7 Discover the Timeless Elegance of Hangzhou West Lake Longjing Tea

Your Ultimate Guide to China’s Legendary Green Tea

Located in the enchanting, mist-engulfed hills that envelope the picturesque West Lake in Hangzhou, Longjing Tea (西湖龙井茶) is truly a notable jewel within the rich fabric of Chinese tea culture. This tea, praised for its vibrant emerald colour, bewitching floral fragrance, and smooth, mellow sweetness, has earned its place as a UNESCO-acknowledged masterpiece. For over 1,200 years, Longjing Tea has been a source of fascination and admiration for emperors, esteemed poets, and adventurous travellers alike. Those who are keen to experience an authentic flavour of China’s vast heritage will find that a journey to the origins of Longjing Tea offers far more than just a taste of history; it provides a profound opportunity to engage with the tranquil landscapes and enduring traditions that have been treasured for generations.

The Legacy of Longjing Tea: A Beverage Worthy of Emperors

The captivating tale of Longjing Tea, often referred to as Dragon Well tea, can be traced back to the historic Tang Dynasty, a period when the renowned tea sage Lu Yu recognised and praised its remarkable qualities in his esteemed work known as the Classic of Tea. While this early acknowledgement laid the foundation for Longjing Tea’s reputation, it was during the succeeding Qing Dynasty that its renown truly shot up. This surge in popularity was significantly reinforced by an event involving Emperor Qianlong, who is famously known for his appreciation of fine teas. During one of his visits to Shifeng Mountain, he is said to have personally picked some of the tea leaves himself. According to legend, these leaves were so special that he carefully tucked them into his sleeve, and upon returning to his palace, they were used to create a brew that ultimately cured his ailing mother.

This royal endorsement not only elevated Longjing Tea to new heights but also secured its status as a tribute tea, a designation that meant it was exclusively reserved for the elite class of Chinese society, thereby further enhancing its prestige.

In the present day, Longjing Tea continues to hold a position of high regard among tea enthusiasts and connoisseurs. The tea is cultivated in five carefully protected regions, which include Shifeng, Longjing Village, Wuyun, Hupao, and Meijiawu. However, the most exceptional leaves are sourced specifically from Shifeng Mountain, a location renowned for its unique agricultural conditions. The mineral-rich soil found in this area, combined with a humid microclimate, contributes significantly to the tea’s distinctive qualities. Longjing Tea is celebrated for its “four wonders,” which include its vibrant green colour, delightful fragrant aroma, pleasantly sweet taste, and its characteristic flat and tender leaves.

These attributes are a testament to the careful cultivation and rich heritage that surround this extraordinary brew.

Experiencing Longjing Tea Culture: A Traveler’s Itinerary

1. Visit a Tea Plantation
2. Wander through terraced fields in Shifeng or Meijiawu, where tea farmers hand-pick the tender “one bud, one leaf” each spring. The best time to visit is during the Qingming Festival (early April), when the first flush, or Mingqian tea, is harvested—a delicacy prized for its subtlety.
3. Witness the “Shout for Tea” Ceremony
4. In Wengjiashan Village, join the annual Jingzhe Festival (early March), where locals chant “Tea, sprout!” to bless the harvest. This 90-year-old tradition, rooted in Fujian tea culture, now welcomes international visitors to partake in its lively rituals.
5. Savor a Tea-Infused Meal
6. Pair Longjing Tea with Hangzhou’s culinary delights. Local restaurants serve dishes like Longjing Shrimp, where tea leaves add a delicate fragrance to fresh river shrimp.
7. Explore West Lake’s Tea Houses
8. Sip freshly brewed Longjing Tea at lakeside teahouses like Hupao Longjing Tea House, where the water from Tiger-Spring Well (虎跑泉) enhances the tea’s natural sweetness.

Where to Buy Authentic Longjing Tea

Avoid counterfeit products by purchasing directly from certified sources:

• Lion Brand Longjing Tea Store (Hefang Street): Founded in 1984, this time-honored shop adheres to traditional processing methods and offers premium Shifeng Longjing.
• Meijiawu Tea Village: A hub for tea tastings and workshops, where farmers demonstrate pan-frying techniques that preserve the leaves’ vibrant color.

Tip: Authentic Longjing Tea has a chestnut-like aroma and leaves that stand upright when brewed.

Health Benefits and Brewing Tips for Longjing Tea

Longjing Tea, also known as Dragon Well Tea, is highly regarded for its numerous health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and essential amino acids, all of which contribute positively to overall health. This remarkable tea is particularly noted for its ability to enhance metabolism and promote mental clarity, making it a popular choice among tea enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike.

When it comes to brewing Longjing Tea properly, there are a few key steps you should follow to ensure you get the best flavour possible. First, it is important to heat your water to a temperature of 80°C, which is equivalent to 176°F. This temperature is ideal as it helps to prevent the tea from becoming overly bitter, allowing the delicate flavours to come to the fore. Next, you should steep the tea leaves for a duration of 1 to 2 minutes, depending on your personal taste preference.

For those who enjoy a stronger flavour, you may choose to steep for the longer end of that time frame. Additionally, you can enjoy the unique flavours and health benefits from Longjing Tea by infusing the same leaves up to three times, with each infusion revealing a slightly different taste profile.

Beyond Tea: Exploring Hangzhou’s Treasures

Extend your green tea journey with these nearby attractions:

• West Lake: Cruise past the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon or stroll the willow-lined Su Causeway.
• Lingyin Temple: A serene Buddhist monastery flanked by ancient carvings and lush forests.
• Hefang Street: A historic lane brimming with silk shops and traditional snacks.

Plan Your Trip with GreenTourAsia

At GreenTourAsia, we specialise in creating unforgettable experiences centred around tea. Our immersive tea-themed tours offer visitors a chance to explore various tea plantations, participate in traditional tea ceremonies, and indulge in delightful culinary experiences that highlight the rich flavours associated with tea. No matter if you are someone who has a deep appreciation for tea or if you are someone who enjoys learning about different cultures, you will find that the Longjing Tea trails in Hangzhou provide a remarkable journey full of stunning landscapes and rich traditions that have been cherished for generations.