From Hangzhou: Longwu Tea Village, Longmen Town & Dam Tour

Introduction

If you’re visiting Hangzhou and craving an authentic taste of Zhejiang’s lush countryside and centuries-old traditions, this full-day tour offers a compelling way to do just that. It combines the serenity of scenic tea plantations, the charm of ancient towns, and the striking beauty of a uniquely shaped dam—all in one packed itinerary.

What makes this tour stand out are the intimate tea picking experience, the hands-on demonstration of Dragon Well tea frying, and the chance to stroll through a quaint Ming-Qing era village. Plus, it’s a well-organized day with thoughtful touches like a countryside lunch and flexible pickup options.

However, the main consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and outdoor exposure—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy being active and don’t mind a full day on their feet. It’s ideal for travelers eager to dive into local culture, history, and natural beauty in a single trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic tea experience with hand-picking and traditional tea frying
• Beautiful scenery across lush tea fields, ancient streets, and a scenic dam
• Cultural insights gained through visits to Ming-Qing era towns and museums
• Convenient logistics with pickup, small group size, and included lunch
• Value for money considering all the immersive activities and sights
• Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation up to 24 hours prior

Exploring Longwu Tea Village

The day kicks off with a visit to Longwu Tea Village, which is a treat for anyone interested in tea or rural Chinese landscapes. As we arrived, the sight of endless rows of vibrant green tea bushes stretched in every direction. It’s a picture-perfect, peaceful scene that instantly transports you away from city noise.

The highlight here is the opportunity to hand-pick your own tea leaves—a rare experience that makes the whole process feel more personal. The guides are knowledgeable and eager to share how Longjing (Dragon Well) tea is traditionally harvested, which adds a layer of appreciation for the craft.

After harvesting, the tour moves to the tea-making demonstration led by a seasoned local tea master. Watching him pan-fry the leaves with expert precision was both fascinating and educational. We learned that the process involves more than just heating; it’s about controlling moisture and aroma to produce the perfect flavor.

Many reviewers have emphasized the value of this hands-on aspect, with one noting, “It’s rare to get such an authentic demonstration—it made me appreciate my morning tea so much more.”

Following the demonstration, you’ll enjoy a traditional Song-style tea ceremony—a graceful ritual involving grinding, whisking, and creating intricate foam art. It’s a refined experience that highlights China’s elegant tea culture.

The orchard visit is paired with a hearty countryside lunch, featuring local delicacies such as Longjing shrimp, bamboo shoots, and freshly brewed tea. This meal is a simple but delicious way to deepen your connection to the local flavors.

Wandering Longmen Ancient Town

Next, the tour takes you to Longmen Old Town, a tranquil hub that dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. The streets are lined with stone lanes, ancient mansions, and bridges, each telling a story of bygone days.

As you stroll through the town, you’ll find museums, family temples, and ancestral halls that reveal the area’s rich history. One of the more memorable spots is a riverside teahouse, where you can relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere with views of flowing water and bamboo shadows.

Several reviews highlight how wandering these historical streets feels like stepping into a living museum. “It’s a quiet, beautiful place that lets you slow down and appreciate old China,” comments one traveler.

The town also offers opportunities for browsing local crafts and snacks, making it a great spot for souvenirs or a quick snack break before heading to the dam.

The Scenic Longlin Dam & Riverside Walk

The final stop is the Longlin Dam, an eye-catching structure with a shape reminiscent of dragon scales—hence its name. As water gently flows over the layered stones, it creates a shimmering, rhythmic display that’s both calming and visually striking.

Walking along the dam offers stunning views of the surrounding bamboo groves and traditional stone bridges. It’s a quiet place perfect for reflection after a day of exploring. Many guests mention that this spot provides a peaceful end to the busy day, with some noting, “The dam’s shape and the sound of water made it feel almost magical.”

This part of the tour emphasizes the integration of natural beauty with human ingenuity, giving visitors a chance to enjoy nature’s tranquility and craftsmanship.

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Practical Details and Value

This tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with pickup and drop-off arranged from anywhere in Hangzhou. The small group size (1-6 people) ensures a more personal experience, and guides speak multiple languages including English, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Spanish, French, and Russian—helping make the day accessible for international travelers.

The price of $263 per person covers all major activities, including entry tickets to Longwu Tea Village and Longmen Old Town, as well as the included lunch. Considering the immersive nature of the experience, it offers good value, especially for those who want to learn about traditional tea culture firsthand.

More casual travelers might find the day quite full, with a fair amount of walking and outdoor time. However, the schedule is flexible, and travelers are advised to bring their passport or ID for registration purposes.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, which is worth noting for those with mobility concerns. You can reserve your spot without paying upfront, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

Why This Tour Works Well

For culture lovers, this tour offers an authentic glimpse into China’s tea heritage, combined with the chance to walk through well-preserved historical streets. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of local traditions without the crowds of bigger tourist spots.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic vistas of tea fields, bamboo groves, and the shimmering dam. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and disconnecting.

Foodies will enjoy the countryside meal, which features local ingredients and flavors. The experience adds a delicious, tangible dimension to the day.

Photographers will find plenty of opportunities, from lush green tea plantations to ancient streets and a uniquely shaped dam that makes for memorable images.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers interested in cultural learning and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for those who enjoy being outdoors, walking, and engaging with local traditions. It’s also suitable for small groups or couples looking for a personalized, off-the-beaten-path day trip from Hangzhou.

If you’re after a relaxed, immersive day that combines history, culture, and nature, this tour hits the right notes. However, if mobility is an issue or you prefer indoor activities, it might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Hangzhou offers a balanced combination of tea culture, ancient architecture, and stunning landscapes. It provides a rare chance to learn about traditional tea-making methods firsthand, walk through a historic town, and end the day by a dragon-shaped dam that’s both beautiful and calming.

The small group setup and thoughtful itinerary make it feel intimate and genuine, perfect for travelers eager to connect with local traditions beyond the usual tourist spots. The included lunch and flexible booking terms add to the overall value, making it a smart choice for those who want a full, enriching experience.

While it requires a full day of activity, the variety of sights and insights makes it well worth the effort for anyone wanting to deepen their appreciation of Zhejiang’s cultural and natural treasures. If you’re looking for a meaningful, scenic escape from Hangzhou with authentic touches, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Hangzhou are included. Your dedicated staff will confirm the exact pickup time and location the evening before.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 10 hours, making it a full-day excursion suitable for those ready for a packed, engaging itinerary.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers all major activities—entry tickets to Longwu Tea Village and Longmen Old Town—as well as a countryside lunch. Personal expenses are not included.

Is the tour suitable for non-Chinese speakers?
Absolutely. The guides speak multiple languages including English, and the experience is designed for international travelers.

Are there any physical limitations to be aware of?
The tour involves walking, some outdoor exposure, and uneven paths, so it’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for registration, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

Is there enough free time during the tour?
While the schedule is full, there are moments to relax, browse local crafts, or enjoy the scenery at each stop.

Can I customize the experience?
For larger groups or special requests, inquire directly with the provider for potential customization options.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Zhejiang’s tea heritage, scenic beauty, and history—all within a well-organized, personable day from Hangzhou. Perfect for curious travelers eager to explore beyond the city’s more famous sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: