A vibrant tea expo is currently underway in Beijing, transforming into a lively stage for showcasing China’s intangible cultural heritage. The event not only celebrates the rich world of tea but also highlights traditional tea-making techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Timed with the Grain Rain solar term, the last term in spring, the expo aims to go beyond displaying tea products. ‘The expo should illustrate the intangible cultural heritage involved in the tea industry,’ said Zhai Huqu, Honorary President of the China Association for the Promotion of International Agricultural Cooperation, during the opening ceremony on Friday.
Heritage practitioners from the renowned West Lake Longjing tea growing areas demonstrated their skilled techniques, from selecting tea leaves and pouring water to serving the tea with precision and grace. West Lake Longjing tea, famed for its vibrant green color, rich aroma, sweet taste, and beautiful appearance, has captivated tea lovers across China.
‘This year, we have ten heritage practitioners demonstrating together at the expo,’ said a manager from the West Lake Longjing tea exhibition group. ‘We hope to integrate traditional tea-making techniques into modern life and keep these skills vibrant and alive.’
Similar activities were showcased at the Fuzhou jasmine tea exhibition zone, where national-level heritage inheritor Wang Dexing performed the ‘jasmine flower blending into tea’ technique. Visitors engaged with the art, experiencing firsthand the charm and vitality of this traditional skill.
Running until April 21, the four-day expo features over 700 exhibitors. More than ten core tea growing areas in China have organized delegations, highlighting the diversity of China’s tea culture. The expo also serves as a platform for international tea traders, including participants from Sri Lanka.
China’s tea industry continues to flourish. In recent years, tea output has reached record highs, reflecting a growing appreciation for both the beverage and the cultural heritage it represents.
The Beijing Tea Expo not only offers a feast for the senses but also serves as a bridge between traditional practices and contemporary life, ensuring that the rich heritage of Chinese tea culture continues to thrive.
