Coffee, once a novelty in China, has grown into a significant industry valued at over 350 billion yuan annually. This growth has led to a unique cultural phenomenon where each region of China offers its own distinct coffee flavors, deeply rooted in local traditions and lifestyles.

Original Flavors

In Zhengdong Town, Yunnan Province, Zhang Fan’s coffee shop showcases the ‘Zhengdong Sunset,’ a blend of grapefruit juice, blood orange juice, and locally grown ‘Zhengdong Catimor’ coffee beans. These beans, adapted to the region’s climate, offer a warm floral and fruity profile, reflecting Yunnan’s natural conditions.

Meanwhile, in Yanji, Jilin Province, barista Cui Fenghua incorporates local ginseng into her coffee, creating a rich, earthy brew. This reflects the Korean ethnic tradition of using medicinal herbs, with ginseng being a staple in local culture.

Fusion of Lifestyles

Yanji’s coffee culture, influenced by cross-border exchanges with Russia and South Korea, has embraced diverse flavors. The city, despite its cold climate, boasts over 1,000 coffee shops, highlighting a hybrid lifestyle that blends international influences with local traditions.

In Taishan, Guangdong Province, the coffee scene is characterized by sweet, milky flavors, influenced by the ‘Huaqiao’ culture of overseas Chinese. This region’s coffee culture is inclusive, integrating elements like ‘Bai Qie Ji Latte,’ which creatively incorporates local culinary heritage.

Urban Experience

China’s evolving coffee culture is not just about the beverage itself but also about urban renewal and cultural exchange. Each city’s coffee scene weaves together modern and traditional elements, offering a microcosm of local life and a testament to the country’s rich cultural diversity.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.