A recent event titled “A Cup of Matcha, a Millennium of Song Dynasty” showcased the intelligent preservation of the cultural heritage Diancha technique (tea whisking). Held at Deshou Palace ruins - a Southern Song Dynasty imperial gardens - the event created a dialogue between the ancient tea culture and modern AI technology, offering a fresh model for innovating traditional cultural practices.
The event kicked off with a folk-style “Jingshan Tea Ceremony,” where guests were welcomed with a full set of traditional rituals reviving the grace and ambience of Song literati. A highlight was the “Human vs. Machine Diancha Challenge,” pitting a heritage bearer against a smart tea maker. The two cups of tea prepared - one evoking “Pine Wind and Crab Eyes” (referring to the bubbles formed during whisking), the other resembling “Stacked Snow in Clouds” - vividly illustrated the harmony between technology and human artistry.
The centerpiece was the debut of the Jingshan Smart Matcha Maker, co-developed by Hangzhou Jingshan Tea Development Co., Ltd. and Wanshida (Hangzhou) Coffee Machine Co., Ltd. Recently certified as a “First-in-Zhejiang” innovation, the machine uses AI to accurately replicate the historic “Seven-Pour Whisking Method.” It automates the entire process - from water temperature and whisking intensity to foam consistency - preserving the classic “foam like snow and milk” aesthetic while saving time and effort.
“Our goal aligns with the ‘Three Upgrades’ strategy: enriching varieties, improving quality, and building brands,” said Shi Hongxin, Chairman of Jingshan Tea Development. “We’ve already partnered with several tea beverage brands, and a home version offering ‘one-touch matcha’ is in the works - making this millennium-old heritage accessible to all.”
The event also unveiled several photo spots, along with specific plaques presented to some inaugural tea culture attractions including Deshou Palace, Zhiyi Pavilion, and Hupanju Tea-house. Each will be equipped with a Jingshan Smart Matcha Maker, allowing the public to immerse themselves in preparing matcha and savoring the aesthetic elegance of the Song Dynasty.