Planning an RV camping trip to Yunnan province, China, involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

1. Research and Itinerary Planning:
   • Destination Selection: Choose specific places in Yunnan you want to visit. Consider scenic spots like Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La, or natural parks such as Yuanyang Rice Terraces or Tiger Leaping Gorge.
   • Route Planning: Plan your route carefully, considering road conditions, distances between stops, and places to refuel and restock supplies.
   • Campsites: Identify RV-friendly campsites or places where you can park overnight. Research local regulations regarding camping and parking.
2. Vehicle and Equipment Preparation:
   • RV Selection: Choose a suitable RV for your trip, considering the number of travelers and amenities required.
   • Maintenance: Ensure your RV is in good condition. Service it before the trip to avoid breakdowns.
   • Supplies: Stock up on essentials such as food, water, cooking equipment, bedding, toiletries, and first aid kits.
3. Legal and Practical Considerations:
   • Driving License and Permits: Check if your driver’s license is valid in China. Obtain necessary permits for driving and camping in Yunnan.
   • Insurance: Ensure your RV insurance covers international travel and meets Chinese requirements.
   • Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local driving laws and regulations in China, including speed limits, parking rules, and waste disposal.
4. Communication and Connectivity:
   • Language: Learn basic Mandarin phrases or have a translation app handy.
   • Navigation: Use GPS or navigation apps that work in China. Download offline maps in case of limited internet access.
   • Communication: Carry a local SIM card or ensure your international plan covers China for communication needs.
5. Safety and Security:
   • Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, embassies, and roadside assistance.
   • Safety Precautions: Follow safety guidelines for camping and driving. Be aware of wildlife and natural hazards in remote areas.
6. Cultural and Environmental Respect:
   • Respect Local Culture: Observe local customs and traditions. Respect sacred sites and local communities.
   • Environmental Responsibility: Practice Leave No Trace principles. Dispose of waste responsibly and minimize your impact on the environment.
7. Flexibility and Enjoyment:
   • Flexibility: Be prepared for unexpected changes in weather or road conditions. Have alternative plans in case of itinerary adjustments.
   • Enjoyment: Embrace the adventure of RV camping in Yunnan. Explore local cuisine, visit attractions, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

By following these steps, you can effectively plan and enjoy an RV camping trip to Yunnan province, China, with Yaso Trip Company or independently.

Planning an RV camping trip to China involves several steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan:

1. Research and Choose Your Route:
   • Destination Selection: Decide which parts of China you want to explore. Consider scenic routes, national parks, historical sites, and cultural landmarks.
   • Road Conditions: Research the road conditions and accessibility of your chosen route for RVs. Some areas may have narrow roads or restrictions on large vehicles.
2. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses:
   • Driving Permit: Foreigners driving in China need a temporary driving permit. Contact the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.
   • Vehicle Permits: Check if there are specific permits required for traveling in certain regions or national parks with an RV.
3. Choose and Rent an RV:
   • RV Type: Select an RV suitable for your needs (e.g., motorhome, camper van) and the size of your group.
   • Rental Services: Research RV rental companies in China. Ensure they provide English support and are equipped for foreign travelers.
4. Plan Your Itinerary:
   • Daily Stops: Plan your daily stops and overnight stays. Research campgrounds, RV parks, or suitable places to park overnight.
   • Attractions: Include visits to attractions along your route. Check opening hours and any entry requirements.
5. Pack Essentials:
   • Documents: Carry your passport, driving permit, vehicle registration, insurance documents, and any required permits.
   • Supplies: Pack sufficient food, water, and essentials like toiletries, bedding, and cooking utensils. Consider local preferences for cuisine and dietary needs.
6. Understand Local Rules and Regulations:
   • Driving Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Chinese traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits, parking rules, and driving etiquette.
   • Camping Etiquette: Respect local customs and regulations at campgrounds or when parking overnight. Follow waste disposal guidelines and be mindful of noise levels.
7. Safety and Communication:
   • Emergency Contacts: Have local emergency numbers and contacts for roadside assistance or RV rental company.
   • Communication: Ensure you have a reliable means of communication, such as a local SIM card for your phone or portable Wi-Fi hotspot.
8. Budgeting:
   • Cost Estimation: Calculate expenses for fuel, RV rental, campground fees, meals, and any additional activities.
   • Currency: Familiarize yourself with the local currency and payment methods accepted in different regions.
9. Weather Considerations:
   • Seasonal Variations: Check the weather conditions and seasonal variations in the regions you plan to visit. Prepare accordingly with appropriate clothing and gear.
10. Flexibility and Contingency Plans:
    • Itinerary Adjustments: Be flexible with your itinerary in case of unexpected events or changes in road conditions.
    • Backup Plans: Have alternative routes or destinations in mind in case your original plans need adjustment.

By following these steps and thorough planning, you can make the most of your RV camping trip in China, exploring its diverse landscapes and cultural treasures at your own pace.

If you are looking for itinerary inspiration through Yaoso Trip, then check this article. But if you want to know whether you should take your family in an RV or just take the car, this article is for you. Below I’ve covered 19 pros and cons I learned on our first RV trip so you can be better prepared when you embark on your own trip in a home on wheels.

But before we get started, let’s take a walkthrough our RV…

1. Unpack once
Probably my biggest benefit is that you only have to unpack once. It’s just like being on a cruise ship where you unpack once and still get to visit multiple destinations, except you’re on land. Once you unpack that very first day and have everything in place, you can hit the open road and never worry about packing suitcases again.

2. You can cook
There are multiple benefits to having a kitchen. One, it’s cheaper. Grocery shopping is much more cost effective than eating at restaurant. Two, it’s healthier. You can control what’s going in your food and how much you are eating. Temptation is weaker when you have only options in the fridge that you want. Three, you don’t have to wait. When my kids are hungry they are hungry now. We had stopped briefly in Page, Arizona while a small issue in the RV was being repaired and my kids complained of hunger. So we cooked a healthy meal right then and there. Presto!

A campground BBQ? Great idea! Don’t worry, no sausages were harmed in this photo.

3. Sleep anywhere
As you drive down long dusty roads, there are times you just want to pull over and sleep. In an RV you can stop at a Walmart, some Casinos and campsites. The seats are also much more comfortable than a regular car, and kids can easily sleep with their seat belts firmly tightened. As a bonus benefit, use your own pillow and blankets so there’s no getting used to a new hotel bed each night.

4. I need the loo
Just like food, when my kids have to go to the toilet they have to go now. Finally, we didn’t have to pull off a highway and find the nearest gas station, we had a toilet with us wherever we went. Same applies to a shower. If you jump in a river, slide down a muddy hill or just have a bad hair day, you have a shower with all your own toiletries within arm’s reach.

5. Use time more wisely
With built-in seatbelts, our dining table was transformed into a workstation. This meant my husband, Josh, was able to process photos and write articles while I drove the RV. It also meant the kids were able to complete school work, paint, draw, play UNO, and more with much more space and comfort than the usual car trip.

6. Campsites are fun
Typically, a small road-side hotel/motel is a place where you go to your room and sleep. Campsites, on the other hand, are social. It’s easy to make friends with your neighbours, there are playgrounds and mini-golf, go-karts and swimming pools. A campsite is set up for you to enjoy yourself and share it with the people around you.

7. More spontaneity
There is so much freedom with an RV. Campgrounds are generally more accommodating with extending stays at the last minute. You might fall in love with a national park and decide to stay right there in the middle of nowhere. Or perhaps make new friends as you eat dinner together. I loved the spontaneity of RV life.

The downside of spontaneity is that sometimes things go wrong. So it’s reassuring to know that if you own an RV, it may be able to be used for title loans if you need a bit of emergency cash during the trip.

8. Bring the bike and all the bags
There is plenty of storage in an RV. We easily fit all our suitcases, my sister’s bags and even my daughter’s bike. Compared to a car, getting luggage in and out is much easier too. However, collecting souvenirs and knick-knacks is easier too with all that room (I’m not sure if that’s a good or bad thingTongue Out.

9. Charge your electronics
RVs have electrical outlets for charging laptops, phones, iPads, cameras, Wi-Fi hotspots, and more. Very handy, nay essential, on a long trip.

10. Setting up camp is easy
Setting up a tent night after night can get tiring, but in an RV everything is ready. Pull into the lot, roll out the awning (in our case, push a button), plug in the water and electricity, and enjoy. Instant home wherever you are.

11. Easy to drive
Surprisingly, the RV was easy to drive, both in cities and highways. One of my unfounded fears was being trapped in a shoebox-on-wheels with a max speed of 50mph (80km/h), but driving was just plain fun.

Big mirrors like this made it easy to spot nearby traffic
Disadvantages
Ok, so it can’t all be rainbows and sunshine. Here’s the lowdown on what to expect when you’re expecting… your first RV road trip.

13. Wi-Fi woes
Like in most public locations,Wi-Fi that is shared with others can be temperamental. It’s no different at campgrounds, and usually more miserable than a hotel. Also many campsites have just 1 router so if your lot is far away from the main building/office, you could be out of reach and out of luck. Thankfully we have a TEP Wireless Wi-Fi hotspot, which worked in most spots around the US… except the middle of the Arizona desert.

Yep, it works out here in Horsehoe Bend!
14. A place to stay
If you are use to road tripping, then a hotel is generally an easy thing to find. In addition to clear roadside signage, there’s a bunch of established apps and websites for sourcing accommodation. Wrapping your head around campgrounds is a different beast and they’re usually much further out of town. Still, you always have a Walmart as a backup. Check out the KOA website to find a list of over 500 campgrounds around the US. Or take a look at these other handy resources: ultimatecampgrounds.com (best interactive map), uscampgrounds.info (neat colour-coded legend).

Our RV in Hurricane, Utah
15. Where’s the water?
Getting use to the ins and outs of an RV can be time-consuming and kinda…well, gross. Thankfully I have a man to drain the sewerage for me and he rarely complained of the smells. Remembering to fill up the fresh water reserve (for dry camping or boondocking) can take getting use to. The moment that shower starts sputtering is usually when I remembered oh, now’s a good time to check the water levels.

16. Tight quarters
RV living offers pretty tight quarters. If you have more than 4 people in your vehicle, space can be a precious commodity. And taking a shower is a very interesting experience. Granted, it’s roomier than a car. Although I’ve never tried to have a shower in a car before.

In saying that, most campgrounds have nice showers, and long-term RVers who are in the know usually use those.

17. Gas mileage
Fuel is, of course, more expensive. It not surprising that a vehicle weighing 3 times more than the average family car will get worse gas mileage. But it wasn’t as bad as I expected, or perhaps it could have been the extra-large fuel tanks which meant we didn’t have to refuel as often.

Tip: Remember to turn off the propane valve (to automatically extinguish the pilot light) before entering a gas station. Petrol fumes and open flames don’t play well together.

Interstate 15 in Nevada, driving from Las Vegas to Zion National Park
18. Where do I park?
Parking options are more limited for an RV. You probably will not be parallel parking in front of quaint little coffee shops or zipping through drive-thru restaurants. Large parking lots (such as Walmart) are pretty easy to navigate, and as a courtesy you should park further away from the building entrance to avoid congestion and teeny tiny parking spaces. It also pays to memorize the height of the roof. Then you can determine whether entering a covered parking garage is a good idea, or if a Starbucks drive-thru foamy latte is in the realm of possibility. Generally, the answer on both counts will be no.

19. Packing up
If you plan on staying at the same campsite for awhile sometimes disconnecting all the hookups and collecting all your outdoor chairs, tables and accessories can be time consuming. It would be so handy to bring along a small car for day trips and leave the RV in the campsite (either in a fifth wheel style RV, or flat-towed/flatbed trailer/tow dolly behind the RV). A small car can also save on gas costs. If we were going longer than 3-4 weeks next time, I’d seriously consider that option.

Challenges of RV Travel in China

1. Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Rural areas may have limited Wi-Fi access. Consider portable hotspots or local SIM cards for reliable internet during your travels.
2. Finding Suitable Campgrounds: Dedicated RV parks are limited in China. Plan your route to include locations with suitable accommodations or be prepared for wild camping regulations.
3. Water and Waste Management: Managing fresh water and waste disposal can be challenging. Familiarize yourself with local regulations and facilities for these needs.
4. Space Limitations: RV living can be cramped, especially with larger groups. Plan for comfortable living arrangements and utilize campground amenities like showers.
5. Fuel Costs: RVs consume more fuel than standard vehicles. Budget for higher fuel expenses, especially on longer journeys.
6. Parking Challenges: Finding suitable parking for RVs in urban areas can be difficult. Research parking options ahead of time and be mindful of height restrictions.
7. Maintenance and Repairs: Be prepared for mechanical issues. Learn basic RV maintenance or have contacts for local repair services.

Conclusion

Despite these challenges, RV travel in China offers a rewarding way to explore its rich landscapes and cultural heritage. With proper planning and flexibility, your first RV trip in China can be a memorable adventure filled with freedom and discovery. Enjoy the journey and embrace the unique experiences along the way!

Overview:
Baihao Yinzhen, created in 1796, is one of China’s six major types of white tea, originally produced in Fujian province. Key production areas include Fuding, Zherong, Zhenghe, Songxi, and Jianyang. It is considered one of China’s top ten famous teas and is often referred to as the “beauty” or “king” of teas due to its appearance: straight and needle-like, covered with abundant silver-white downy hairs. The finished tea leaves are about 3 cm in length. The name “Baihao Yinzhen” comes from its fresh, tender buds that retain a needle-like shape, dense white down, and silver-white color after processing.

Classification and Origin:
Baihao Yinzhen is classified as a type of white tea, made entirely from tender buds. It is renowned as the highest grade and most expensive tea among white teas. Baihao Yinzhen has been exported since the 19th century, with over 100 years of history abroad. Yunnan’s Baihao Yinzhen is produced in Jinggu County, Pu’er City, and Lincang City, known locally as Jinggu Dabaihao, a type of Pu’er tea characterized by ancient tea trees and distinctive Chinese silver tips.

Historical Development

• Early Qing Dynasty (1796 AD): Tea makers in Fujian created Baihao Yinzhen using robust tea buds from vegetable tea plants.
• 1891: Baihao Yinzhen began its export.
• 1912-1916: Marked the peak of production, with Fuding City and Songzheng County (now Zhenghe and Songxi Counties) each producing over 1,000 tons annually.
• World War I: Disrupted export routes.
• 1982: Recognized by the Ministry of Commerce as a national famous tea, ranking second among 30 famous teas.
• 1990: During the Second and Third National Famous Tea Evaluation Conferences in Xinyang, Henan, Baihao Yinzhen was honored again as a national famous tea.
• 1992: Yinguo, a product under the Baihao Yinzhen brand, was recognized as Fujian Province’s top famous tea, ranking first.

Health Benefits of Baihao Yinzhen

In ancient times, Baihao Yinzhen was valued for its medicinal properties, as highlighted by the proverb, “Shennong tasted hundreds of herbs, encountering seventy-two poisons, finding tea to resolve them.” The tea retains the original nutrients of the leaves and is known for its mild nature and powerful effects similar to rhino horn, initially valued abroad as a medicinal product.

Nutritional Content:
Harvested primarily in early spring after winter dormancy, Baihao Yinzhen’s leaves are rich in amino acids, vitamins, catechins, and minerals. These nutrients enhance memory, protect nerves, reduce blood pressure, and exhibit potent antioxidant properties.

Medicinal Properties:
Baihao Yinzhen is noted for its cooling properties, effective in reducing fever, dispelling heat, and detoxification. It is preferred for treating wind-heat colds and supporting measles patients in northern China.

Aging Process:
Over prolonged storage, Baihao Yinzhen undergoes continuous internal transformation, resulting in surprising changes in health benefits and flavor profiles.

Taste Profile of Baihao Yinzhen

• Dry Leaves: High-quality Baihao Yinzhen features plump buds densely covered with white down, uniformly shaped with slight fine particles.
• Liquor Color: The tea’s liquor is light, clear, and bright, typically ranging from light apricot-yellow to apricot-yellow.
• Aroma: Baihao Yinzhen has a pure and elegant aroma with floral hints, accompanied by clear soy milk and downy fragrances.
• Taste: The tea has a fresh, sweet, and mellow taste, with no bitterness or astringency, and a lingering sweetness. It withstands multiple infusions, yielding seven to eight brews with a lingering aftertaste.
• Leaf Base: The leaves are soft, tender, elastic, and uniform, reflecting the delicate and active nature of the raw material.

Varieties of Baihao Yinzhen

1. Head Picked Silver Needle (头采银针): Harvested around mid-March, characterized by tender buds with high amino acid content and a unique fragrance combining downy and floral honey aromas.
2. Wild Silver Needle (荒野银针): Harvested from wild tea trees that have grown independently for over a decade, imparting a distinct wild aroma and heightened taste recognition in the tea liquor.
3. Charcoal-Baked Silver Needle (炭焙银针): Processed using charcoal-baking techniques, known for its dynamic transformation due to enzyme activity enhanced under gentle heat. The tea has a lively downy fragrance and a long-lasting charcoal aroma.

Common Brewing Methods for Baihao Yinzhen

Brewing Process:
Due to its simple production process, Baihao Yinzhen’s internal qualities require sufficient water temperature to release fully. The typical brewing ratio is 1:25, using 5 grams of dry tea with 110 milliliters of water in a covered porcelain cup. Pre-warm the cup with hot water, add the dry tea, shake gently to awaken the aroma, then pour in hot water to brew.

Key Considerations:

• Water Temperature: Should reach 100°C to effectively brew the tea buds and release the flavors.
• Pouring Technique: Pour hot water along the cup (or teapot) walls to avoid damaging the appearance of the buds and clouding the tea liquor.
• Post-Brewing: After each brew, ensure all tea liquor is poured out from the cup to preserve the taste and aroma for subsequent brews.

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.

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