菌)
Available in various shades of white, yellow, and purple, the Sheep Liver Mushroom has a flavor slightly inferior to that of boletus mushrooms and Green-stained Boletes. However, it is still rich in nutrients and can be prepared in the same ways as boletus mushrooms.

15、Yellow Leccinum (黄赖头)

Named for its yellow color and its cap’s rough surface, Yellow Leccinum is considered one of the most delicious mushrooms of its kind, boasting a smooth, fresh, and tasty flavor. It can be prepared in various ways, including frying and boiling.

16、Horse Dung Fungus (Puffball Mushroom) (马屁泡（马勃菌)
Belonging to the group of subterranean fungi, resembling potatoes, there are various types of Horse Dung Fungus, including White Puffball, Black Puffball, Glutinous Puffball, and Rice Puffball, among others. It can be prepared in numerous ways, such as stir-frying with leeks or pickled vegetables, boiling into soup, or cold tossing after boiling. When roasted over charcoal, it develops a special, rich aroma, making it taste delicious and unique.

17、Brush Mushroom (刷把菌)
Named for its resemblance to a brush, also known as Coral Mushroom, this fungus has an elegant appearance with beautiful colors. Its taste is fresh, sweet, and refreshing, containing 6 essential amino acids for the human body, and it also has medicinal properties. There are three main color variations: white, red, and yellow. Among them, the best is the white Brush Mushroom that hasn’t fully expanded, followed by those that have fully expanded but not too large. It is commonly prepared by stir-frying or boiling.

18、Wild Matsutake Mushroom (野生香菌)
Growing on dead trees in natural forests, the Wild Matsutake Mushroom emerges with the first spring rains and continues until the end of spring. Compared to cultivated matsutake mushrooms, they are smaller but incredibly aromatic, with a rich nutritional profile. They can be prepared in various ways and offer excellent health benefits.

19、White Ginseng Mushroom (白参菌)
White Ginseng Mushroom grows on dead trees in natural forests. They are small and challenging to pick, but they have a delicious, sweet, and aromatic taste and are rich in nutrients. They can be prepared in various ways, including stewing with eggs, boiling, frying, and serving in salads.

20、Thelephora ganbajun, or “ganba fungus” (干巴菌)
Thelephora ganbajun, or “ganba fungus” (干巴菌), is said to contain antioxidant substances, believed to have anti-aging effects. Aside from its purported health benefits, the ganba fungus itself boasts a delicious taste and a unique strong aroma that leaves people craving for more. When cooked with other ingredients, it enhances freshness and flavor. There are various ways to prepare ganba fungus, with common methods including stir-frying and deep-frying.

Thelephora ganbajun, or “ganba fungus,” 干巴菌 / 乾巴菌, is a species of coral fungus in the family Thelephoraceae. It was described as new to science in 1987 by Chinese mycologist Mu Zang. It is found in Yunnan, where it grows on Pinus yunnanensis and Pinus kesiya var. langbianensis.

21、The chicken buttock fungus (鸡屁股菌)
The chicken buttock fungus (鸡屁股菌) is named for its resemblance to a chicken buttock. It has a delicious and savory taste with a special freshness and is rich in nutrients. It can be cooked in various ways, including boiling and stir-frying.

22、Cantharellus cibarius (鸡油菌)

Cantharellus cibarius is a species of golden chanterelle mushroom in the genus Cantharellus. It is also known as girolle. Despite its characteristic features, it can resemble at least one poisonous species. Collected later in the year in its European distribution, it is a commonly consumed and choice edible species.

Cantharellus cibarius (鸡油菌) has been highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine. According to records, it is described as having a cold nature and a sweet taste, beneficial for clearing the lungs and improving vision, nourishing the stomach and intestines, clearing heat and promoting diuresis, and invigorating Qi and soothing the middle. Regular consumption may improve conditions such as rough and dry skin and night blindness caused by vitamin A deficiency. Cantharellus cibarius are commonly cooked by stir-frying or boiling.

23、The trumpet mushroom or Craterellus cornucopioides (喇叭菌)
Craterellus cornucopioides, or horn of plenty, is an edible mushroom found in North America and Eurasia. It is also known as the black chanterelle, black trumpet, trompette de la mort, trompeta de la mort or trumpet of the dead.

The trumpet mushroom (喇叭菌) is named for its trumpet-like shape. It comes in shades of orange or earthy yellow. The flesh of the trumpet mushroom is slightly dry with low moisture content, offering a delicate yet crisp texture and a delicious taste. It is said to contain six essential amino acids for the human body. Common cooking methods include stir-frying, pan-frying, deep-frying, boiling, and hotpot.

24、The bitter mushroom (辣菌)
The bitter mushroom (辣菌) is named for the bitter and spicy juice it releases. It is mostly white and is also known as white bitter mushroom. There are coarse-ridged and fine-ridged varieties, with the fine-ridged type being preferred. If you prefer to reduce the bitterness, you can crush and wash the raw bitter mushrooms, which will lessen the bitterness. However, for those who enjoy the bitter taste, there’s no need for special treatment. Bitter mushrooms are often stir-fried or boiled with sour bamboo shoots and small chili peppers. They can also be cooked over charcoal fire until done, ground, and eaten. Additionally, they can be pickled to make sour vegetables, offering a uniquely fragrant and delicious flavor that makes one’s mouth water at the mere thought.

25、Chestnut tree mushroom (麻栗窝)
The Chestnut tree mushroom (麻栗窝) is named because it often grows under chestnut trees in clusters. These mushrooms are small and clustered together, with a delicious taste and rich nutrients. They are commonly used to make soup or stir-fried dishes.

26、The chicken feather fungus (麻母鸡菌)
The chicken feather fungus, named for its resemblance to the gray feathers of a hen. It has large caps and a delicious taste, similar to chicken mushrooms but without their sweetness. It’s commonly used for stir-frying and boiling.

27、Wild wood ear mushrooms (野生木耳)
Wild wood ear mushrooms grow naturally on dead trees in the forest. There are many types of wood ear mushrooms, including black, white, and red varieties, as well as crunchy and rough-skinned types. They have a delicious taste and are rich in nutrients. They can be prepared in the same way as regular wood ear mushrooms.

28、Wild lingzhi mushrooms (野生灵芝)
Wild lingzhi mushrooms grow naturally in the forest, and they are considered to be more eco-friendly compared to cultivated ones. They can be prepared in the same way as regular lingzhi mushrooms.

29、Pine mushrooms (松树菌)
Pine mushrooms are a type of wild matsutake mushroom. They are found only in pine forests and usually appear from August to mid-December each year. They come in two colors, dark green and light yellow, and are among the latest mushrooms to emerge. Similar in taste to chicken mushroom, they have their own unique aroma and are rich in nutrients. Pine mushrooms are a type of mushroom that naturally grows under pine trees, ranging in color from yellow-brown with a hint of blue-green to copper-purple. Typically appearing after the Double Ninth Festival each year, they grow in an umbrella shape, similar in size to shiitake mushrooms, and are a pollution-free wild edible mushroom loved by many consumers for their delicious taste. They are commonly prepared by stewing or stir-frying. The brown-red or dark green pine mushrooms are considered premium varieties among mushrooms.

30、Yunzhi Mushroom (云芝)
Yunzhi, a type of Lingzhi mushroom, is often boiled in water and consumed as tea. It has a bitter yet fragrant taste and is primarily used for medicinal and health purposes. It is known for its efficacy in clearing heat, detoxifying, reducing inflammation, fighting cancer, and protecting the liver.

31、Ba Dan Chai Mushrooms (八担柴)
Ba Dan Chai, named for its tough texture requiring eight loads of firewood to cook until soft, is a type of mushroom. Despite its resilient texture, it boasts an incredibly delicious flavor and a tempting aroma that’s hard to resist. It is typically cooked for an extended period before it becomes palatable.

32、Stropharia aeruginosa (铜绿菌)
The Copper Green Mushroom, named as Stropharia aeruginosa grows in pine or coniferous forests, broad-leaved forests, or mixed forests. They typically appear in pairs, and if one is found in the deep forest, another can usually be found within a meter’s distance. They have a protective color similar to pine needles, making them hard to spot. Despite this, they boast a delicious flavor and are rich in nutrients, with potential anticancer and health benefits. They are commonly cooked by frying or boiling.

33、Bamboo Fungus or Phallus indusiatus (竹荪)
Bamboo Fungus, also known as Bamboo Pith(竹参), or Phallus indusiatus, grows in damp and hot bamboo forests. Its shape resembles a young girl wearing a gown, which is quite beautiful. It is said that Bamboo Fungus contains 16 essential amino acids and various minerals needed by the human body, with functions such as aiding digestion and weight loss. It has a delicious taste and a unique flavor, often cooked by boiling, stewing with chicken, or serving cold in salads.

Phallus indusiatus, commonly called the basket stinkhorn, bamboo mushrooms, bamboo pith, long net stinkhorn, crinoline stinkhorn, bridal veil, or veiled lady, is a fungus in the family Phallaceae, or stinkhorns.

34、Matsutake (松茸)
Matsutake, Tricholoma matsutake (松口蘑), is a species of choice edible mycorrhizal mushroom that grows in Eurasia and North America. It is prized in Japanese cuisine for its distinct spicy-aromatic odor. Matsutake, also known as pine mushroom, is a highly prized mushroom species. It is usually sold by the piece, with prices reaching thousands of yuan per kilogram, and the majority are exported to Japan. It has been featured on the Chinese food documentary “A Bite of China,” where they introduced a dish called “Butter-fried Matsutake.”

35、Truffles (松露)
Truffles grow underground as a type of stem tuber fungus attached to the roots of pine trees. They contain a high amount of moisture and trace mineral elements such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and fluoride. Unlike typical mushrooms, truffles are not soft and juicy but rather have a firm texture. They prefer alkaline soil, and high-quality truffles are mainly produced in limestone regions, such as Alba in Italy, Périgord in France, and Yunnan in China, all of which are located in limestone areas.

French cuisine is one of the world’s three most recognized cuisines and holds a prominent position in Western gastronomy. Among the famous ingredients in French cuisine, foie gras, truffles, and caviar are particularly renowned.

Inclusion
There are actually some edible fungi not mentioned, such as the delicious and dark-colored small black trumpet mushroom, the fire carbon mushroom, half a mushroom, winter mushroom, eagle mushroom, broad pine mushroom, mushroom pouch, buckwheat mushroom, slippery belly mushroom, lime mushroom, Jiangmazhang mushroom, North Wind mushroom, etc. We collectively refer to them as miscellaneous mushrooms. When we were young, we used to pick a basket of miscellaneous mushrooms and stew them into a pot of soup. That kind of deliciousness is something all Yunnan people understand!

In fact, there are many local specialty mushroom species in various places in Yunnan that can be eaten. Due to their rarity, in our Ganhe Village, there is a place called Guanshan where there is a wide variety of mushrooms. Some mushrooms are not even named by our local people. Some timid people are afraid of poisoning and dare not eat them, so they throw them away. But some people say that Guanshan in our village is a strange mountain, and all the mushrooms on it are edible.

As the world’s largest tobacco manufacturer, China produces more than two million metric tons of tobacco each year. The majority of China’s tobacco production serves its massive domestic market. In 2020, nearly one out of three smokers in the world were Chinese. Chinese smokers consume more than two trillion cigarettes yearly, more than Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Americas combined. Tobacco use has been a pressing issue that threatens public health. In 2019, around 35 percent of male death in China was related to tobacco use, the highest in the world. The government has rolled out various policies to strengthen tobacco control for over a decade. However, China faces significant challenges in reducing tobacco use, as it has been incorporated into cultural practices and generates considerable fiscal revenue for the country.

Tobacco cultivation and manufacturing in China
Tobacco was first introduced in China in the late 16th century by merchants who visited Southeast Asia. Smoking tobacco quickly spread throughout all socioeconomic levels. The thriving market prompted the growth of numerous small family tobacco farms in China during the ensuing centuries and laid solid ground for the modern tobacco manufacturing industry. Today, tobacco is widely cultivated in 24 provinces in China, but Yunnan remains the leading supplying region of tobacco leaves for its favorable climate and soil.

China’s tobacco manufacturing and retail industry are under the control of the governmental monopoly, the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration. Also, the state-owned tobacco manufacturer, China National Tobacco Corporation, is the world’s largest cigarette producer and supplies more than 40 percent of global cigarettes. The tobacco industry is a cornerstone of China’s tax revenue and contributes to between six to ten percent of China’s financial income each year.

Some of the top tobacco and cigarette companies in China include:

1. China National Tobacco Corporation (中国烟草总公司): As the largest tobacco company in China, it dominates the country’s tobacco industry and is one of the largest tobacco companies in the world.
2. Hongyunhonghe Tobacco (红云红河): This is a major tobacco company based in Yunnan Province, known for producing premium tobacco products.
3. Yuxi Hongta Group (玉溪红塔集团): Another prominent tobacco company based in Yunnan Province, it produces a wide range of cigarette brands, including the famous “Hongtashan” brand.
4. Shanghai Tobacco Group Co., Ltd. (上海烟草集团有限责任公司): Based in Shanghai, this company is one of the largest cigarette manufacturers in China, producing various brands for domestic and international markets.
5. Guangdong Tobacco Company (广东省烟草公司): Located in Guangdong Province, this company is a key player in the tobacco industry, producing popular cigarette brands such as “Double Happiness.”
6. Hubei Tobacco Corporation (湖北省烟草公司): Headquartered in Hubei Province, this company is known for its high-quality tobacco products and has a significant presence in the domestic market.
7. Jiangsu Tobacco Industry Company (江苏省烟草工业公司): Based in Jiangsu Province, this company is a major producer of cigarettes and tobacco products, serving both domestic and international markets.
8. Henan Tobacco Industry Co., Ltd. (河南省烟草工业有限责任公司): Located in Henan Province, this company is one of the leading tobacco manufacturers in China, producing a wide range of cigarette brands.
9. Sichuan Tobacco Industry Co., Ltd. (四川省烟草工业有限责任公司): Based in Sichuan Province, this company is known for its diverse portfolio of cigarette brands and tobacco products.
10. China Tobacco Hunan Industrial Co., Ltd. (中国烟草湖南工业有限责任公司): Headquartered in Hunan Province, this company is a major player in the tobacco industry, producing popular cigarette brands for the domestic market.

These companies represent some of the largest and most influential players in the Chinese tobacco and cigarette market.