In Zhang's inn, a sommelier gives a lecture about tea whisking, a technique that prevailed during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). [Photo provided to China Daily]

Since dedicating herself to promoting tea culture, Zhang also feels a renewed sense of achievement. 

"The most prominent evidence is that, during my school days, I never received any awards, but having opened the inn with Jingshan tea at its heart, I have been granted multiple awards and honors, and the inn itself is prized as a municipal-level intangible cultural heritage featured inn," she adds.

"I truly feel that we're quite an excellent team, and this journey into tea has instilled a deep sense of confidence in me. I also acquired a deeper understanding of the richness of Chinese culture and the true meaning of cultural confidence."