Longjing Tea Plantations | Hangzhou

The Longjing Tea Plantations (龙井茶园, Lóngjǐng Chá Yuán) are one of the most famous tea-growing regions in China, located in the West Lake area of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. The region is renowned for producing Longjing tea (Dragon Well tea), one of the most prestigious and sought-after green teas in the world. These tea plantations not only produce exceptional tea but also offer visitors an insight into the traditional processes of tea cultivation, harvesting, and production.

1. Overview:

• Location: The Longjing Tea Plantations are situated to the west of West Lake, around the Longjing Village, and they cover the surrounding hillsides. The most famous tea-growing areas include Meijiawu, Longjing Village, and Xihu (West Lake) area.
• Longjing Tea: Known as Dragon Well tea in English, Longjing tea is one of China's "Top Ten Famous Teas", celebrated for its delicate, floral flavor and refreshing, slightly sweet taste. The tea's name comes from the Longjing Village, where it has been cultivated for centuries.

2. Tea History:

• The history of Longjing tea dates back over 1,200 years, with roots in the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). It became famous during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), particularly when the tea gained recognition as a royal tea.
• Legend has it that during the Qianlong Emperor's reign (1735–1796), he visited the Longjing area and tasted the tea, declaring it the finest tea in the region. This royal endorsement contributed to its fame.
• Longjing tea has since become a cultural symbol of Hangzhou and is often served during important ceremonies and social gatherings.

3. Tea Plantation Features:

• Tea Fields: The tea plantations are situated in the hills and mountain slopes, creating a picturesque landscape. The fields are arranged in neat rows, and the lush green tea leaves cover the slopes of the hills. The scenery is especially stunning in the spring when the tea leaves are freshly picked, and the area is dotted with small tea-picking villages.
• Terraced Plantations: The plantations often follow a terraced pattern, which helps with water drainage and gives the fields a visually striking appearance. The terraces are typically covered with young tea bushes, and the surrounding environment is kept lush and vibrant.

4. Longjing Tea Cultivation and Production:

• Tea Leaves: Longjing tea is known for its distinct, flat leaves, which are hand-picked during the spring harvest (usually from March to April). The tea leaves are processed using a traditional method called pan-frying, which helps preserve their fresh, grassy flavor and bright green color.
• Harvesting Process: The tea leaves are plucked by hand, with the youngest, most tender leaves being the most valuable. The best Longjing tea is often harvested during the Tomb Sweeping Festival (early April), and this fresh batch is called pre-Qingming Longjing (清明前龙井), considered the highest quality.
• Processing: After being picked, the leaves undergo a quick stir-frying process to prevent oxidation, which helps retain the tea's green color and fresh, fragrant aroma. The leaves are carefully shaped into their signature flat, smooth appearance, and then they are dried and packaged.

5. Types of Longjing Tea:

• Pre-Qingming (Before Qingming Festival): This is the highest-quality Longjing tea, harvested before the Qingming Festival in early April. It is characterized by a sweet, delicate flavor and is highly prized.
• Qingming Longjing: Tea picked during the Qingming Festival (early April) is also considered excellent but may have a slightly less delicate taste compared to the pre-Qingming tea.
• Post-Qingming Longjing: Harvested after the Qingming Festival, this tea tends to be less fragrant and flavorful compared to the earlier batches.

6. Visiting the Longjing Tea Plantations:

Visiting the Longjing Tea Plantations offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the tea culture of China, see traditional tea-making processes in action, and taste some of the freshest and finest teas.

Highlights of the Visit:

• Tea Picking Experience: Many tea plantations offer visitors the opportunity to pick their own tea leaves, especially during the spring harvest. You can walk through the tea fields, engage with local tea farmers, and try your hand at plucking the tender leaves.
• Tea Making Demonstrations: Visitors can observe the entire tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to the hand-frying technique used to prepare the tea. These demonstrations provide insight into the craftsmanship and tradition involved in producing Longjing tea.
• Tasting Sessions: Some plantations provide tea-tasting experiences, where you can sample various types of Longjing tea, often accompanied by local snacks or traditional Chinese desserts. It’s a great way to appreciate the distinct flavors of different tea varieties.
• Tea Houses: After touring the plantations, many visitors relax at traditional tea houses, where they can enjoy freshly brewed Longjing tea and learn more about its cultural importance.

7. Cultural Significance:

Longjing tea plays a central role in Chinese tea culture, and it is often consumed during important cultural ceremonies, such as weddings, family gatherings, and festivals. The tea also holds symbolic meaning in Chinese society, often representing hospitality, respect, and refinement.

In addition to its cultural significance, Longjing tea is renowned for its health benefits. It is known for being rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which contribute to its reputation as a health-promoting beverage.

8. Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March to May): The best time to visit the Longjing Tea Plantations is in spring, particularly during the harvest season (late March to early April). During this time, the fields are alive with activity as locals harvest the young tea leaves, and visitors can experience the magic of tea-picking season.
• Autumn (September to November): While spring is the peak season, autumn also offers a tranquil experience with beautiful scenery, cooler temperatures, and fewer tourists.

9. How to Get There:

• By Taxi: From Hangzhou city center, the Longjing Tea Plantations are about a 15-20 minute drive. Most hotels in Hangzhou can help arrange transportation to the plantations.
• Public Transport: You can take a public bus to the Longjing area, but a taxi is often more convenient for reaching the tea plantations directly.
• By Foot: If you’re already near West Lake, it’s possible to walk to the Longjing Tea Plantations, as they are located on the nearby hillsides.

10. Conclusion:

The Longjing Tea Plantations are a must-visit destination for tea lovers and anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Hangzhou. From the picturesque tea fields to the traditional tea-making process, visiting these plantations provides a deeper understanding of one of China’s most renowned teas. The experience offers visitors not only a glimpse into the art of tea cultivation but also the opportunity to taste some of the freshest, most celebrated tea in the world.