Visitors try their hands at tea frying at the Gengxiang Organic Tea Factory. [Photo/jinhua.com.cn]

The Gengxiang Organic Tea Factory in Wuyi county, Jinhua, Zhejiang province, welcomed 14 Turkish visitors on June 3 for a hands-on exploration of tea production and China's tea culture.

Surrounded by lush tea fields, the group learned tea-picking techniques under the guidance of staff. Villagers also shared their freshly picked peaches with them.

The visitors then toured the digitalized factory, observing automated processes — including withering, enzyme inactivation, and rolling — through glass walls, where smart temperature-control systems turned the green leaves into black.

In the experience section, participants learned about traditional tea-frying techniques from factory director Tang Zeqing. They also savored culinary delicacies made with tea, like stir-fried beef with fresh tea.

Before leaving, many bought tea products so they could bring a piece of China's tea heritage home to Turkiye.

"Unlike traditional tours, our boutique groups of under 20 members allow deep engagement in every step, from picking to brewing," said Liu Ruimin, office director of the factory.

Since March, the factory has hosted over 1,000 visits this year. Its "immersive study" model is becoming a favorite bridge for young people from abroad to connect with China's tea culture.