Suoi Giang commune, Van Chan district, the northern province of Yen Bai lies ​on the height of nearly 1,400 metres. The area sees strong growth for one kind of ancient tea trees, particularly as they are suitable with the climate, land and water sources in the commune.

The ancient tea trees, growing naturally in the forests, are several hundreds of years old.

The trees have large and thick leaves, producing good tender buds. On the surface of the leaves is a thin layer of fuzz which looks like snow.

Harvesters have to climb to the high branches of the ancient trees to take young buds.

Harvested buds are then selected again to take out worm­ eaten or too old leaves.

Tea is dried by the experience and skillful hands of H’Mong ethnic minority people. Usually, it takes over 3 hours to dry a batch of tea over on fire.

The road leading cars to the ancient tea forests has made a positive change to the lives of local residents. Suoi Giang commune has recently become an interesting destination for tourists.

A kilogram of dried tea is sold at VND350,000 - VND2 million.

Photos: VnExpress ( Compiled by VNF )