Wuyishan Yulin Kiln Site

　　The Wuyishan Yulin Kiln Site is a branch of the Jian Kiln, one of the eight renowned kilns of the Song Dynasty. Around 900 years ago, it became world-famous for producing black-glazed tea bowls decorated with gold and silver inlays, making it an important component of Wuyishan’s 1999 nomination for UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage status. Since the Song Dynasty, China has valued tea ware with the aesthetic principle that “white tea demands black cups.” During that time, the culture of tea competitions flourished among both court officials and commoners, and the finest black-glazed bowls became treasures sought after by royalty at great expense. These exceptional pieces were even listed as tributes to the imperial court and hailed as national treasures.

　　The Wuyishan Yulin Pavilion once embodied the vibrancy of China’s dragon kiln traditions and forged the glorious legacy of Song Dynasty ceramics that stunned the world. In December 1999, the kiln site was included in the Wuyishan UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage list. In front of the hall, a small bridge spans gently flowing water, while the sheltered structures beside the hall over two remaining kilns resemble two dragons rising along the mountain, or perhaps two winding corridors for serene mountain treks. Established during the Song Dynasty and with a history of over 800 years, this site is the best-preserved ancient porcelain kiln workshop in the country. Its celadon products such as bowls, plates, cups, and pots—renowned for their exquisite shapes and vibrant glaze colors—were sold nationwide and exported to Europe, America, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, and other regions. They were especially favored by the people of Japan. At the site, dozens of black-glazed bowls with traces of gold and silver painted designs have been discovered. These feature landscapes, birds and flowers, as well as auspicious inscriptions. Unique and extremely valuable, they are celebrated as “Pearl-Glaze Celadon” and have earned widespread fame.

　　Source: People’s Government of Nanping City