Meijiawu

Introducing Meijiawu

Meijiawu, located in the western hinterland of Hangzhou West Lake Scenic Area, south of Meiling Tunnel, stretches for more than ten miles along both sides of Meiling Road. Known as the " Ten-Li Meiwu " , it is a first-level protection zone and one of the main production areas of West Lake Longjing tea. It is also the most characteristic farm village in the suburbs of Hangzhou and a tea culture leisure and sightseeing tourist area.

Meijiawu is a renowned tea producer, renowned for its teas, such as the rare West Lake Longjing tea . " Spring " in Meijiawu signifies the fragrance of tea. During the Qingming Festival, tea pickers appear amidst the lush green tea gardens on the misty hillsides, while birdsong echoes the melodious sound of tea, adding a touch of spirituality to the beautiful mountain and plain landscape.

Here you can enjoy the beautiful mountains, the beautiful water, the tea and the culture. In Meijiawu, you can enjoy the scenery of the tea garden, breathe the pure air, sip a cup of fragrant Longjing tea, and leisurely return to the farming era.

Climate and best time to travel

Spring is the best time to travel, as it is the season for picking and making new tea. You can see tea farmers busy in the fields, and if you are interested, you can also experience the process of picking and making tea yourself.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Meijiawu

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Meijiawu is a famous tea village in Hangzhou, known for producing the highly-prized Longjing tea (Dragon Well tea). The village has been a tea-growing area for centuries and is deeply tied to the culture and heritage of Hangzhou. The tea fields here are renowned for their high-quality tea leaves, which are harvested by hand during the spring season.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Meijiawu is located in the western part of Hangzhou, about 10 kilometers from the city center. It can be reached by taxi or bus from the West Lake area. The most convenient method is to take a taxi, which takes around 20 minutes. Public buses are also available, or you can combine a bus ride with a short walk to the village.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Meijiawu is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring (March to May), when the tea leaves are being harvested, and autumn (September to November) for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. The village can be visited anytime from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee to visit the tea plantations and the surrounding areas is typically free, but there may be a charge for tea tastings or guided tours. Tickets for these activities can be purchased onsite. You can also book guided tours online in advance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance for general visits to Meijiawu, but for guided tours or special tea-tasting experiences, it is recommended to book a few days in advance, especially during peak seasons like the tea harvest period in spring.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Meijiawu, including visiting the tea plantations, participating in a tea-tasting session, and walking around the village, you will need approximately 2 to 3 hours. This allows enough time to appreciate the scenery and learn about the tea-making process.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The key highlights of Meijiawu include the beautiful tea fields, where you can observe tea picking and learn about the traditional methods of tea processing. The Longjing tea museum is also a must-see for those interested in the history and culture of Chinese tea.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and sometimes in English. These tours usually provide a deeper insight into the tea cultivation process and the cultural significance of tea in the region. Audio guides may also be available at the tea museum for self-guided tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints in Meijiawu are atop the hills surrounding the tea fields, offering panoramic views of the lush plantations. Early morning or late afternoon light offers the best conditions for photography, especially during the tea harvest season when the workers are out in the fields.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking through the tea fields and observing the tea-picking process. Then, head to the tea museum for a deeper understanding of the history of tea in Hangzhou. Afterward, enjoy a tea-tasting session to sample Longjing tea. Finally, take a relaxing stroll around the village to appreciate the rural landscape.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows at Meijiawu. However, the village is especially beautiful during the early morning or late afternoon, when the tea fields are bathed in soft light, making it a perfect time for a peaceful visit or photography.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Meijiawu can be crowded during peak tea season (spring) and during weekends. For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays or in the off-season (autumn and winter). Early mornings are also less crowded, especially on weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities are available at Meijiawu, including rest areas, toilets, and small shops selling local tea products and souvenirs. Tea tasting rooms are also available for visitors who wish to sample the famous Longjing tea.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Meijiawu is relatively accessible for elderly and children, but the terrain around the tea fields can be uneven. For visitors with mobility challenges, it's best to inquire about specific accessibility features, as some areas might be difficult to navigate.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted throughout Meijiawu. Cash is also accepted, but it is advisable to use mobile payments for convenience, especially in more remote areas of the village.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several small restaurants and cafes in the area offering traditional Hangzhou cuisine. For more dining options, visitors can head to the nearby West Lake area, where there are many upscale restaurants and local eateries.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

While Meijiawu offers traditional Hangzhou dishes, vegetarian options are available, particularly tea-based dishes. However, vegan or halal food options may be more limited, so it's advisable to check with restaurants in advance if you have specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a number of guesthouses and boutique hotels near Meijiawu, as well as accommodations in the West Lake area, which is about a 20-minute drive away. For more luxurious options, consider staying in one of Hangzhou's upscale hotels around West Lake.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the famous West Lake, where visitors can enjoy boat rides, visit temples, and stroll around the scenic area. The Lingyin Temple and the Zhejiang Provincial Museum are also close by and make for an excellent addition to a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops in Meijiawu selling traditional tea-related products, including Longjing tea, tea accessories, and teapots. Local crafts and snacks are also available for visitors to take home as souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Meijiawu, taxis and buses are the best transportation options to continue your trip. If you're heading to other attractions like West Lake or Lingyin Temple, taxis provide the most convenient option. Public buses are also available, but may take longer.