
The Zhongzhou Town Red Tea Mountain Scenic Area, located in Xiashan Village, Zhongzhou Town, in southwestern Chun'an County, approximately 90 kilometers from Qiandaohu Town, is a key destination for Chun'an's Red Tourism. Home to the former site of the Tea Mountain Conference, visitors can visit the Memorial Hall of the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army's Northward Anti-Japanese Advance Team, hike the Tea Mountain Ancient Trail, stay in a rural homestay, and savor local delicacies. The area also offers a comprehensive package of food, accommodation, and tours.
According to county annals, Zhongzhou belongs to the Upper Shu Formation of the Second Pre-Sinian System, located in the uppermost stratum of the Pre-Sinian System. This is the oldest stratum in the county and a unique feature of Zhongzhou's geomorphic landscape. Therefore, ancient Zhongzhou, through the vicissitudes of human history, has left behind numerous unique resources. Specifically listed, these three resources—humanities, ecology, and the revolutionary spirit—constitute the distinctive character of Zhongzhou.
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Zhongzhou Town is famous for its red tea plantations. Red tea, known for its rich flavor and health benefits, has been cultivated here for centuries. The region's tea culture is an integral part of Zhejiang's agricultural heritage, attracting tea enthusiasts and visitors from around the world.
Zhongzhou Town is located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. The most convenient way to reach the area is by taxi or private car. Public buses are also available from Hangzhou city center, and the trip typically takes around 1-2 hours, depending on traffic.
The area is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and early autumn, when the tea gardens are lush and the weather is pleasant. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, especially during the harvesting season in May and June.
The entrance fee for the tea plantation and museum is typically around 60-100 CNY. Tickets can be purchased online through tourism websites or directly at the entrance of the attraction.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons, especially during the spring tea harvest. Booking 1-2 days ahead is generally sufficient, but for weekends or holidays, booking 1 week in advance is advised.
Plan for 3-4 hours to explore the tea plantations, take a guided tour of the tea museum, and enjoy tea tasting. If you also plan to hike the surrounding hills, an additional 1-2 hours may be needed.
Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English, providing insights into the tea-making process and the region’s history. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, including English.
Start with a walk through the tea plantations, then head to the tea museum for an introduction to the region's tea culture. Afterward, enjoy tea tasting at a local tea house, followed by a hike up the nearby hills for a panoramic view of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not available. However, special tea-picking experiences and night-time tea tasting events may be arranged in advance for groups or special occasions.
The area can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly in the off-season from November to March.
There are toilets available at various points along the walking routes. Food and water are available in the tea houses and local restaurants. Rest areas with benches are scattered throughout the plantation, and there are souvenir shops offering local tea and related products.
The main areas are accessible for children and elderly visitors, though the hilly terrain may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Some walking paths are paved, but others may be uneven or steep.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at most places. Credit cards are also widely accepted, though it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions.
There are several restaurants and cafes nearby offering local Zhejiang cuisine, including dishes made with fresh tea leaves. Some tea houses provide light snacks along with tea tastings.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most of the restaurants near the tea plantations. Halal food may be limited, but it can be requested in some restaurants with advance notice.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near Zhongzhou Town, ranging from budget to mid-range options. The nearby city of Hangzhou offers more luxurious accommodations if you prefer to stay in the city center.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling locally produced red tea, tea accessories, and other regional handicrafts such as silk products and pottery.
After visiting, taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing your journey to other attractions in Hangzhou or nearby towns. Public buses are also available for longer trips.