What started as a handful of seedlings in 1991 has blossomed into a living symbol of connection across the Taiwan Strait. Tea expert Lin Yunlian, armed with cuttings of Taiwan's prized high mountain oolong, embarked on a mission to plant roots – both literal and cultural – on Yunnan's misty plateaus.
Three decades later, those saplings now tower as lush tea trees, their leaves whispering stories of shared heritage. 🌿 "Tea isn't just leaves in water – it's history, craftsmanship, and conversation," Lin tells us through steam rising from his latest brew.
His journey mirrors the tea-making process itself: patient cultivation, careful adaptation to new terrain, and ultimately, a rich blend of traditions. While Taiwan's oolong techniques transformed Yunnan's tea landscape, local Dai and Hani minority farmers added their own cultural infusions.
This cross-strait collaboration now pours into teacups worldwide, proving that some roots grow stronger when transplanted. As Gen Z rediscovers artisanal teas through #TeaTok trends, Lin's story reminds us that every sip connects us to generations of growers – and to each other. ☕️
