Why the produce here is special
The Fanjingshan area is high, cloud-wrapped and has distinctive soil and climate, nurturing many local products. Good land and water give good tea — and good country flavours.
Tea and tea culture
The area around Fanjingshan is known tea country, with the tea from the Tuanlong area especially famous. Grown among cloud and mist, the buds are plump and the brew fragrant and full-bodied. If you love tea, take some home as a gift and learn about picking and making in the tea hills.
Purple-robe jade-belt stone
A local ornamental stone named for its alternating purple and jade-white bands. Carved into inkstones and ornaments, its colours are elegant and it makes a distinctive souvenir.
Country flavours
- Shefan: glutinous rice steamed with cured pork, wild scallion and dried tofu — fragrant and seasonal;
- Rice tofu: made from rice milk, smooth and good either chilled or hot;
- Mushrooms, cured meats and Tujia dishes are also common, with plain, honest flavours.
Buying tips
- Buy tea and stone carvings from reputable sellers and check origin and grade;
- For mushrooms and cured meats, mind shelf life and storage;
- Buy sensibly and only what you need, and avoid carrying excess.
