Longjing Tea Plantation

Longjing Tea Plantation: The Birthplace of China's Famous Green Tea

Longjing Tea Plantation is the birthplace of China's most famous green tea, Dragon Well (Longjing) tea. Nestled in the verdant hills southwest of West Lake in Hangzhou, these terraced plantations offer visitors the opportunity to learn about tea cultivation, witness the traditional tea-picking process, and participate in authentic tea ceremonies while enjoying the serene rural landscape. It's a must-visit for tea lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape into nature.

What to See and Do

1. Explore the Tea Terraces: Wander through the beautiful terraced tea fields that stretch across the hillsides. The lush green landscape is picturesque and offers a refreshing environment for a leisurely stroll.

2. Observe Tea Picking: If you visit during the tea picking season (typically spring, especially March-April), you might see tea pickers at work, meticulously plucking the tender tea leaves.

3. Learn About Tea Processing: Visit a local tea house or a small factory to learn about the traditional process of making Longjing tea, from pan-frying to shaping the leaves. You can often observe the process firsthand.

4. Participate in a Tea Ceremony: Experience an authentic Chinese tea ceremony, where you can taste freshly brewed Longjing tea and learn about the etiquette and philosophy of tea appreciation.

5. Purchase Authentic Longjing Tea: Buy high-quality Longjing tea directly from the source. Local tea houses and shops offer various grades of tea.

6. Enjoy the Rural Scenery: The area offers stunning views of the tea plantations, the surrounding hills, and glimpses of West Lake in the distance. It's a peaceful retreat from the city.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (especially March and April) is the best time to visit, as it's the tea picking season, and the weather is pleasant. Autumn also offers comfortable weather. The plantations are beautiful year-round.

How to Get There

Longjing Tea Plantation is located in Xihu District, Hangzhou, southwest of West Lake. You can take various bus routes (e.g., 27, 87, 807) to Longjing Village (龙井村站). A taxi or ride-hailing service is also convenient.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths in the tea fields.

• Sun protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for outdoor areas.

• Be prepared for a bit of a climb: The tea fields are terraced on hillsides.

• Bargain (sometimes): While tea prices are generally fixed in more reputable shops, smaller vendors might be open to bargaining.