Longjing Tea: Tour Hangzhou's Lush Green Tea Plantations
Longjing Tea: Exploring Hangzhou’s Famous Green Tea Plantations
Longjing tea, also known as Dragon Well tea, is a celebrated variety of green tea hailing from the Hangzhou region of China. Its distinctive flat, sword-shaped leaves and delicate, vegetal flavor have made it a favorite among tea connoisseurs worldwide. Discover the history, production, and unique tasting experience of this prized beverage.
Introduction to Longjing Tea
History and Significance
Longjing tea boasts a rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty, with its prominence solidified during the Qing Dynasty when it was granted imperial status. Legend has it that Emperor Qianlong was so enamored with the tea that he bestowed special recognition upon the 18 tea bushes in the Longjing village. These bushes are still revered today, symbolizing the legacy and prestige of Longjing tea. The tea’s name, “Longjing,” translates to “Dragon Well,” referring to a local well believed to be the source of the tea’s superior quality.
Why It’s Famous
Longjing tea’s fame rests on several key factors. Firstly, the terroir of the Longjing region, with its unique soil composition, climate, and altitude, contributes significantly to the tea’s exceptional flavor profile. Secondly, the meticulous hand-processing techniques, passed down through generations, ensure that only the finest leaves are selected and carefully pan-fired to preserve their freshness and aroma. Finally, the tea’s renowned health benefits, including its high antioxidant content, further enhance its appeal.
Visiting Longjing Tea Plantations
How to Get There
The Longjing tea plantations are easily accessible from Hangzhou city center. Public buses and taxis are readily available, offering a convenient way to reach the Longjing village. Consider using the Hangzhou Transportation Guide to plan your trip efficiently. For a more immersive experience, you can also hire a private car or join a guided tour.
What to Expect
Visiting a Longjing tea plantation is a sensory delight. Expect to be greeted by the verdant landscape of rolling hills covered in tea bushes. The air is filled with the fresh, grassy aroma of tea leaves. You’ll have the opportunity to observe the tea-picking process firsthand, as skilled workers meticulously pluck the tender buds. Many plantations offer guided tours that provide insights into the history, cultivation, and processing of Longjing tea.
Tea Tasting Experience
A visit to a Longjing tea plantation wouldn’t be complete without a tea tasting experience. Savor the delicate flavor of freshly brewed Longjing tea, appreciating its subtle nuances and smooth finish. Learn about the proper brewing techniques and the art of tea appreciation. Many plantations also offer tea ceremonies, providing a deeper understanding of Chinese tea culture.
The Process of Making Longjing Tea
The production of Longjing tea is a labor-intensive process that requires skill and precision. The process involves several key steps:
- Harvesting: The tea leaves are harvested in early spring, typically before the Qingming Festival (early April). Only the tender buds and the first two leaves are selected.
- Withering: The freshly picked leaves are spread out thinly to wither, reducing their moisture content and softening them for further processing.
- Pan-Firing: This is the most crucial step in determining the tea’s quality. The leaves are pan-fired in a large wok, using precise hand movements to prevent scorching and to develop the characteristic flat shape.
- Sorting and Grading: The tea leaves are carefully sorted and graded based on their size, shape, and color.
- Roasting: The sorted tea is roasted to further reduce moisture and enhance flavor.
Where to Buy Authentic Longjing Tea
Finding authentic Longjing tea can be challenging, as the market is flooded with imitations. Here are some tips to ensure you’re buying genuine Longjing tea:
- Purchase directly from reputable tea farms or shops in the Longjing region. This ensures you’re getting tea that’s locally sourced and processed.
- Look for the “Longjing Tea” geographical indication mark. This mark guarantees that the tea meets certain quality standards and originates from the designated region.
- Examine the tea leaves carefully. Authentic Longjing tea leaves should be flat, smooth, and a light green color.
- Trust your senses. The tea should have a fresh, vegetal aroma and a delicate, refreshing flavor.
Longjing tea is a treasure of Hangzhou and a symbol of Chinese tea culture. Exploring the plantations and savoring its unique flavor is an unforgettable experience. For a complete overview, see our main guide to Hangzhou.
