The craft was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2022.

"The ceremony has many detailed requirements for preparing, brewing and serving tea. The atmosphere, including the fragrance of the room and music, is also important. It is about Chaozhou aesthetics," says Long.

Here, gongfu tea has become a way of social intercourse. "In Chaozhou, a special bond forms once people have enjoyed a cup of gongfu tea together. This helps enhance solidarity and has become an important part of Chaozhou culture," says Long.

Yang Lurong and Kong Wenzheng contributed to this story.

Contact the writers at wangru1@chinadaily.com.cn