Basic Introduction to Wudang Dao Tea
Wudang Dao Tea is produced in the Wudang Mountains of Northwest Hubei, which are a world-famous Taoist holy site, one of the main origins of Chinese tea, and the core water source area for the central route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The tea gardens are mainly located in the high mountains at an altitude of 500m-1000m, with excellent ecological conditions and natural advantages. They are designated as a priority tea production area by the Ministry of Agriculture and are known for producing high-aromatic green tea and organic tea. The region has been honored with the titles of “China's Eco-Organic Tea Hometown” and “China's Dao Tea Culture Hometown,” and it is a protected geographical indication product.
Nutritional Value
Firstly, drinking tea can cure illnesses. In medical texts, tea is referred to as “Ming.” It is said that most Taoists are knowledgeable about medicine, and they pay great attention to the medicinal value of Dao Tea. Throughout history, many Taoists have used tea to treat ailments in the mystical Wudang Mountains.
Secondly, drinking tea promotes health and fitness. Tea can clear the mind, refresh the spirit, improve vision, and quench thirst. As a beverage, it has multiple functions for health and fitness.
Thirdly, tea aids in self-cultivation and character development. When Taoists meditate, they emphasize “harmony, tranquility, joy, and truth.” Especially during night meditation, one might feel tired or drowsy. Drinking tea can help maintain alertness and concentration, overcoming sleepiness. For Taoists cultivating their character, drinking Dao Tea allows them to savor life and comprehend the “bitter truth.” Enjoying a cup of fine Dao Tea, with its fragrance and color, provides spiritual enjoyment and is a wonderful way to cultivate oneself.
Product Characteristics
The enduring fame of Wudang Dao Tea both domestically and internationally lies in its superior quality. The tea trees in Wudang are of excellent variety, grown in good soil and climate, with suitable rainfall. The leaves are plump and of high quality, often described as “clouds and mist from the immortal mountain.” Medical studies have shown that regular consumption of green tea can enhance the immune system's ability to fight viral infections, aiding in anti-aging and longevity. Some traditional Chinese medicine experts combine herbs with tea to create medicinal teas with significant health benefits based on the therapeutic properties of tea.
Wudang Dao Tea gathers the essence of the Taoist immortal mountain, takes advantage of being naturally organic, and integrates Taoist culture with tea culture. Its products stand out for their exceptional quality, and the eco-friendly nature of the industry is distinctive. As early as the Tang and Song dynasties, Wudang Dao Tea was presented as tribute to the imperial court. Following the ways of nature and carrying forward civilization, Wudang Dao Tea, with its three key qualities—organic, highly aromatic, and harmonious—along with its unique connection to Taoist culture, enables those who drink it to gain insights into nature and life, cultivating their character and promoting longevity, with limitless benefits.
History and Folklore
Legend has it that the Eight Immortals, attracted by the reputation of Wudang Dao Tea, stole the longevity tea made by Laozi using alchemical techniques from Laojun Hall. They gathered under ancient tea trees, brewing and tasting the tea, becoming enlightened through the experience, hence the establishment of Baxian Temple. The local people believe this place is blessed with divine presence, and generations of Taoists have cultivated tea here, making Baxian Village famous for its Dao Tea production.
Determining Authenticity of Wudang Dao Tea
Wudang Mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the home of Dao Tea, with a long history of tea culture intertwined with Taoist beliefs. Around Qingming Festival, the first batch of green tea from Wudang Mountain hits the market. During tours of Wudang Mountain, buses make scheduled stops at the Baxian Tea Factory for ten minutes, allowing tourists not only to enjoy fresh air and view the vast tea fields but also to taste Wudang Dao Tea! When tasting the tea, you will notice differences between new and old tea!
The Wudang Mountain Travel Network informs you that there is a method called “one look, two smells, three brews” to distinguish between new and old tea.
Look: New tea has a fresh green color and slender leaves; old tea appears dark, with a dull green or even yellowish hue, and the leaves tend to be broader.
Smell: New tea has a distinct aroma reminiscent of fresh grass, while old tea has a noticeable stale and bitter scent.
Brew: The tea soup of old tea turns yellowish or reddish, whereas new tea produces a clear, greenish infusion!