Fuyuan Tea Factory Introduction
Taoyuan Longtan, which has experienced the rise and fall of tea production in Taiwan, once boasted hundreds of tea factories during its peak. Now, only a handful remain, as many have closed or sold their land. Mr. Huang Wen-liang, the fourth-generation successor of Fuyuan Tea Factory, feels deeply about this situation. The production of "black gold" reached 3 to 4 million pounds a year, but has since plummeted to 1/10 due to the loss of export advantages. However, with a steadfast belief in perseverance, the factory has weathered the downturn, continuing a century-old tea legacy while striving to promote good tea culture. Walking along the old trails to Fuyuan Tea Factory, one can enjoy the natural scenery of fields and hills, the Hakka floral cloth on straw hats, and tea pickers bending down with bamboo tea baskets, creating a serene and idyllic tea plantation picture. Established in 1949, the founder of Fuyuan constructed the factory using local materials and mechanized production on a large scale. Today, visitors can still see antique European tea processing machines continuously in operation, echoing the historical journey of tea through the rumbling sounds of drying tea. When brewed, the tea releases a cinnamon fragrance, and on the palate, it has a refreshing mint taste. The signature tea of Fuyuan Tea Factory—"Red Jade" (Taiwan Tea No. 18)—is surprisingly impressive, reflecting the dedication of tea growers. The detailed tours within the factory allow travelers to gain insight into the tea-making process. Other teas worth savoring include the Kung Fu Tea "Sour Kumquat Tea" and the Pung Feng Tea "Oriental Beauty Tea." The popular beverage brand Tealight's Japanese green tea is produced at Fuyuan Tea Factory, and commercials are also filmed here. The factory offers activities such as tea picking, rolling cloth balls, rolling black tea, and grinding tea powder DIY experiences, allowing visitors to engage in tea-making. Inside the quaint factory, participants can learn about tea culture from seasoned masters and create flavorful tea drinks with a lingering sweetness. Each step in the process is taken with care, and amid the soothing fragrance of tea, the stress of busy life is naturally released.
