Xixiang, the Northwestern Tea Town

XIXIANG COUNTY, China, Nov. 18, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- As drinking tea has long been a worldwide fashion, China is recognized as the home of various teas. One of them is known for its orchid-like shape, clear color and fresh taste. That is Ziwu Xianhao, produced in Xixiang County, Shaanxi Province. An original report by City Channel of CRI Online follows:

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20111118/CN09668 )

The people of the county have been growing tea for 2,200 years and have developed a deep and distinct tea culture. Tea is also the theme of many local art forms, including songs, dances and poems.

Xixiang, the largest tea growing county in Northwest China, today has tea gardens covering a total area of more than 150 square kilometers, producing 5,500 tons of tea a year, with annual output value of 650 million yuan ($102.4 million).

It has received a number of honors, such as national base of high-quality tea, China famous tea town and excellent government contribution for tea industry development.

As China's top eight teas, the Xianhao tea has won nationwide fame for its color, shape and taste.

The county government has been paying close attention to the local environment. Aiming at building the nation's most beautiful tea town, it has invested 500 million yuan to expand the industry chain, and improve tourism infrastructure.

The annual tea culture festival helped boost the local tourism brand featuring the tea garden ecology. With a number of activities, including tea plucking, processing and drinking, and tea ceremony shows, tourism has become the most dynamic and fastest-growing industry in Xixiang's economy.

The county welcomed more than 1 million tourists in the first half of this year, increasing 37 percent than the same period last year, and achieved revenue of 390 million yuan, up 89 percent.

SOURCE City Channel of CRI Online