Location & Transportation

The Imperial Tea Garden Site sits within the Wuyi Mountain National Scenic Area in Fujian Province, near the Sanming-Sansheng Provincial Highway. To get there, drive to the Jiuqu Toll Station and exit the highway. The tea garden is nestled in a lush valley, surrounded by steep cliffs and misty mountains—a perfect blend of nature and history.

For those without a car, local buses from Nanping City drop you near the scenic area’s entrance. From there, it’s a short walk or shuttle ride to the tea garden. The address might sound remote, but the journey is part of the adventure!

Natural Scenery: A Tea-Lover’s Paradise

The Imperial Tea Garden Site is framed by Wuyi’s iconic rocky peaks and crystal-clear streams. Unlike other tea regions, Wuyi’s tea grows on steep cliffs and narrow terraces, giving its famous rock tea (Yan Cha) a unique flavor. The air here feels crisp, especially in the morning when the sun lights up the dewy tea leaves.

During my visit, I wandered through terraced fields where workers harvested leaves. The scenery felt like a mix between a traditional Chinese painting and a hidden paradise. Don’t miss the nearby Jiuqu Stream, where you can take a bamboo raft ride to see more of Wuyi’s dramatic landscapes.

Cultural Heritage: Tea, History, and Community

The Imperial Tea Garden Site dates back to ancient times when Wuyi tea was a tribute to Chinese emperors. Today, locals still grow semi-fermented rock tea here, which they claim is “stomach-friendly” compared to other teas. What struck me most? The deep connection between tea and daily life.

Many residents run both tourism businesses and tea farms. At a local tea house, I chatted with a worker who explained how they sun-dry tea leaves on bamboo trays. The owner even shared stories about their family’s tea-making traditions, spanning generations. It’s not just a tourist spot—it’s a living culture.

Facilities: Relaxed Vibes and Warm Service

Inside the Imperial Tea Garden Site, you’ll find simple yet cozy facilities. Tea houses offer seating where you can sip freshly brewed tea while watching workers sort leaves. The staff are incredibly welcoming—they’ll happily explain tea-making techniques without rushing you.

Some places even let you try DIY tea roasting, though I stuck to watching pros. Bring cash or a card; most spots accept both. If you get hungry, nearby stalls sell local snacks like tea-infused cakes, which pair perfectly with a hot cup of Yan Cha.

Experience: Slow Down and Savor

Visiting the Imperial Tea Garden Site feels like stepping into a calmer world. I spent over an hour sitting in a tea house, listening to the owner’s stories and watching workers lay out tea leaves to dry. The staff never pressured me to buy anything—they just shared their passion for tea.

For a deeper experience, ask a local to guide you through a tea ceremony. You’ll learn why Wuyi tea is called “warmth in a cup” and how the region’s fog and rocks shape its flavor. Whether you’re a tea expert or a casual drinker, the Imperial Tea Garden Site offers a peaceful escape from busy life.

In short, the Imperial Tea Garden Site is more than a景点—it’s a chance to sip history, breathe fresh air, and connect with China’s tea soul. Pack comfy shoes, bring curiosity, and prepare to leave with a bag (or two) of Wuyi’s famous tea!