An Introduction to the Teas of China: The Historic Tea Horse Road
Welcome back, teafarers! Today, we’re diving into a chapter of tea history that’s as thrilling as it is essential – the legendary Tea Horse Road. This ancient trade route not only shaped the way we enjoy tea today but also played a pivotal role in the cultural and economic exchanges between China and its neighbouring regions.
So, pour yourself a comforting cup of Pu'er, and let’s embark on this fascinating journey together.
Photo: Me bidding farewell to a local tea master on a village on the tea horse road
The Tea Horse Road: A Journey Through History
The Tea Horse Road, also known in Chinese as the 茶马古道 (Chamagudao), was an extensive network of trade routes that connected Yunnan in China with Tibet, Nepal, India, and beyond. This route was crucial for the exchange of tea from China for horses from Tibet, hence the name.
The journey was long and arduous, spanning thousands of miles through treacherous mountains, lush valleys, and high-altitude plateaus.
The Route: From Yunnan to Lhasa and Beyond
The Tea Horse Road began in the lush tea-growing regions of Yunnan Province, where our beloved Pu'er tea originates. From there, it wound its way through Sichuan Province and into Tibet, reaching as far as Lhasa. The route extended into Nepal and India, facilitating a rich exchange of goods, culture, and knowledge.
Image source: Tibettravels.org
Pressed Teas: From Tea Leaves to Tea Cakes
One of the most iconic features of this trade route was the way tea was transported. To withstand the long journey, teas were pressed into various shapes, the most common being cakes (known as "bingcha"). Typically, seven cakes of 357g each would make one tǒng (the so called "七子饼“ qizibing), and 12 tǒng make one jiàn.
Image source: eBay
Other forms included bricks, tuos (nest-shaped), and even intricate sculptures. This method of compression not only made the tea easier to transport but also allowed it to become a form of currency, allowing tea to be usually traded for hardy Tibetan horses.
Most importantly, the compression of the tea leaves also contributed to its unique ageing process.
As the tea journeyed along the Tea Horse Road, it underwent significant changes. The long, humid, and often bumpy journey caused the teas to oxidise and ferment naturally.
This process enhanced the flavours, giving aged Pu'er its distinctive, rich, and earthy profile. The exposure to varying climates and conditions during transport contributed to the complexity that tea enthusiasts cherish today.
Noteworthy Events and Dates
The Tea Horse Road flourished from the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) through to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912 AD). One particularly notable period was during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), when the trade reached its peak.
The year 1725 marked an important date when the Qing government established official tea trading offices to regulate and encourage the trade, ensuring a steady flow of tea and horses.
In more recent times, the recognition of the Tea Horse Road’s historical significance has led to various cultural celebrations and festivals. For instance, the annual Tea Horse Road Festival in Lijiang, Yunnan, offers a vibrant commemoration of this ancient trade route, complete with reenactments, exhibitions, and, of course, tea tastings.
Photo: Nakeli, a village that sits 25km away from Pu'er city on the Tea Horse Road
The Relevance for Modern Tea Drinkers
So, why should we, as modern tea enthusiasts, care about the Tea Horse Road? Understanding the historical journey of our favourite teas enhances our appreciation of each sip.
The natural fermentation and ageing process that began on these ancient trails still influences how we store and age Pu'er tea today, and is indeed what gave rise to the "shou" (fermented) style of Pu'er today – essentially, an accelearted version of nature's own fermentation process.
This history adds depth to our tea rituals, connecting us to centuries of tradition and craftsmanship.
Visiting the Tea Horse Road Today
For those inspired to see the remnants of this ancient route, there are several key locations where you can immerse yourself in the history of the Tea Horse Road. Start your adventure in the old town of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can walk the same streets that ancient traders once did.
Then, head to the tea markets of Dali and explore the stunning tea plantations in the mountains of Xishuangbanna.
For a more rugged experience, trek along sections of the ancient trail in Tibet, where you can witness the dramatic landscapes that shaped the journey of tea and horses. Museums in Yunnan and Sichuan also offer exhibits detailing the rich history and cultural impact of the Tea Horse Road.
Image source: Gary Sigley
Conclusion
The Tea Horse Road is more than just a historical trade route; it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of tea and its ability to bridge cultures and generations.
As we sip our teas today, we’re partaking in a tradition that has travelled thousands of miles and hundreds of years to reach us. So, next time you enjoy a cup of Pu'er, remember the incredible journey it has taken – from the mountains of Yunnan, across the vast Tea Horse Road, and finally into your teacup.