Discover the Growing Coffee Culture in Gui'an's Countryside

In the heart of Guizhou, the Guian New Area is emerging as a hub for innovative coffee culture, blending urban vibes with the tranquility of rural life. With coffee beans now being grown beneath phoenix trees and in unique settings, a new chapter of coffee exploration is underway.

The appeal of rural coffee culture is increasingly captivating the younger generation, with locals returning to build connections between rural and urban environments. In late 2022, a group of seven young entrepreneurs from the Dangwu Subdistrict formed a 'hometown talent squad' to create a coffee shop named Qiushan, inspired by a line from the ancient poet Tao Yuanming. This endeavor embodies their affection for nature and the community, as explained by Qin Li, a member of this dynamic team. "We aimed to connect city life with the distinctive allure of our countryside, utilizing our diverse skills in planning, design, and coffee making," she shared.

Qiushan opened its doors to offer a unique fusion of coffee culture. With two locations, including one nestled under the trees and another set in a Moroccan-inspired courtyard, these coffee spots reflect a blend of rustic charm and urban comfort. The cafes not only serve beverages but also promote a sense of community among villagers, striving to make coffee a staple of daily life.

Qin Li dreams of introducing coffee as a beloved communal beverage in their village. Featuring mindful brewing practices, the team values sharing the stories behind each cup, giving customers a chance to embrace the flavors with insights into their origins. As they continue to enhance their offerings, plans for utilizing livestreams to showcase local products and organizing community events at Qiushan are on the horizon, aiming to foster local engagement.

In another corner of Gui'an, Dr. Huo Honghao is pursuing a larger vision of coffee cultivation. His enthusiasm for coffee transcends his passion for drinking it; he dreams of establishing a coffee estate where people can immerse themselves in the coffee-growing experience. After falling in love with the scenic beauty of Chetian Village, he transformed an abandoned farmhouse into a haven aptly named Doctor's Coffee. With a Ph.D. in botany under his belt, he approaches coffee brewing with a scientific perspective, introducing advanced techniques to enhance flavor.

Dr. Huo has begun to plant coffee trees in Gui'an for the very first time, aiming to fill the void in coffee cultivation within the region. His shop serves not just as a cafe but a living lab where he experiments with various types of beans and roasts. Aspiring to discover a flavor profile that captures the essence of Guiyang, he hopes to connect locals with the experience of harvesting coffee cherries through collaborations with neighboring farms, and establish a coffee-centric economy.

Through these initiatives, the coffee shops of Gui'an are doing more than just serving drinks; they are revitalizing rural life, nurturing local talent, and creating a spirited community. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the essence of the land itself, symbolizing hope for a vibrant future. Here, individuals can find a cup of coffee that truly resonates with their tastes, bridging the gap between the urban hustle and rural serenity.