Jicky's Guide to Jasmine Tea Journeys in China

Discovering the Heart of Jasmine Tea in Hengzhou

I’m Jicky, from Shiha Teapot Shop, who has traveled extensively to tea-producing regions across China. Among all the places I’ve visited, the jasmine market and witnessing the production process remain the most memorable experiences.

This time, I introduce behind every cup of aromatic jasmine tea. It is a blend of traditional techniques, immense effort, and countless flower buds. Seeing this process firsthand has become a lifelong treasure for me. I highly encourage everyone to visit Hengzhou and experience this incredible journey for themselves.

Hengzhou is located in Guangxi Province and known as a major production area for jasmine flower in China. (See the last chapter for the map)

Hengzhou: The Jasmine Flower Capital

In Hengzhou, jasmine flower production accounts for over 80% of China's total and more than 60% of the world's total.

Jasmine flowers bloom from April to October. During this period, jasmine buds are harvested and used for jasmine tea production.

Jasmine Market - Worthwhile Destination for Tea Enthusiasts

The local jasmine market in Hengzhou is bustling with activity, as farmers bring freshly picked jasmine buds, harvested in the morning and afternoon, to sell to tea-producing companies.

Deeply rooted in the region’s culture and traditions, the jasmine flower market in Hengzhou offers a captivating experience, making it a must-visit destination for tea enthusiasts.

A Recommended Tea Tour: Experience the Entire Process

During the day, I suggest you visit the jasmine tea fields where you can experience the delicate process of picking the buds. Picking buds in the lush fields is a truly special experience. Only the large, swollen, milky-white buds are carefully selected and picked because these are the signs of the buds that will bloom that very night.
As evening approaches, head to the market, where you’ll witness the bustling trading of freshly picked jasmine buds.

The Night-Time Fragrance: How Tea is Scented

Jasmine buds open(bloom) in the night and release their fragrance, which is why the process of scenting the tea leaves takes place during the night. The tea producers layer the flowers with tea leaves from night until morning, allowing the tea to absorb the jasmine’s fragrance.

If you can contact a tea company beforehand, you may even have the opportunity to see this process up close, which is an incredibly fascinating experience.

Location of Hengzhou Jasmine Flower Market

Here is the location of one of the markets in Hengzhou City(横州市)

Hengxian Jasmine Flower Market:
No. 47 Longshou Road, Hengzhou, Nanning City, Guangxi, China
(Chinese Address: 横县茉莉花市场: 中国広西省南宁市横州市 龙首路47号)

Note: Hengzhou(横州) used be called Hengxian(横县) until 2021.

Map in Baidu :https://j.map.baidu.com/7c/WS6

Conclusion: A Memorable Tea Journey

Visiting Hengzhou offers a glimpse into the essence of jasmine tea production. I highly recommend exploring the rich traditions and culture behind jasmine tea—it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!