Hangzhou tea country: tasting, villages and the real picking season

Introduction

Hangzhou, is home to some of the world’s most celebrated tea plantations. Among them, Longjing tea (Dragon Well tea) stands out as a symbol of Chinese tea culture. For foreign visitors, exploring Hangzhou’s tea gardens is an unforgettable experience that combines nature, tradition, and a deep dive into the art of tea-making. This guide takes you through everything you need to know to enjoy a hands-on tea-picking and tasting journey in Hangzhou.

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1. Why Hangzhou’s Longjing Tea Is World-Renowned

1.1 A Legacy of Excellence

Longjing tea has been cultivated in Hangzhou for over 1,200 years, earning its place as one of China’s most famous green teas. It’s prized for its delicate aroma, sweet aftertaste.

1.2 A Unique Microclimate

The tea gardens around West Lake benefit from a mild climate, misty mornings, and fertile soil, creating the perfect conditions for growing high-quality tea.

1.3 A Tea for Emperors

Longjing tea has a long association with imperial appreciation and Hangzhou’s tea culture; not all Longjing was produced exclusively for emperors.

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2. Top Tea Plantations to Visit in Hangzhou

2.1 Meijiawu Tea Village

• Overview: Known for its authentic tea-picking experiences, Meijiawu offers visitors a chance to explore the countryside and learn from local tea farmers.
• Highlights: Guided tea-picking tours, tea-tasting ceremonies, and scenic village walks.

2.2 Longjing Village

• Overview: The birthplace of Longjing tea, this village is nestled in the hills near West Lake and offers a traditional tea culture experience.
• Highlights: Meet tea masters, visit historical tea houses, and learn about the tea-making process.

2.3 Hangzhou Tea Museum

• Overview: Located near the tea gardens, this museum offers insights into the history and art of Chinese tea.
• Highlights: Interactive exhibits and guided tastings of various tea types.

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3. Hands-On Tea-Picking Experience

3.1 What to Expect

A typical tea-picking session includes:

1. Dressing in traditional tea-picking attire.
2. Learning the proper techniques to pick tender tea leaves.
3. Exploring the fields with a local guide who shares the history of the plantation.

3.2 Tips for Tea Picking

• Pick only the top two leaves and the bud for the best quality tea.
• Be gentle to avoid damaging the plant.
• Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, as the terrain can be uneven.

3.3 Seasonal Timing

Spring is the principal visitor tea-picking season, with exact dates depending on weather and the farm. “Mingqian” specifically means tea picked before Qingming; it does not describe all tea harvested from March through May.^[3]

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4. The Art of Longjing Tea Processing

4.1 Step-by-Step Process

1. Withering: Freshly picked leaves are spread out to remove moisture.
2. Pan-Firing: Leaves are hand-fried in large woks to stop oxidation and preserve their green color.
3. Shaping: Leaves are pressed and shaped into their signature flat appearance.
4. Drying: Final moisture is removed to ensure the tea’s longevity.

4.2 Why Hand-Firing Matters

Skilled tea artisans use hand-firing techniques to control heat and shape the leaves. Ask to see a demonstration; hand processing alone is not a guarantee of superior quality.

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5. Tea Tasting: Savoring the Essence of Longjing Tea

5.1 How to Brew Longjing Tea

1. Heat water to around 80°C (176°F) to prevent bitterness.
2. Add a teaspoon of tea leaves per cup.
3. Pour hot water and let steep for 2–3 minutes.

5.2 Tasting Notes

• Aroma: Grassy with hints of roasted chestnut.
• Flavor: Refreshing, sweet, and smooth with a lingering aftertaste.
• Appearance: Clear, light-green liquor.

5.3 Tea Etiquette

• Hold the cup with both hands as a sign of respect.
• Sip slowly to appreciate the nuanced flavors.

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6. Other Activities Around Hangzhou’s Tea Gardens

6.1 Strolling Through West Lake

Combine your tea experience with a leisurely walk or boat ride on the iconic West Lake.

6.2 Visiting Lingyin Temple

Explore this ancient Buddhist temple, located near many tea plantations.

6.3 Trying Local Cuisine

Enjoy dishes infused with tea, such as Longjing shrimp, a local specialty.

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7. Tips for Planning Your Tea Garden Visit

7.1 Transportation

• From Hangzhou City: Take a taxi or public bus to reach Meijiawu or Longjing Village.
• For a Hassle-Free Trip: Book a guided tour that includes transportation.

7.2 What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing and shoes.
• Reusable water bottle.
• A notebook to jot down tea-making tips.

7.3 Language Tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin or use a translation app to communicate with locals.

Longjing tea FAQs

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2.West Lake Hangzhou, Top Scenic Sites of Xihu Lake in Hangzhou (chinahighlights.com)