Fu-Yuan Tea Factory Introduction
Taoyuan Longtan, a place that has experienced the rise and fall of tea production in Taiwan, once boasted hundreds of tea factories at its peak. However, many of them have since closed down or sold their land, leaving only a scant few remaining. Mr. Huang Wen-Liang, the fourth-generation successor of Fuyuan Tea Factory, feels deeply about this change. The remarkable production of "black gold," which reached 3 to 4 million pounds annually, has drastically decreased to just one-tenth due to the loss of export advantages. Nevertheless, his unwavering belief has helped the tea factory survive the downturn, not only preserving a century-old tea fragrance but also vigorously promoting a culture of quality tea. Walking along the ancient path to Fuyuan Tea Factory, one can enjoy the natural scenery of fields and hills, traditional Hakka floral patterns on bamboo hats, and tea pickers bending down with their bamboo tea baskets, creating a serene and pleasant tableau of tea gardens. Founded in 1949, Fuyuan was constructed using locally sourced materials, adopting mechanized methods for large-scale production. Today, antique European tea machinery can still be seen operating continuously, with the booming sounds of roasting tea echoing the historical timeline of tea-making. When brewed, the tea releases a cinnamon fragrance, while the taste on the palate carries a refreshing mint flavor. The first sip of Fuyuan’s flagship tea, "Ruby" (Tai Tea No. 18), is truly astonishing, reflecting the dedication of the tea growers. The detailed tour within the tea factory allows visitors to gain an in-depth understanding of the tea-making process. There are also other varieties to sample, such as the gongfu tea "sour calamondin tea" and Pung Feng tea "Oriental Beauty tea," each worth savoring. The renowned beverage brand Cha Li Wang produces its Japanese green tea at Fuyuan Tea Factory, with advertisements also filmed on-site. The factory offers activities such as tea picking, ball rolling, red tea kneading, and DIY tea powder grinding, allowing visitors to experience tea production firsthand. Inside the quaint tea factory, one can follow skilled artisans to learn about tea culture and craft a sweet aftertaste beverage, where every step of the process is critical. Amid the soothing aroma of tea, visitors unconsciously release the stress of their busy lives.
