China National Tea Museum
The China National Tea Museum is the world's largest tea museum, dedicated to preserving and showcasing China's 5,000-year tea culture. Located among the Longjing tea plantations, this comprehensive museum features exhibitions on tea history, cultivation, processing, and ceremonial traditions, with opportunities for visitors to participate in tea tastings and cultural activities.
Information
Ticket price
Time
Location
88 Longjing Rd, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
View maps
More about the trip
China National Tea Museum: A Deep Dive into Chinese Tea Culture
The China National Tea Museum is the world's largest tea museum, dedicated to preserving and showcasing China's 5,000-year tea culture. Located among the Longjing tea plantations in Hangzhou, this comprehensive museum features exhibitions on tea history, cultivation, processing, and ceremonial traditions, with opportunities for visitors to participate in tea tastings and cultural activities. It offers an immersive and educational experience for tea enthusiasts and anyone interested in this integral part of Chinese heritage.
What to See and Do
Tea History and Culture: Explore the various exhibition halls that trace the long history of tea in China, from its origins as a medicinal herb to its development as a beloved beverage and cultural symbol. Learn about different tea categories, famous teas, and tea-related customs.
Tea Cultivation and Processing: Understand the intricate processes of tea cultivation, harvesting, and processing. The museum often features models, tools, and interactive displays that illustrate these steps.
Tea Ceremonies: Witness or participate in traditional Chinese tea ceremonies, where you can learn about the etiquette, philosophy, and artistry of tea preparation and appreciation.
Tea Tasting: Sample various types of authentic Chinese teas, including the famous Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, and learn to distinguish their unique flavors and aromas.
Tea Ware Collection: Admire a collection of exquisite tea ware, including teapots, cups, and other utensils, from different historical periods and regions.
Surrounding Tea Plantations: The museum is set amidst beautiful tea plantations, offering a serene and picturesque environment for a leisurely stroll.
Best Time to Visit
The museum is an indoor attraction, making it suitable for visiting year-round. Spring (especially March and April) is ideal if you also want to see tea picking in the surrounding plantations. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends and public holidays.
How to Get There
The China National Tea Museum is located in Xihu District, Hangzhou, near the Longjing tea plantations. You can take various bus routes (e.g., 27, 87, 807) to China National Tea Museum Station (中国茶叶博物馆站). A taxi or ride-hailing service is also convenient.
Travel Tips
Allow ample time: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the museum thoroughly and participate in any activities.
Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing some walking around the museum and potentially in the tea fields.
Photography: The exhibits and the surrounding tea plantations offer good photo opportunities.
Purchase authentic tea: The museum shop is a reliable place to purchase high-quality Chinese teas.
Related attractions
Hangzhou City Balcony
A modern urban space offering panoramic views of the Qiantang River and the surrounding cityscape.
Xiaohe Straight Street
Xiaohezhi Street is a charming historical lane that preserves the authentic atmosphere of old Hangzhou. Running alongside a small canal in the city's traditional district, this narrow pedestrian street features well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, traditional teahouses, artisan workshops, and specialty shops, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into local daily life away from the more commercialized tourist areas.
Wushan Square Temple Fair
Wushan Square Temple Fair is a vibrant cultural event that revives ancient Chinese festival traditions in the heart of Hangzhou. Typically held during major holidays like Spring Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival, this lively gathering features traditional performances, folk art demonstrations, handicraft markets, and an abundance of local delicacies, creating a colorful celebration that showcases the region's intangible cultural heritage.
King Qian's Temple
King Qian's Temple is a historic shrine dedicated to Qian Liu, the founder of the Wuyue Kingdom during the Five Dynasties period. Located near West Lake, this well-preserved temple complex features traditional Chinese architecture, ornate decorations, and exhibits chronicling the achievements of the Qian dynasty, offering visitors insight into an important chapter of regional history and the cultural contributions of the Wuyue Kingdom.
Qiaoxi Historic District
Qiaoxi Historic District is a well-preserved area showcasing Hangzhou's traditional architecture and canal culture. Located west of Gongchen Bridge along the Grand Canal, this revitalized neighborhood features restored Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, waterfront promenades, and cultural venues, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's past as a thriving commercial hub while supporting contemporary arts, crafts, and culinary experiences.
