Best West Lake Tea Houses: Sip Longjing Tea in Hangzhou
Introduction to Longjing Tea and West Lake
West Lake in Hangzhou is not only a scenic paradise but also the heartland of Longjing tea, one of China’s most celebrated green teas. The misty hills surrounding the lake provide the perfect environment for cultivating this delicate and flavorful tea. Sipping Longjing tea while overlooking the serene waters of West Lake is an experience that embodies the essence of Hangzhou. This guide will lead you to the best tea houses around West Lake, where you can immerse yourself in the art of tea tasting and appreciate the rich culture surrounding this beloved beverage. For a complete overview, see our main guide to West Lake Hangzhou.
Recommended Tea Houses
Finding the perfect tea house around West Lake can enhance your experience. Here are some recommendations, categorized by style:
Traditional Tea Houses
These tea houses offer an authentic Chinese tea experience, often featuring traditional decor, tea ceremonies, and knowledgeable tea masters.
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Longjing Village Tea Houses: Located in the heart of Longjing tea country, these rustic tea houses offer the freshest Longjing tea straight from the source. Many are family-run businesses, providing a personal and intimate tea tasting experience. Expect simple settings and a focus on the tea itself.
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Hefang Street Tea Houses: Hefang Street, a historic pedestrian street, is home to several traditional tea houses. These establishments often feature elaborate decorations, classical music, and traditional tea snacks. It’s a great place to experience the bustling atmosphere of old Hangzhou while enjoying a cup of Longjing.
Modern Tea Rooms
For a more contemporary tea experience, consider visiting one of West Lake’s modern tea rooms. These establishments often blend traditional tea culture with modern design and amenities.
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Tea Houses near Hubin Road: This area features stylish tea rooms with lake views and a more relaxed atmosphere. These tea rooms often serve a variety of teas, including Longjing, alongside modern snacks and desserts.
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Upscale Hotel Tea Lounges: Several upscale hotels around West Lake offer elegant tea lounges where you can enjoy a refined tea experience. These lounges typically feature a wide selection of teas, impeccable service, and stunning views of the lake.
Types of Tea to Try
While Longjing tea is the star of West Lake, there are other teas worth exploring:
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Longjing (Dragon Well): The quintessential green tea of Hangzhou, known for its flat, jade-green leaves and delicate, chestnut-like flavor. There are different grades of Longjing, with the highest grades harvested in early spring.
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Biluochun: Another famous green tea, known for its spiral shape and fruity aroma. While not grown in Hangzhou, it’s often available in tea houses.
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Tieguanyin: A popular oolong tea from Fujian province, offering a more robust and floral flavor profile.
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Pu-erh: A fermented tea from Yunnan province, known for its earthy flavor and health benefits.
Tea Ceremony Experience
Participating in a Chinese tea ceremony, or gongfu cha, is a wonderful way to appreciate the art of tea preparation and tasting. Some tea houses around West Lake offer tea ceremony demonstrations and workshops. During a tea ceremony, you’ll learn about the history and culture of tea, the proper brewing techniques, and the etiquette of tea drinking.
Prices and How to Book
The price of tea varies depending on the grade and type of tea, as well as the location and ambiance of the tea house. Expect to pay more for high-grade Longjing and tea ceremonies. Some tea houses accept reservations, especially for tea ceremonies or private rooms. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check online to confirm availability and pricing.
Etiquette in Chinese Tea Houses
When visiting a Chinese tea house, it’s helpful to be aware of some basic etiquette:
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Respect the Tea Master: Pay attention to the tea master’s instructions and show appreciation for their expertise.
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Use Both Hands: When receiving a cup of tea, use both hands to show respect.
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Don’t Waste Tea: It’s considered impolite to waste tea. Drink each cup slowly and savor the flavor.
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Offer Tea to Others: If you’re sharing tea with others, offer them the first cup as a sign of respect.
