Coffee in Yunnan: Baoshan’s Small Coffee Plantations
I like to drink coffee but I would not name myself an expert. Which is why it took me years after living in China, that I realized there are actual coffee plantations in my country of residence. Yunnan Province, the south west to be exact.
While the province is famous for its tea culture, especially around Pu’Er, regions like Baoshan have quietly cultivated a reputation for high-quality coffee production. Unlike mass-producing coffee giants like Brazil, which was a name dropped in many interactions we had.
Yunnan Coffee Farmers focuses on new flavors and bean variety. Mostly small-scale experimentation, and high-end specialty coffee.
Lujiang: Small Center of Baoshan’s Coffee Culture
Our journey took us through Lujiang, the largest town in the region, though still relatively small and lesser-known, especially for tourism. Meaning less hotels, less taxis but more peace and a fascinating coffee-producing community.
We visited several coffee plantations and businesses in between Baoshan and Tengchong.
Big Players First
Our first stop was Gaosheng a well-established coffee company, which turned out to be one of the larger players in the area. While we expected to see coffee plants up close, the location primarily served as a warehouse and office.
Despite this, the quality of their coffee was undeniable. Though the price reflected its premium status. They told us their plantations are spread around the hillsides nearby, but of course did not tell us exactly where.
It wasn’t quite the immersive farm experience we had hoped for, but it set a high benchmark for flavor and quality. The fruity smell of raspberries was surprising for an amateur like I am. Did not knew coffee could taste great without milk and sugar.
The Social Media Spot
Next, we took a shared e-bike up into the mountains to visit another coffee business. Yes, your heard that right! Shared e-bikes that can be opened by App and ride up to 25km/h. Well theoretically, as we rode uphill.
The location was stunning, housed in a beautiful brick stone building with breathtaking views from their café. However, like the first stop, they did not grow their coffee beans on-site. Gladly we got a explanation from them, which was simply the altitude.
While the coffee itself was enjoyable, it did not quite match the high standards set by the previous location. That said, it was much more affordable, so we choose two packs as gifts for my parents.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly yet scenic coffee experience, and great social media pictures, this is your spot. Also I need to mention that they had at least 20 different variations and you might have better luck choosing.
The Tourist Spot
Our third stop finally brought us closer to the experience we were seeking. Beaton Coffee Plantation had coffee trees growing right next to their office and restaurant, allowing visitors to get a direct look at the production process.
This included the drying process of their beans on the parking spot. It was really cool to see the different drying times right in front of us.
The plantation had a visitor center, a beautiful garden, a café, and a restaurant. It was definitely the most informative of all the places we visited.
For those looking for an special stay, they even offered small wooden cabins in between the coffee trees.
Their coffee, including certified organic varieties, was of very tasty and the first one that offered more arabica beans. They do seem to cater to a more broad audience.
Bird Nest Dou Dou Coffee Estate
Our final discovery was purely accidental. We went up the Baihualing Mountain with the plan to enter a nature reservoir. A national park with natural hot springs.
Turns out you need a permit to enter. Chinese can do it through an App but foreigners need to get an permit from Baoshan city tourism office, which I did not had.
My wife went inside and I, heartbroken walk down the road and surrounding villages.
To my luck I found a small, family-run coffee plantation owned by a family from Gansu province. Unlike the larger operations, this micro-farm produces only about 50kg of beans per variety, making each batch incredibly special. They grow multiple types of beans, experimenting with different processing methods to enhance flavors.
The owner was incredibly welcoming, personally showing me around the plantation and sharing insights about the region’s coffee-growing techniques.
If you ever find yourself in the area, Bird Nest Dou Dou Coffee Estate (鸟窝多多咖啡庄园) is a must-visit for coffee lovers seeking authenticity and innovation.
Two standout offerings from their farm were:
- Geisha Bean: A beautifully fruity and aromatic coffee, highlighting the delicate complexity Geisha beans are known for.
- Catimor Bean: Sun-dried with mandarin peels, giving the coffee a subtle citrus note that made it an unforgettable experience. I bought 500g and do enjoy a cup while writing this.
Conclusion: A Coffee Lover’s Hidden Paradise
Yunnan’s coffee industry may still be young compared to global coffee powerhouses, but its emphasis on quality, experimentation, and great flavors makes it a fascinating destination for coffee enthusiasts. But not for coffee lovers only. The area has great mountains, small villages with friendly people and even natural hot spring in the mountains.
