The Complete Guide to Chinese Black Tea Origins

If you're into tea—especially black tea—you've probably heard of Chinese varieties like Keemun, Dianhong, and Lapsang Souchong. But where do they *really* come from, and what makes each one special? As a tea blogger who’s traveled through Yunnan, Anhui, and Fujian, I’ve tasted hundreds of brews and dug deep into terroir, processing, and tradition. Let me break it down for you.

China is the birthplace of tea, and its black teas (called hong cha, or 'red tea' in Chinese) are some of the most complex and sought-after in the world. Unlike mass-produced CTC teas, authentic Chinese black teas are often handcrafted, with flavor profiles shaped by altitude, soil, and artisan techniques.

Let’s look at three major regions producing legendary black teas:

Anhui – Home of Keemun (Qimen)

Keemun black tea, originating in Qimen County, has been famous since the late 1800s. It's known for its winey, smoky aroma and subtle floral notes. In fact, high-grade Keemun was once a key ingredient in classic English Breakfast blends.

Yunnan – Birthplace of Bold Dianhong

Dianhong, from Yunnan province, stands out with its golden tips and malty sweetness. Made primarily from the large-leaf Camellia sinensis var. assamica, it’s robust and often used as a base for flavored teas. But premium loose-leaf Dianhong? Smooth, honey-like, and unforgettable.

Fujian – Creator of Lapsang Souchong

Lapsang Souchong (Zhengshan Xiaozhong) is arguably the oldest black tea. Smoked over pine wood, it delivers an intense campfire aroma. Authentic versions come from the Tongmu Village in the Wuyi Mountains—true origin matters.

How Regions Compare: Flavor & Production

As you can see, Yunnan produces the most, but Fujian’s authentic Lapsang Souchong is rarer due to strict geographical protection. That’s why real Tongmu-grown tea can cost $50+ per 100g.

Here’s a pro tip: when buying, check for origin transparency. Many ‘Lapsang’ teas today are artificially smoked and made outside Fujian—lacking depth and authenticity.

Bottom line? Whether you’re sipping a floral Keemun at breakfast or unwinding with a smoky Lapsang after dinner, knowing the origin transforms your cup from ordinary to extraordinary.