Jennifer
Senior Travel Consultant
Vivian
Travel Consultant
Chanson
Travel Consualtant
Hangzhou is the birthplace of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, China's most celebrated green tea and a symbol of the city's rich cultural heritage. Nestled among misty tea plantations, this centuries-old tradition blends skilled craftsmanship, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic local customs. From hand-picked tea leaves to time-honored pan-firing techniques, every step reflects the artistry and spirit of Hangzhou's legendary tea culture. Join us as we explore the history, distinctive flavors, and unforgettable experiences that make Longjing tea an essential part of any visit to Hangzhou.
For more than 1,200 years, Hangzhou has been the home of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, China's most famous green tea. Surrounded by the scenic hills of West Lake, the city has developed a tea culture that combines history, craftsmanship, and breathtaking landscapes.
Tea cultivation began during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) and flourished in the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279 AD), when Hangzhou became China's political and cultural center as well as a major tea trading hub.
Hangzhou's tea heritage is also closely connected with Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty. During his visits to West Lake, he is said to have picked tea leaves at Shifeng Mountain and honored 18 ancient tea bushes as the Imperial Tea Garden, a historic site that can still be visited today.
In 2022, West Lake Longjing Tea Processing was recognized as part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage, reflecting the lasting value of Hangzhou's traditional tea-making techniques.
Today, West Lake Longjing Tea is celebrated for its flat, jade-green leaves, delicate chestnut aroma, fresh taste, and lingering sweetness. Whether you're exploring lush tea plantations, visiting traditional tea villages, or enjoying a freshly brewed cup by West Lake, Hangzhou offers an authentic journey into one of China's most treasured tea cultures.
Whether you're a tea enthusiast, photographer, or cultural explorer, Hangzhou's tea plantations offer unforgettable experiences. From the historic birthplace of Dragon Well Tea to peaceful tea valleys surrounded by mountains, each destination showcases a different side of Hangzhou's world-famous tea culture. Visitors can stroll through emerald-green terraces, watch traditional tea-making demonstrations, join tea-picking activities during spring harvest, and enjoy freshly brewed Longjing Tea in its place of origin.
If you'd like to discover more peaceful tea villages, local tea traditions, and hidden mountain retreats, check out our Hangzhou tea village guide.
Longjing Village is the original production area of authentic Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea and one of Hangzhou's most iconic tea destinations. Surrounded by rolling tea-covered hills, the village preserves centuries-old tea traditions and offers an authentic glimpse into local tea culture.
Highlights:
Authentic origin of West Lake Longjing Tea
Traditional tea houses serving freshly brewed tea
Tea-picking and hand-roasting experiences (seasonal)
Historic village atmosphere surrounded by tea terraces
Best Time to Visit:
Early April, when the first spring tea harvest begins.
Travel Tips:
Join a local tea workshop to learn traditional tea-making techniques, and take a leisurely walk through the village to appreciate its peaceful countryside scenery.
Located about 10 km (6 mi) west of West Lake, Meijiawu Tea Village is Hangzhou's largest and most popular tea-growing area. Wide tea terraces, charming village lanes, and numerous tea houses make it an excellent destination for first-time visitors.
Highlights:
Expansive terraced tea fields with picturesque landscapes
Tea-picking and traditional tea-processing demonstrations
Tea-tasting sessions hosted by local tea farmers
Easy access from downtown Hangzhou
Best Time to Visit:
March to May, during the spring harvest season.
Travel Tips:
Pair your visit with local specialties such as osmanthus cakes or Hangzhou-style snacks while enjoying freshly brewed Longjing Tea.
Located on Hangzhou's western outskirts, Longwu Tea Town is a quieter alternative to the city's more famous tea villages. Combining traditional tea production with modern visitor facilities, it's ideal for families and travelers seeking a relaxing countryside experience.
Highlights:
Extensive Longjing tea plantations
Tea culture exhibitions and visitor center
Tea-making workshops and tasting experiences
Beautiful mountain and countryside scenery
Best Time to Visit:
Late March to May, when the tea fields are at their greenest.
Travel Tips:
Take a short hike around the surrounding hills for panoramic views before relaxing with a cup of freshly brewed Longjing Tea.
For visitors looking beyond traditional tea villages, Manjuelong and Hupao Valley offer a unique combination of tea culture, natural beauty, and local heritage.
Manjuelong Village
Known as the "Osmanthus Village," Manjuelong is especially beautiful in autumn when thousands of osmanthus trees bloom. The fragrance of osmanthus blends with the aroma of Longjing Tea, creating one of Hangzhou's most charming seasonal experiences.
Highlights:
Osmanthus blossoms in September and October
Tea houses serving osmanthus-infused Longjing Tea
Quiet walking trails through tea fields and villages
Hupao Valley (Running Tiger Spring)
Hupao Spring is renowned as one of Hangzhou's most famous natural springs and is traditionally considered the best water for brewing Longjing Tea. Together, Hupao Spring and Longjing Tea are celebrated as the "Twin Wonders of West Lake."
Highlights:
Famous natural spring with crystal-clear water
Traditional tea-brewing experience using spring water
Peaceful gardens and cultural attractions
Less crowded than the main tea villages
Travel Tips:
Bring an empty bottle if you'd like to collect spring water and experience brewing Longjing Tea with its legendary companion.
Every spring, Hangzhou's emerald tea terraces come alive as farmers begin harvesting the city's world-famous Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea. Walking through mist-covered tea hills, watching skilled tea masters hand-roast freshly picked leaves, and tasting the season's first brew is one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Hangzhou. Whether you're a tea lover or simply looking for beautiful countryside scenery, tea picking season is the perfect time to visit.
Late March to Mid-May: Tea plantations turn vibrant green as the annual harvest begins.
Early April: The prized Pre-Qingming Tea (Mingqian Tea) is harvested before the Qingming Festival and is celebrated for its delicate aroma, fresh taste, and exceptional quality.
Morning Hours: Visit early in the day to enjoy cooler weather, soft light for photography, and the chance to see farmers picking tea leaves.
Tea Picking: Join local farmers and learn how to hand-pick the youngest, most tender tea leaves.
Traditional Tea Processing: Watch experienced tea masters roast and shape fresh leaves by hand using techniques passed down for generations.
Tea Tasting: Sample freshly brewed Longjing Tea and discover how harvest time influences its flavor and aroma.
Countryside Scenery: Wander through rolling tea terraces, bamboo groves, and misty hills that create some of Hangzhou's most picturesque landscapes.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and a hat, as many tea plantations are built on gentle hillsides.
Ask for permission before taking close-up photos of local tea farmers at work.
Join a tea workshop to experience the complete "pick, roast, and brew" process.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as West Lake, Longjing Village, or Hupao Spring for a full day of cultural exploration.
Tea picking season offers the freshest Longjing Tea of the year and a rare opportunity to experience one of China's oldest tea traditions firsthand. Beyond tasting exceptional tea, you'll gain a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship, heritage, and natural beauty that have made Hangzhou one of China's most celebrated tea destinations for over a thousand years.
Hangzhou is famous for West Lake Longjing Tea (Dragon Well Tea), one of China's most celebrated green teas. Known for its flat jade-green leaves, delicate chestnut aroma, and fresh, mellow taste, Longjing Tea has been produced in Hangzhou for over 1,200 years and remains the city's most iconic specialty.
Tea Grades
Mingqian Tea (Pre-Qingming Tea): Harvested before the Qingming Festival, this is the highest-quality Longjing Tea with a delicate flavor and limited production.
Yuqian Tea (Pre-Grain Rain Tea): Picked before the Grain Rain season, it offers excellent quality at a more affordable price.
Spring Tea: Fresh, fragrant, and the most popular choice among visitors.
Autumn Tea: Milder in flavor and ideal for everyday drinking.
Cultural Highlight
When visiting Longjing Village, don't miss the famous Eighteen Imperial Tea Trees, which are closely linked to Emperor Qianlong and the long history of Longjing Tea.
Besides Longjing Tea, Hangzhou also produces several excellent local teas.
Jiuqu Hongmei Tea: A fragrant black tea with a naturally sweet and mellow flavor.
Tianmu Qingding Tea: A refreshing green tea grown in the Tianmu Mountains.
Qiandao Yinzhen Tea: A light and delicate green tea from the Qiandao Lake area.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a tea enthusiast, sampling these local teas is a great way to experience Hangzhou's rich tea culture.
A tea-picking experience in Hangzhou is much more than harvesting fresh leaves—it's a journey into the centuries-old traditions behind world-famous Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea. From picking tender spring buds to hand-roasting them in a traditional wok and finally brewing your own cup, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for one of China's most treasured cultural traditions.
Begin your experience in the scenic tea terraces of Longjing Village or Meijiawu Tea Village, where local tea farmers harvest the season's youngest leaves each spring.
What You'll Experience:
Learn how to identify the prized "one bud with two leaves" used for premium Longjing Tea.
Pick fresh tea leaves under the guidance of experienced local farmers.
Stroll through lush tea plantations while enjoying panoramic views of Hangzhou's countryside.
Capture memorable photos of rolling green hills and traditional tea villages.
Freshly picked tea leaves must be processed quickly to preserve their color, fragrance, and flavor. During this workshop, experienced tea masters demonstrate the traditional hand-roasting technique that gives Longjing Tea its signature appearance and taste.
Highlights:
Watch the complete pan-frying process using traditional woks.
Try gently roasting the leaves yourself under expert guidance.
Discover how temperature, timing, and hand movements influence the tea's final flavor.
The experience concludes with brewing the tea you've helped create. Guided by local tea experts, you'll learn the proper way to prepare Longjing Tea and appreciate its fresh aroma, smooth taste, and lingering sweetness.
What You'll Learn:
Traditional Longjing Tea brewing techniques.
How water temperature affects flavor.
Tea etiquette and the cultural significance of tea in Hangzhou.
A tea-picking experience offers one of the most authentic ways to discover Hangzhou's tea culture. Rather than simply tasting tea, you'll participate in every stage of its journey—from leaf to cup—while learning directly from local tea farmers and tea masters.
Highlights:
Authentic hands-on tea picking and roasting
Beautiful tea terraces and spring countryside scenery
Insight into traditional Longjing Tea craftsmanship
A memorable cultural experience suitable for families, couples, and tea lovers
Visit between late March and early April for the freshest spring harvest.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as tea plantations are located on gentle hillsides.
Many tea villages offer half-day experiences that include tea picking, roasting, brewing, and tea tasting.
Booking a guided tour is recommended if you'd like transportation, English-speaking guides, and a more in-depth introduction to Hangzhou's tea culture.
Enjoying a cup of Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea is one of the best ways to experience Hangzhou's relaxed lifestyle. Whether you're visiting a traditional tea house or a tea plantation, these simple tips will help you appreciate this famous local tea.
Choose the Right Tea
For the most authentic experience, order West Lake Longjing Tea, Hangzhou's signature green tea. Fresh spring tea is prized for its delicate aroma, smooth taste, and lingering sweetness.
Brew It Properly
Longjing Tea is best brewed with water at 80–85°C (176–185°F) rather than boiling water, which can make the tea taste bitter. Use a glass or porcelain cup to watch the flat green leaves slowly unfold.
Enjoy Every Sip
Take a moment to appreciate the tea's clear yellow-green color and delicate chestnut aroma before drinking. Sip slowly to enjoy its fresh, mellow flavor and naturally sweet finish.
Tea Etiquette
Tea drinking in Hangzhou is a relaxed and social tradition. If someone pours tea for you, a gentle tap of two fingers on the table is a traditional way to say "thank you" without words.
Local Tip
For an unforgettable experience, enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Longjing Tea at a tea house or plantation overlooking the tea fields. The combination of beautiful scenery and authentic local tea is one of Hangzhou's most memorable experiences.
As the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279), Hangzhou was the center of one of China's most refined tea traditions—Diancha, or whisked tea. More than simply drinking tea, Diancha was a cultural ritual enjoyed by emperors, scholars, monks, and artists. Today, it is widely regarded as the historical predecessor of modern matcha and the Japanese tea ceremony.
Unlike loose-leaf tea, Diancha is prepared by whisking finely ground tea powder with hot water using a bamboo whisk. The goal is to create a smooth layer of rich foam, resulting in a delicate flavor and elegant presentation.
Diancha flourished after the Southern Song court established its capital in Hangzhou. Tea culture became part of daily life, with tea houses throughout the city and tea ceremonies enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
One of the most influential traditions is the Jingshan Tea Banquet, which originated at Jingshan Temple near Hangzhou. This ceremony later influenced the development of the Japanese tea ceremony and remains an important part of Hangzhou's tea heritage today.
During the Song Dynasty, tea appreciation became both a social activity and an art form.
Doucha (Tea Competition): Participants compared the color, aroma, and quality of their whisked tea.
Fencha (Tea Art): Skilled tea masters created delicate patterns and paintings on the tea foam, similar to modern latte art.
Experiencing Diancha offers a fascinating glimpse into Hangzhou's Song Dynasty culture. Whether you join a traditional tea ceremony or watch a live Diancha demonstration, you'll discover the elegance, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage behind one of China's oldest tea traditions.
For people in Hangzhou, tea is much more than a drink—it's part of everyday life. Whether at home, in a traditional tea house, or beside West Lake, enjoying a cup of Longjing Tea is a daily ritual that reflects the city's relaxed pace and elegant lifestyle.
Tea Is Part of Everyday Life
Many locals start their day with a cup of freshly brewed Longjing Tea. Throughout the day, friends and family gather over tea to chat, relax, or simply enjoy a quiet moment together. Rather than rushing, tea encourages people to slow down and appreciate the present.
A Favorite Afternoon Tradition
Afternoon is one of the best times to experience Hangzhou's tea culture. Local tea houses near West Lake and in the surrounding tea villages fill with visitors enjoying Longjing Tea alongside traditional snacks while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Tea and Hospitality
Serving tea is an important part of welcoming guests in Hangzhou. A pot of freshly brewed Longjing Tea is often shared with family and friends, symbolizing warmth, respect, and hospitality.
Experience Tea Like a Local
To experience Hangzhou like a local, visit a traditional tea house, order a pot of Longjing Tea, and spend an hour enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It's one of the simplest and most authentic ways to discover the city's unique lifestyle and tea culture.
Want to visit Hangzhou's tea villages in person? Explore our private tea village tour for a deeper local experience.
Bringing home a box of West Lake Longjing Tea (Dragon Well Tea) is one of the most popular souvenirs from Hangzhou. However, with many tea shops and different price ranges available, knowing where to buy authentic tea can make your experience much easier.
1. Longjing Village & Meijiawu Tea Village
Buying tea directly from local tea villages is one of the best ways to experience Hangzhou's tea culture. Visitors can taste different varieties, learn about tea production, and purchase seasonal Longjing Tea from local growers.
Tips: Choose established tea houses or family-run shops, and avoid overly aggressive sales offers at tourist entrances.
2. Traditional Tea Shops
Well-known local tea brands and long-established tea shops in downtown Hangzhou offer a wide selection of Longjing Tea with clear pricing and professional service.
When buying West Lake Longjing Tea, look for these signs:
Appearance
Authentic Longjing Tea has flat, smooth leaves with a fresh jade-green color.
Avoid tea with overly bright colors, uneven leaves, or a dull appearance.
Aroma & Taste
High-quality Longjing Tea has a fresh chestnut or orchid-like aroma, a smooth taste, and a pleasant sweet aftertaste.
Good tea leaves usually remain flavorful after several infusions.
Origin Certification
Genuine West Lake Longjing Tea comes from the designated West Lake tea-growing area and carries official origin certification.
Price Guide
Premium Mingqian Longjing Tea (harvested before Qingming Festival) is the most expensive due to its limited production.
Yuqian Longjing Tea offers excellent quality at a more accessible price and is a popular choice for visitors.
For the best experience, combine tea shopping with a visit to a tea plantation. Walking through the green hills, tasting fresh Longjing Tea, and meeting local tea farmers makes buying tea in Hangzhou much more memorable.
In Hangzhou, tea is more than a drink—it is part of the local food culture. Known as “Chi Cha” (吃茶), or “eating tea,” this tradition combines the fresh aroma of West Lake Longjing Tea (Dragon Well Tea) with local dishes and snacks. From savory meals to sweet treats, tea adds a unique fragrance and flavor to Hangzhou cuisine.
Longjing Shrimp (龙井虾仁)
One of Hangzhou's most iconic dishes, Longjing Shrimp combines fresh river shrimp with tender Longjing tea leaves. The delicate tea aroma enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a refreshing and elegant flavor. It is especially popular during the spring tea season.
Longjing Braised Pork Belly (龙井扣肉)
A creative twist on a classic Hangzhou dish, Longjing Tea is added during the cooking process to balance the richness of the pork. The tea gives the dish a subtle fragrance while creating a smoother, lighter taste.
Tea-Smoked Fish (茶熏鱼)
Inspired by the flavors of West Lake, this dish uses tea leaves during the smoking process to create a delicate smoky aroma. The fish is tender inside with a slightly sweet and savory flavor.
Jingshan Tea Banquet (径山茶宴)
Originating from Jingshan Temple near Hangzhou, this traditional tea banquet combines tea, food, and elegant rituals. Recognized as an important part of Hangzhou's tea heritage, it offers visitors a unique way to experience the connection between tea, cuisine, and Zen culture.
Longjing Tea Cake (龙井茶糕)
A popular Hangzhou snack made with rice flour and Longjing Tea. It has a soft texture, light sweetness, and a subtle tea fragrance, making it a popular gift for visitors.
Osmanthus & Longjing Rice Cake (桂花龙井糕)
Combining two famous Hangzhou flavors—osmanthus and Longjing Tea—this dessert offers a sweet floral aroma with a refreshing tea finish.
Tea-Flavored Mung Bean Cake (绿豆糕)
A traditional Jiangnan pastry with a smooth texture and mild tea flavor. It is a light snack that pairs well with a cup of Longjing Tea.
Tea Cookies & Crisps (茶酥 / 茶饼)
Easy to carry and popular among travelers, these tea-flavored snacks are great souvenirs and perfect for enjoying during a walk around West Lake.
From casual local tea stalls to elegant lakeside retreats, Hangzhou offers tea experiences for every budget. Whether you want to enjoy authentic Longjing tea with locals, relax by West Lake, or experience a traditional tea ceremony in a peaceful garden, these handpicked teahouses showcase the best of Hangzhou's tea culture.
For more recommendations on where to enjoy tea in Hangzhou, explore our guide to the best tea houses in Hangzhou.
Wushan Tea Stall (吴山大碗茶)
Location: Wushan Square, Shangcheng District (near Chenghuang Pavilion)
Hours: 7:00–17:00 daily
A simple yet authentic way to experience old Hangzhou tea culture. This traditional outdoor tea stall serves basic Longjing or green tea with unlimited hot water refills. Sit under the trees, enjoy a relaxed local atmosphere, and try popular snacks such as Pian Er Chuan noodles and wontons.
Thursday Late · New Chinese Tea (周四晚?不止碰到茶)
Location: 57 Xueshi Road (near Hubin Intime and Longxiangqiao Metro Station)
Hours: 10:00–22:30
A modern Chinese-style teahouse featuring a bright wooden interior and a relaxed atmosphere. Its affordable aged white tea and traditional snacks make it a stylish stop for a quick tea break in central Hangzhou.
West Lake Public Tea Seats (西湖便民茶座)
Location: Liulang Wenying, Su Causeway, Changqiao Park
Hours: 9:00–18:00 (seasonal)
Located beside West Lake, these open-air tea seats offer one of the most affordable ways to enjoy Hangzhou scenery with a cup of tea. It is perfect for resting during a West Lake walk while taking in views of the lake and mountains.
Qingteng Teahouse (青藤茶馆)
Location: 189 Nanshan Road (near West Lake)
Hours: 9:30–17:00, 17:30–2:00
A popular Hangzhou teahouse brand known for its elegant environment and comfortable setting. Guests can enjoy tea with fruits, pastries, local dishes, and traditional snacks, making it a good choice for a longer tea break.
Taiji Tea Ceremony House (太极茶道苑)
Location: Hefang Street (near Drum Tower)
Hours: 10:00–22:00
Located on historic Hefang Street, this traditional teahouse offers tea ceremony performances, long-spout tea pouring shows, a wide tea selection, and delicate Chinese snacks for a deeper cultural experience.
Conglai · Canal Yard (从来运河院子)
Location: 68 Qiaoxi Straight Street (near Gongchen Bridge)
Hours: 10:00–22:00
Combining modern Chinese design with Grand Canal scenery, this teahouse features canal-view seating, cold-brew Longjing tea, and creative tea desserts in a stylish setting.
Fuquan Tea Yard (福泉茶院)
Location: Inside Yongfu Temple, Lingyin Scenic Area
Hours: 9:00–17:30
Hidden among the mountains near Lingyin Temple, Fuquan Tea Yard offers a peaceful Zen atmosphere with private pavilions, premium Longjing tea, and elegant vegetarian snacks.
Fenyang Teahouse at Guo Manor (汾阳茶馆)
Location: Guo Manor, 15 Yanggong Causeway
Hours: 9:30–18:00
Set inside a classical Jiangnan garden, this quiet teahouse provides a refined tea experience surrounded by traditional architecture, beautiful scenery, and fewer tourists.
Thirteen Rooms Tea (十三间楼·茶)
Location: 27 Beishan Street (near Broken Bridge)
Hours: 10:00–18:30
With a prime West Lake location, this stylish teahouse features terrace seating with panoramic lake views. It is ideal for travelers looking for premium tea, beautiful scenery, and attentive service.
Hupanju Teahouse (湖畔居茶楼)
Location: Shengtang Scenic Area (near Liugong Park)
Hours: 9:30–24:00
One of Hangzhou's most famous luxury teahouses, Hupanju is known for its exceptional West Lake views, high-quality Longjing tea brewed with Tiger Spring water, and elegant tea snacks.
Duibai Tea House (对白茶舍)
Location: 256-1 Manjuelong Road (tea hill area)
Hours: 10:00–23:00
Located among Hangzhou's tea plantations, Duibai Tea House offers a peaceful hillside escape surrounded by tea gardens and osmanthus trees. Its private courtyards create an ideal setting for slow relaxation.
Fu Yun Tang Tea House (浮云堂茶书院)
Location: Zijiujing Cottage, Santan Road (near Yuhu Bay)
Hours: 10:00–18:00 daily
A serene lakeside tea house combining traditional architecture, mountain-and-water views, and classic tea ceremonies. With private tatami rooms, premium teas, and handmade snacks, it is perfect for travelers seeking a quiet cultural experience.
Best Time to Visit: March–April is the best season for fresh Longjing tea and spring scenery. September–November offers cooler weather with beautiful osmanthus fragrance and a relaxing tea atmosphere.
Language: Most tea farmers and teahouse staff speak limited English. A translation app like WeChat Translate can be helpful.
Payment: Carry some RMB cash for small tea shops and tea farms. Larger teahouses usually accept WeChat Pay, Alipay, and credit cards.
Tea Etiquette: Avoid stepping on tea plants when visiting tea fields. During tea tasting, take small sips and enjoy the tea slowly.
Tea Tours: Choose reputable tea tours and look for "no shopping" options to avoid unnecessary shopping stops.
Hangzhou tea culture is more than just a drink—it is a way to experience the city's history, nature, and local lifestyle. From exploring the fascinating history of Longjing tea and visiting the scenic tea plantations in Hangzhou to enjoying a traditional tea ceremony experience, travelers can discover how tea has shaped the identity of this famous tea city. Whether you sip authentic Longjing tea by West Lake, wander through peaceful tea villages, or relax in a local teahouse, you will experience the unique charm of Hangzhou's tea culture.
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Jennifer
Senior Travel Consultant
Vivian
Travel Consultant
Chanson
Travel Consualtant
>12 years old
2~11 years old
