Hangzhou Tea Plantation Tours: Discover Longjing & More
Immerse yourself in Hangzhou's rich tea culture with guided tours of renowned tea plantations, tasting sessions, and scenic valley explorations.
Hangzhou, a city celebrated for its West Lake, also holds a deep-rooted connection to the world of tea. The region surrounding Hangzhou, particularly the southwestern hills, is the birthplace of the famed Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, one of China's most esteemed green teas. Exploring these verdant landscapes on a dedicated tea plantation tour offers a fascinating glimpse into a centuries-old agricultural and cultural tradition. These guided experiences go beyond simply admiring the scenery; they invite visitors to actively engage with the tea-making process. You'll often find yourself walking through meticulously tended tea fields, learning about the different varietals, and understanding the delicate art of plucking. Many tours include educational sessions on the history and cultivation of tea, followed by a crucial element: a tasting. This is where you can truly appreciate the nuanced flavors and aromas that make Longjing tea so special, often accompanied by insights into proper brewing techniques. For travelers seeking an authentic taste of Hangzhou's heritage and a peaceful escape into nature, a tea plantation experience is an essential addition to any itinerary. Whether you're a seasoned tea enthusiast or simply curious about local customs, these tours provide a rich, sensory journey into the heart of China's tea culture, set against the backdrop of beautiful, rolling hillsides.
Featured Tea Plantation Experiences Tours
Discover our top picks for tea plantation experiences in Hangzhou
Want to get away from bustle and hustle city, and be surrounded by greens and fresh air? This half-day private tour is a great way to get your body fully benefited from negative oxygen ions. Have a easy hike in beautiful Yunxi Zhujing Scenic Resort (also known by Yunqi Zhujing) , which is full of bamboo. Followed by a tea plantation experience in Meijiawu or Longjing Tea Village where you get to know the tea culture, enjoy tea tasting and local lunch. All entrance fees, private guide and private vehicle service are all inclusive.
Visit the stunning city of Hangzhou during this scenic day trip, with private pickup from your hotel or train station. Perfect for travelers short on time, it covers all of the highlights in a single excursion. Glide across serene, UNESCO-listed West Lake on an iconic boat ride, learn the ins and outs of tea cultivating and tasting at Meijiawu Tea Village, and shop for antique embroidery along the centuries-old Southern Song Imperial Street. If you'd like, enjoy a homecooked lunch at a local farmer's home (at your own expense) \ ~An in-depth, half-day tour of Hangzhou, with private hotel or train station pickup ~Cover the city’s top highlights in a single visit, perfect for travelers short on time ~Get the best views of traditional pagodas and arched bridges on a scenic boat ride ~Learn how tea is picked and processed, and get a taste of China’s finest brews
This fun half-day private nature outing let you be surrounded in beautiful falls, creek, greens and fresh tea aroma. It's a great way to get your body fully benefited from negative oxygen ions. Spend about 90-minute easy hike at Nine Creeks (also known by Jiuxi 18 Stream), and followed by a visit to Longjing Tea Village where you get to know the tea culture, enjoy tea tasting and local lunch. All entrance fees, private guide and private vehicle service are all inclusive. Upgrade your tour with a relaxing boat ride in West Lake at time of your booking.
Take a fully guided half-day tour to embrace the amazing Hangzhou nature. Enjoy the tranquil and fun walk in the shallow 18 streams and cross nine creeks lined with trees and emmerse in the fresh air, follow the trail to the famous Longjing tea plantation and terrace village surrounded by vast mountains. Have great learning about the “Paradise City” Hangzhou and its traditional tea culture and lifes. Choose morning or afternoon departure based on your own travel schedule.
In this private tour, tourists are free of charge to drink a cup of "Dragon Green Tea" ,the best green tea not only in China but also in the world. Listen to the professional explanation and introduction of the docent(In English or Chinese), and understand the culture of tea, making process of tea, and the nutrition knowledge of tea. Climb the tea montain, enjoy the beautiful scenery and take some picture in the arm of nature. The vehicle (van) can seat 1-6 persons. the price is same for 1 person to 6 persons. It's so cheap, isn't it?
This trip is for tea lovers who want to learn the tea culture. We arrange only two attractions: the Tea Museuma and Meijiawu Tea village. Driver and guide will meet you at your hotel or Hangzhou railway stations, then forward to China National Tea Museum to discover the history of Chinese tea and the tea ceremony. After visiting tea museum, drive to the Tea village in the mountain side and have lunch in a tea-themed restaurant and see how tea influences dishes in Hangzhou Meijiawu is an important and the largest production base of Longjing Tea in Hangzhou. The village is features Quiet, relaxing and refreshing place, full of tea plantation. You could also have a visit of the Eighteen Imperial Tea Bushes "Imperial Tea". conferred by Emperor Qianlong. The bushes continue producing premium Longjing tea and the tea they produce is auctioned annually for higher price per gram than gold. Back to your hotel.
Spend a full day to enjoy the natural beauty and fresh air of Hangzhou. Enjoy a easy hike in the peaceful Yunxi Zhujing Scenic Resort (also known by Yunqi Zhujing), which is full of bamboo. Followed by a tea plantation experience in Meijiawu or Longjing Tea Village where you get to know the tea culture, enjoy green tea tasting and local lunch. Then, take a relaxing West Lake boat ride under the charming sunset.
Indulge yourself in picturesque West Lake, one of China’s most memorable natural wonders and. Take a stroll along the Su Causeway filled with peach blossoms, willows trees, plum blossoms and beautiful flowers. Admire the legendary Buddhist culture at Feilai Peak and the Leifeng Pagoda. The best highlights is to learn about the history and culture of Chinese tea and appreciate the whole process of the Chinese Tea Ceremony in Meijiawu Tea Plantation.
Hangzhou was an epicenter of trade, culture, and also the location where the biggest man-made waterway, the Grand Canal, turns north towards Beijing. Marco Polo described the metropolis as being “the most magnificent and dignified city in the world”. Indulge yourself in picturesque West Lake, one of China’s most memorable natural wonders and. Take a stroll along the Su Causeway filled with peach blossoms, willows trees, plum blossoms and beautiful flowers. Admire the legendary Buddhist culture at Feilai Peak and the Leifeng Pagoda. The best highlights is to learn about the history and culture of Chinese tea and appreciate the whole process of the Chinese Tea Ceremony in Meijiawu Tea Plantation.
Discover what makes Hangzhou one of the most renowned cities in China on this multi-day tour of the city’s most popular locales. With your own private guide to lead you on tours and give you insightful commentary about the attractions you’ll visit, you will have a fabulous experience in this beautiful and historical city. The highlight of the tour is sure to be West Lake, where you’ll explore the gardens and courtyards that surround it on foot before enjoying the lake itself on a boat ride. You will also visit the Six Harmonies Pagoda and the Longjing Tea Plantation. This tour includes three nights of accommodation, a private guide and all necessary transportation, making your stay in Hangzhou comfortable and enjoyable.
Travel to the historical city of Hangzhou and enjoy a cruise tour on West Lake. Stroll on the Su Causeway and visit Yuefei Temple, admiring the surrounding mist-cloaked hillsides, pavilions, and willows. After lunch, continue along the path to visit the scenic spots around the west lake, LingYin Temple, Klippe Ling Yin, Meijiawu Tea Plantation, a traditional tea farming village nestled in emerald slopes. And last but not least, visit one of the original Chinese medicine shops at Hefang Street. Entrance fees, lunch, and private transport with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
Why Choose Tea Plantation Experiences in Hangzhou?
Scenic Beauty
Wander through picturesque terraced tea fields offering stunning panoramic views.
Authentic Culture
Engage with local farmers and learn about traditional tea cultivation and production.
Taste Renowned Teas
Sample the world-famous Longjing (Dragon Well) green tea and other local varieties.
Photographic Opportunities
Capture the lush green landscapes and the vibrant life of the tea-growing regions.
Educational Insight
Gain a deeper understanding of tea history, processing techniques, and brewing methods.
Hands-On Activities
Participate in tea leaf plucking or observe the intricate art of tea processing.
Types of Tea Plantation Experiences in Hangzhou
Longjing Tea Village Tours
Focus on the renowned Longjing village, delving into the history and production of Dragon Well tea. These tours often include visits to local tea houses and farms.
Hilly Tea Garden Excursions
Explore the broader tea-growing regions surrounding Hangzhou, often in more remote hilly areas. These tours highlight the natural beauty and diverse tea varietals grown locally.
Tea & Culinary Experiences
Combine the enjoyment of tea with local Hangzhou cuisine. These tours may include a traditional meal or cooking demonstration paired with tea.
Tea Picking and Processing Workshops
Hands-on tours where visitors can participate in plucking tea leaves during harvest season or witness the detailed steps of drying and roasting.
What to Expect on Tea Plantation Experiences Tours
Duration
Most tours range from 3 to 4 hours, allowing for travel time to and from the plantations, guided exploration, and tasting sessions.
Weather
Hangzhou experiences distinct seasons. Spring (March-May) is ideal for lush greenery and harvest, while autumn (September-November) offers pleasant temperatures. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters are cool.
Group Size
Tours typically operate in small to medium-sized groups, ranging from 5 to 15 people, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.
What's Included
Common inclusions are guided tours of the tea fields and processing areas, tea tasting sessions, and sometimes transportation from a central meeting point.
Meeting Point
Meeting points are usually specified by the tour operator, often in downtown Hangzhou or at designated landmarks, with transportation provided to the tea plantations.
Costs
Prices vary based on the tour's duration, inclusions, and exclusivity, with typical costs ranging from $30 to $70 USD per person.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Visit during the spring harvest season (April-May) for the freshest tea leaves and vibrant green scenery.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be navigating uneven terrain and potentially hilly landscapes.
Bring a light jacket or umbrella, as weather can change quickly in the tea-growing hills.
Engage with your guide; they often have fascinating stories and insights into local tea culture.
Don't be shy during the tasting session; ask questions about the aromas, flavors, and brewing.
Consider purchasing tea directly from the plantations; it's often fresher and can be a great souvenir.
If you have dietary restrictions, inform the tour operator in advance, especially for tours including meals.
Allow ample time for travel to and from the tea plantations, as they are often located outside the city center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Is it possible to pick tea leaves on these tours?
A: Yes, during the specific harvest seasons (typically spring), many tours offer the opportunity to participate in tea leaf plucking. It's a hands-on way to connect with the tea-making process.
Q:What is the best time of year to visit the tea plantations?
A: The most popular and visually stunning time is spring, from April to May, when the tea plants are young and green, and the harvest is underway. Autumn (September to November) also offers pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
Q:Can I buy tea directly from the plantation?
A: Absolutely. Most tours provide opportunities to purchase fresh tea directly from the farmers or vendors at the plantation. It's a great way to get authentic Longjing tea.
Q:Are these tours suitable for families with children?
A: Many tea plantation tours are family-friendly, especially those that focus on scenic walks and basic tea appreciation. However, very young children might find longer explanations less engaging.
Q:What should I wear for a tea plantation tour?
A: Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, and it's wise to check the weather forecast and bring layers or rain gear if needed.
Q:Are the tea tasting sessions included in all tours?
A: Tea tasting is a core component of most tea plantation tours. It's where you'll learn to appreciate the subtle differences in aroma and flavor, often guided by a tea expert.
Q:Do I need to know a lot about tea to enjoy these tours?
A: Not at all! These tours are designed for everyone, from complete novices to tea aficionados. Guides are knowledgeable and happy to explain everything from cultivation to tasting notes.
Q:How far are the tea plantations from Hangzhou city center?
A: The distance can vary. The most famous Longjing Village is relatively close, about a 30-40 minute drive. Other tea-growing areas might be a bit further, typically within a 1-1.5 hour radius from the city center.
Why Visit Hangzhou?
Experience the serene West Lake, a UNESCO gem, offering iconic Chinese landscape beauty.
Explore the historic Lingyin Temple, a spiritual heartland nestled amidst lush hills.
Discover vibrant silk markets and tea plantations, showcasing Hangzhou's rich heritage.
Immerse yourself in ancient canals and traditional water towns near the city.
Savor world-class Longjing tea and authentic Zhejiang cuisine, a true local delight.
Find tranquility and inspiration in the 'City of Silk and Tea'.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Hangzhou experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid with frequent rainfall, while winters are cold and damp, occasionally seeing frost. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures and lower humidity.
Best Months
The ideal months to visit Hangzhou are typically April to May in spring and September to October in autumn, offering comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially around West Lake.
Peak Season
Peak season generally falls during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months, coinciding with the most pleasant weather. Expect larger crowds and potentially higher accommodation prices during these popular periods.
Off Season
The summer months (June-August) can be very hot and humid, while winter (December-February) is cold and damp. Visiting during the off-season may mean fewer crowds and lower prices, but be prepared for less predictable weather.
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Plan Your Hangzhou Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Hangzhou is quite convenient thanks to its well-developed public transportation. The Hangzhou Metro system is extensive and efficient, connecting most major attractions and districts. Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable, though traffic can be heavy during peak hours. For shorter distances, especially around West Lake, consider renting a bicycle – it's a fantastic way to explore. Buses are also a budget-friendly option, but navigating routes can be challenging for first-time visitors. Ride-sharing apps are popular and a good alternative to traditional taxis.
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Where to Stay
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