We drove two hours west of Shanghai to Dongshan, which is just south-west of Suzhou. We stayed at the Dongshan Hotel.
Just south of the hotel there are three scenic spots for those interested in Biluochen green tea. First, there is a plantation.
The sign at the bottom-left reads “flower is more beautiful on tree than in hand”
A teahouse along the plantation trail
It is possible to drive around the entire Dongshan mountain. The entire route is about 40km. To the south of the mountain they have seafood farms along Taihu Lake that stretch as far as the eye can see. To the west of the mountain there are fabulous mansions that overlook the lake. Also to the south of the mountain is a market that sells tea-related items. Driving this loop is a good way to get a feel for Dongshan as a whole.
The third point of interest for those interested in tea is the Jiangnan Tea Culture Museum
The tea-growing regions of China. Notice how most of them are south of the Yangtze river. A common tale heard in tea villages is that Northerners drink alchohol, Southerners drink tea.
茶, or cha, the character for tea
Somewhat creepy exhibit
Some design inspiration
A Biluochun teapot
