Longjing Tea

Introducing Longjing Tea

One of the New Ten Scenic Spots of West Lake, this is a renowned destination for exploring the culture of Longjing tea. West Lake Longjing tea is primarily produced in the Longjing Village area. Longjing tea not only combines the four unique characteristics of tea: color, fragrance, flavor, and form, but also embodies the five famous names of famous mountains, temples, lakes, springs, and tea.

The West Lake Longjing teas are known for their distinctive flavors: Lion, Dragon, Cloud, Tiger, and Plum. Teas from Lion Peak and the Longjing region are considered the finest. Their secrets can only be fully appreciated by visiting Longjing Village to taste and learn about the tea, hence the intriguing saying, "Asking about Longjing Tea." The clear, sweet waters of Longjing springs make Longjing tea even more renowned, and visitors flock to learn about it, creating a unique Longjing tea culture.

Climate and best time to travel

Every year around the Qingming Festival, there are always many tourists who come here to enjoy tea, drink tea, and ask questions about tea, which is considered the most enjoyable thing about a spring outing.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

7:30-17:30

---

Most Popular FAQs for Longjing Tea

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

Longjing tea, also known as Dragon Well tea, has been cultivated for over a thousand years in Hangzhou. It is one of the most famous and prized green teas in China, known for its delicate flavor and high quality. The region has become a cultural and historical symbol of tea in China.

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

Longjing Tea is located in Longjing Village, which is part of the West Lake area in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. You can reach the village by taxi or bus from Hangzhou city center, which takes around 30 minutes. Walking through the scenic areas near West Lake is also a popular option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The tea plantations and related attractions are generally open year-round, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring months, particularly from March to May, when the tea leaves are freshly harvested and the scenery is at its most vibrant.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting the tea plantations themselves, but some attractions like the Longjing Tea Museum may have a small admission fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies for tea-related activities and tours.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets for general access to the tea plantations, but booking in advance is recommended for specialized tours, such as tea picking experiences or private tastings. A few days in advance should be sufficient, especially during the peak tourist season in spring.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Longjing Tea Village can be fully explored in about 3-4 hours, including a tea plantation tour, tea tasting, and some time for shopping or strolling around the scenic areas. If you plan to visit the tea museum or participate in a tea picking experience, it might take a little longer.

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

• The Longjing tea plantations and surrounding hills.
• Longjing Tea Museum, which provides insight into the history of tea and the tea-making process.
• The picturesque West Lake area, which is just a short distance away and offers beautiful views of tea fields against the backdrop of the lake.

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

Guided tours are available in Longjing Tea Village, often in Mandarin. Some tours may be available in English, particularly those arranged through hotels or travel agencies. Audio guides may be available at certain locations like the tea museum.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the tea hills offers sweeping views of the lush tea fields and nearby West Lake.
• Sunset views near the tea plantations provide excellent photo opportunities with the tea fields in the foreground and the lake in the distance.
• At the Longjing Tea Museum, there are several scenic spots for capturing the surrounding tea fields and mountains.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit with a stroll through the Longjing Tea plantations to enjoy the scenic landscape. Then, head to the Longjing Tea Museum for an informative tour about the history of tea. Afterward, enjoy a traditional tea tasting session at one of the local teahouses, followed by a visit to nearby West Lake.

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

There are no night visits or light shows available at Longjing Tea Village. However, West Lake, located nearby, is often beautifully illuminated at night, making it a pleasant spot for an evening walk after visiting the tea village.

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

The area can get crowded during weekends and peak tourist seasons, especially in the spring when tea harvesting is taking place. To avoid the crowds, try to visit on weekdays during the early morning or later in the afternoon, particularly in the off-season during autumn or winter.

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

There are basic facilities available, including public toilets, food vendors, and small shops selling local tea products and souvenirs. There are also several teahouses and cafes offering traditional tea and snacks for visitors to enjoy during their visit.

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

The main tea fields and museum areas are generally accessible for elderly and children, but some parts of the tea hills may have uneven terrain. Visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging to navigate certain areas, so it's recommended to plan accordingly.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is still accepted, mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used and accepted in most shops, teahouses, and tourist attractions in Hangzhou. It’s recommended to carry a mobile payment app for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several tea houses and restaurants in and around Longjing Tea Village that serve local Hangzhou cuisine, including dishes like Longjing tea shrimp and West Lake fish in vinegar sauce. Many of these establishments also offer traditional tea services.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants in Hangzhou, particularly those serving traditional Chinese cuisine. However, halal options may be limited, and it’s advisable to check with the restaurant beforehand if you need halal food.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near Longjing Tea Village, ranging from budget guesthouses to more luxurious resorts. For more accommodation options, you can also stay near West Lake, which is just a short drive away.

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

• West Lake, one of China's most famous and scenic lakes.
• The Lingyin Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple near the Longjing area.
• The Leifeng Pagoda, located near West Lake.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are many souvenir shops around Longjing Tea Village selling traditional tea-related items such as tea leaves, tea sets, and tea-themed gifts. Other local crafts like silk products and embroidered goods are also popular souvenirs.

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

After visiting Longjing Tea Village, taxis and buses are the best transportation options to continue your trip. You can also rent a bike to explore more scenic areas around West Lake or take a boat ride across the lake for a unique perspective of the area.