Drawn to Quanzhou by a song, I found my heart filled with the aroma of tea.

Seeking tea in Quanzhou, I encountered time itself.

A song, "Maritime Silk Road Quanzhou," inspired my journey to this city. "Erythrina trees bloom in vibrant competition, a land of sages and virtuous souls, half city smoke and fire, half city ethereal." The Quanzhou depicted in the song held a mystical allure, drawing me in, making me eager to unveil its secrets.

Upon arrival, I immersed myself in the ancient city. Red brick houses stood in picturesque disarray, stone paths wound through the streets, and the scent of tea drifted from old shops along the way. Stepping into a time-honored teahouse, the carved wooden door slowly opened, releasing a wave of delicate tea fragrance. Inside, wooden tables and chairs were neatly arranged, calligraphy and paintings adorned the walls, and lush green plants thrived in the corners.

A tea master, dressed in traditional attire, skillfully prepared the tea set. She gently placed tea leaves into a Yixing teapot, and as hot water poured in, the aroma of tea filled the air. Mimicking her movements, I lifted a small teacup and took a sip of Tieguanyin. The tea was golden and translucent, slightly bitter at first, followed by a lingering sweetness. The fragrance spread through my mouth, enduring long after the sip.

The teahouse was quiet, punctuated only by the occasional clinking of teacups. Gazing out the window, I watched people stroll leisurely, sunlight glinting off the tiles of the old houses. In that moment, I felt as though I had merged with the city's slow-paced life, all my worries fading away.

Enjoying tea in Quanzhou is more than just savoring the beverage; it's about experiencing the city's history and culture. Through the fragrance of tea, I sensed the former prosperity of Quanzhou as the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road, and I appreciated the locals' love and tranquility towards life. As I departed, my heart was filled with warmth and fondness. Quanzhou, the city I journeyed to because of a song, has become an unforgettable memory.

Post by IneffableMellifluousZephyr | Mar 12, 2025