Su Lin
Master Tea Appraiser & Senior Travel Journalist
An award-winning travel writer born in Hangzhou, holding a rare National Level 1 Tea Appraiser certificate. Su Lin brings the poetic landscapes and refined flavors of the Jiangnan region to life through her critically acclaimed publications.
A native of the picturesque city of Hangzhou, Su Lin embodies the elegance and refinement traditionally associated with East China. She is recognized internationally not just as a Senior Travel Journalist, but as a National Level 1 Tea Appraiser—the highest official certification attainable in the Chinese tea industry. This unique qualification allows her to seamlessly weave the rich tapestry of East China’s tea culture—from the Longjing terraces of Zhejiang to the Wuyi rock teas of Fujian—into her broader narratives about regional tourism and gastronomy. Su Lin is also the author of Whispers of the Water Towns, a beautifully illustrated travelogue that documents the culinary micro-regions of the Yangtze River Delta, which spent several weeks on the regional bestseller lists.
In her capacity covering East China, Su Lin provides readers with highly curated, sensory-rich content. She is an expert on the delicate, sugar-kissed flavor profiles of Huaiyang and Shanghai cuisines, often guiding readers away from crowded Bund restaurants to discover hidden Michelin-starred gems and historic xiaolongbao (soup dumpling) shops in ancient water towns like Wuzhen and Suzhou. Her writing heavily emphasizes the philosophy of eating in harmony with the seasons, a core tenet of Eastern Chinese culinary tradition. Whether she is reviewing the spring bamboo shoots of Anhui, the hairy crabs of Yangcheng Lake in autumn, or the intricate seafood dishes of the Shandong coast, Su Lin’s prose is immersive and highly evocative. Her deep local roots and professional appraisal skills ensure that her guides are sophisticated, highly accurate, and deeply respectful of the artisanal craftsmanship that defines East China's culinary and scenic landscapes.
Articles by Su Lin (10)
- Macau must-see attractions: Hidden gems & local tips Jun 2026
- Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park: Insider Tips for a Perfect Visit Jun 2026
- Where to Stay Near Tiger Hill Suzhou: Best Areas & Hotels Jun 2026
- 5 Days in Sanya: Best Itinerary & Hidden Beaches Jun 2026
- Classic Sanya Itinerary: 5 Days of Sun, Sea & Seafood Jun 2026
- Best Sanya Itinerary: 5 Days of Tropical Paradise Without the Crowds Jun 2026
- Is Gulangyu Island worth visiting? Honest guide from a local guide Jun 2026
- Top 5 Attractions in Xiamen: Insider Tips for a Memorable Trip Jun 2026
- Xiamen Must-Visit Places: Top 7 Sights for First-Timers Jun 2026
- Where to Stay Near Canton Tower: Best Areas & Hotels May 2026