Autumn 2026 Program
Min Yue East China Tea Tour
The Concept of Min Yue
Min Yue (閩粵) is more than the name of this journey. It describes the cultural connection between Fujian and Guangdong, two neighboring provinces that have shaped Chinese tea for centuries. Having lived between these two worlds, we invite you to experience them not as visitors collecting destinations, but as guests learning how tea reflects the people and places where it belongs.
Fujian is a major center for wulong and red tea production, while Guangdong, historically known as Canton, became a hub for trade and consumption, where Chaozhou gongfu cha shaped modern tea practice. Drawing from Pink’s childhood upbringing in Guangdong and our current life in Fujian, we bridge these two worlds to share an authentic, unfiltered view of local tea culture.
Exclusively led by the founders of ho yum tea, Pink and Nadi, this tour offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into the world of iconic tea cultures. We will meet esteemed professionals and our trusted mentors, gaining direct insights into traditional craftsmanship and various aspects of tea art.
An Immersive Tea Journey
This two weeks journey into the heart of local Chinese tea cultures in East China, balances foundational preparation with practical field exploration. We begin in our Xiamen tea space, where comparative tastings and discussions give everyone a shared foundation. Rather than arriving at the mountains as tourists, we arrive with the references needed to ask better questions, recognize differences, and engage more deeply with the people we meet.
Throughout the journey, every destination builds on the previous one. Tea becomes a way to understand landscape, craftsmanship, local cuisine, history, and the communities that continue to shape these traditions today.
"My work follow four stages: studying raw materials, learning artistic principles, exploring the history of ceramic tradition, and deepening Chaozhou Gongfu Cha culture. Only by understanding the full context and sharing it can the craft survive and be passed on."
Master Zheng
Route & Main Activities
Xiamen
- Foundational tasting workshops featuring iconic Fujian tea, including Fuding white tea
- Chaozhou-style brewing practice in our dedicated space
- Tea storage tour and aged tea tasting session
- Xiamen city walking tour
- Michelin-starred Minnan dining experience
Wuyi Shan
- Yancha masterclass and tea factory tour
- Authentic Minbei mountain food cooked by local farmers
- Historical walking tour in the ancient Xiamei Village
- Da Hong Pao Impression cultural performance
- Hike to Hui Yuan Temple in Zhengyan Park
- Vegetarian lunch and tea session with the monks
- Guided hike through the Zhengyan National Park
Tongmu Guan
- Wild tea plantation tour in a UNESCO World Heritage protected site
- Red tea museum guided tour
- Wild red tea masterclass
- Special Lapsang Souchong inspired lunch
Anxi
- Tie Guan Yin autumn harvest plantation tour
- Visit the Tie Guan Yin Mother Bush
Chaozhou & Phoenix Mountain
- Ming Dynasty traditional courtyard homestay in ancient city
- Traditional Chaozhou-style Dancong tasting
- Dancong planation tour in Wudong Shan
- DIY Chaozhou pottery workshop
- Exploring vintage gongfu teaware
"As tea makers living in the mountains, our ancestors taught us to focus on one thing: making sincere tea for those who truly appreciate it. Tea is not just a craft, but a living inheritance of spirit and culture."
Master Zhang
Traveler Ratings
Dates & Registration
Join our next East China Min Yue tour:
November 3-15, 2026
Submit an inquiry below - sharing your country, age, and connection to tea - to receive the complete itinerary and pricing details.
FAQs
What makes this journey different?
This is not a commercial agency package. We run the trip directly with no outsourcing. It is an original route built on our direct sourcing relationships, focusing deeply on yefang cha and exclusive culinary experiences. We update the route for every group, so the experience stays fresh and singular.
Who leads the journey?
The tour is personally guided by Nadi and Pink, the founders of ho yum tea. With over a decade of experience in natural tea research, sourcing, and education, we provide a direct bridge between our dedicated mentors in the field and our travelers. Rather than using outside agencies, we lead every step ourselves to ensure the highest standard of tea education and an authentic, unfiltered experience.
What is included in the tour?
The journey is fully inclusive once you arrive. We cover all accommodations, daily meals, internal transportation, and masterclasses. You are only responsible for your flights, visa, and travel insurance. Travelers arrive individually from different countries to Xiamen, where we provide an optional airport pickup to the hotel. This builds a unique international group of tea friends.
How often does the tour take place?
We host this journey once a year in Autumn.
How do I register and get the early bird discount?
To register, please fill out the contact form below. Early bird pricing is a limited time period available to anyone who signs up early. However, our waiting list and blind tasting club members receive first access to secure a spot. When you apply, we would love for you to share a bit about yourself, your age, where you are from, and your personal connection to tea. After receiving your details, we will reply with the booking and payment instructions.
Where can I see the full schedule?
Submit an inquiry using the form below. We will reply with a comprehensive PDF itinerary detailing the complete route, daily activities, accommodations, and more.
Can you accommodate vegan and vegetarian travelers?
Of course! We take note of your dietary requirements and make sure your food is adjusted accordingly. China is very vegan and vegetarian-friendly if prepared in advance, and we are very experienced in curating these authentic local meals for you without any compromise.
Do you assist with travel arrangements?
Certainly. We provide comprehensive guidance for all your travel arrangements. While each traveler should apply for their own visa and travel insurance, we will guide you through the process no matter where you travel from. Furthermore, we will coordinate all internal travel arrangements before your arrival, ensuring a seamless experience.
Do I need prior gongfu cha experience?
You do not need to be an expert, but a dedicated interest in gongfu cha is highly recommended. The masterclasses are technical and designed for serious practitioners and professionals.
Will I need to speak Chinese?
Not at all. We provide full guidance and translation for all activities and masterclasses. This allows you to connect directly with the masters without worrying about language or cultural gaps.