Tea Picking and Processing at Qixian Peak Scenic Area, Yangshuo, Guilin

1. Overview of Qixian Peak Scenic Area
   Nestled in Yangshuo, a renowned scenic spot in Guilin, Qixian Peak Scenic Area is celebrated for its lush tea gardens, karst landscapes, and rich tea culture. With an average altitude of over 600 metres, the area boasts mist-shrouded hills, mineral-rich soil, and a pollution-free ecosystem—ideal conditions for growing high-quality tea.
2. Tea Picking Experience
   Best Time to Pick: Spring (April-May) and autumn are the prime seasons, when tea buds are plump and fragrant. May, in particular, is perfect for harvesting spring tea.
   Hands-On Activity: Visitors can don bamboo hats, carry tea baskets, and step into the vast tea fields. Guided by local gardeners, they’ll learn to pick fresh, tender tea shoots—savouring the joy of connecting with nature amid the greenery.
3. Tea Processing
   Traditional Craftsmanship: The tea processing here follows time-honored techniques, including fixation (stir-frying to halt oxidation), rolling (shaping the leaves), and drying (removing moisture). These steps preserve the tea’s natural aroma and flavour.
   Interactive Experience: Under the guidance of skilled artisans, visitors can try their hand at stir-frying the picked tea shoots, witnessing the transformation from fresh leaves to finished tea. Tasting the tea they’ve helped make adds a rewarding sense of accomplishment.
4. Tea Quality & Varieties
   The scenic area produces premium organic green teas under the “Cuiyu” brand, including maojian (hairy tip), longjing (dragon well), and biluochun (green snail spring). These teas are praised for their elegant shape, rich chestnut-like aroma, mellow taste, and lingering sweetness—rivalling the finest green teas in China.
5. Cultural Highlights
   Beyond picking and processing, visitors can engage in tea culture activities:

Opening ceremonies with gong sounds to mark the start of the harvest season.
Experiences along the ancient tea-horse road.
Tea ceremony performances, offering insights into the profound traditions of Chinese tea culture.

Qixian Peak Scenic Area blends natural beauty, hands-on fun, and cultural depth, making it a must-visit destination for tea lovers and travellers exploring Guilin’s charm.