Hangzhou: Longjing Village Tea Picking and Tasting Tour

If you’re dreaming of sipping authentic Longjing tea amid lush green hills and capturing picturesque tea fields, this tour promises all that and more. While some travelers have found it to be a bit underwhelming, it still offers a chance to get a taste of Hangzhou’s famous tea culture.

What we like about this experience is the opportunity to see Longjing tea being made, the chance to pick your own tea leaves, and enjoying the peaceful scenery of the tea mountains. Plus, strolling through the Internet-famous tea garden and tasting genuine Shifeng Longjing tea are definite highlights.

One notable catch, however, is the lack of guide assistance reported by some. For example, one reviewer mentioned, “No guide, no answers, and the store tried to rip us off,” which suggests travelers should go in with realistic expectations about guidance and service. Still, this tour might suit those who enjoy independent exploration or want a straightforward, scenic outing with tea tasting included.

This tour is best for travelers seeking scenic views and a genuine tea experience, rather than those after in-depth historical or guided storytelling.

Key Points

• Authentic Longjing tea tasting with insights into tea-making
• Opportunity to pick your own tea leaves in a scenic setting
• Visiting the Internet-famous tea garden offers great photo opportunities
• Limited guide interaction may require self-guided exploration
• Crowds can be an issue, especially at production areas
• Value for the price depends on your expectations for guided assistance and exclusive access

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers the chance to learn about the world of Longjing tea, one of China’s most cherished beverages. Starting in Longjing Village, you’ll be greeted by the striking views of tea mountains that seem to stretch endlessly, with the aroma of brewing tea filling the air.

The main draw is visiting the production area early—before the crowds arrive—allowing you to witness the tea process up close. You’ll have the chance to taste Shifeng Longjing, one of the finest varieties, and learn about the craftsmanship behind it. Many travelers find this rewarding, especially those who appreciate authentic, farm-to-cup experiences.

However, some reviews highlight that the guidance can be minimal. As one reviewer noted, “No guide, no answers…” which might leave anyone unfamiliar with tea production feeling a little lost. But if you’re comfortable exploring independently or want to take photos without a guide’s constant presence, this could still be a positive aspect.

Itinerary Breakdown: From Village to Tea Fields

The tour typically starts at the designated meeting point in Longjing Village, where you’ll be met by your guide or possibly directed to a meeting spot near local tea shops like Shifeng Meiling or Longjing West Lake. The tour includes a visit to the production area, which is ideal for avoiding crowds and tasting fresh Longjing tea—this is often the highlight for many.

You’ll enjoy a tea snack, which pairs well with the tea tasting session, giving you a chance to savor the flavors and learn about the history of Longjing tea from your guide. Although some reviews suggest limited guidance, the opportunity to taste the tea directly from the source provides a genuine experience.

Next, the tour continues to the Nine Creeks and the Internet celebrity tea garden, a spot that’s popular on social media for its picturesque views. Strolling through the greenery, you’ll witness daily conversations of tea farmers, a unique insight into local life. Be prepared for some crowds here, especially if visiting during peak hours.

The highlight for many is the chance to pick your own tea leaves. Standing amidst the tea bushes, feeling the breeze and harvesting fresh leaves, you’ll get a true farm-to-table experience. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, camera, and water to make the most of this part.

The Value of the Experience

Priced at $85 per person, this tour offers a lot for lovers of scenic landscapes and tea culture. The inclusion of tea picking, tasting, and a walk through a renowned tea garden is definitely appealing, especially if you’re looking for a relaxed half-day outing.

However, the lack of in-depth guidance and some reports of overenthusiastic store staff trying to upsell or rip off visitors do warrant caution. If you’re comfortable exploring independently or with minimal accompaniment, the value remains fair. For those expecting a comprehensive guided experience, it may fall short.

The tour duration generally allows for a leisurely exploration, but the group size might be large, especially during peak times, which can impact the overall experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive with comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking through uneven tea fields and narrow paths.
• Bring a camera—especially if you want to capture the rolling tea hills or the quaint village scenery.
• Stay hydrated—the walk and exposure to sun can be tiring.
• Be aware of crowds at popular photo spots and production areas.
• Manage expectations regarding guidance—this tour is more about self-exploration than guided storytelling.
• Reserve in advance with flexible payment options, but remember you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re a tea enthusiast eager to see the real Longjing production process and enjoy scenic walks, this tour can be rewarding. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer a relaxed, photo-friendly outing rather than those seeking detailed historical narratives or guided commentary.

Those who value authentic experiences combined with beautiful views will likely appreciate the opportunity to pick tea leaves and taste freshly brewed tea. However, if you’re looking for a highly guided, educational experience or traveling with mobility challenges, this may not meet your needs.

The Sum Up

This Longjing Village tea tour offers an accessible, scenic glimpse into China’s famous tea culture. The chance to pick your own leaves, sip authentic tea, and walk through lush tea fields makes it a memorable outing.

Yet, potential visitors should be aware of the limited guidance and possibility of crowds, especially in production and photo spots. It’s best suited for those who enjoy independent exploration and stunning natural scenery, rather than those seeking in-depth guided storytelling or exclusive experiences.

At its core, the tour is a solid way to enjoy Hangzhou’s famed tea landscape without breaking the bank. For travelers with a flexible attitude and a love for beautiful, farm-fresh moments, this experience can leave a lasting impression of China’s tea heartland.

FAQs

Is there a guide included throughout the tour?
The tour includes a guide, but some reviews indicate that guidance may be limited, with minimal answers or interaction. You might find it more self-directed than fully guided.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a camera for photos, and water are recommended to stay comfortable and capture the scenery.

Can I pick my own tea leaves?
Yes, the tour offers a chance to pick your own tea leaves in the tea fields, making it a hands-on experience.

What is included in the $85 price?
You get to visit the tea production area, taste fresh Longjing tea, enjoy a tea snack, and stroll through the Internet-famous tea garden.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly designed for children, the walking and scenic aspects can appeal to families, provided children are comfortable in outdoor settings.

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

Overall, this experience is best for travelers seeking scenic beauty and authentic tea moments, rather than those after a guided, educational tour. With some patience and an adventurous spirit, you’ll come away with memorable views and maybe even a few freshly picked leaves.

You can check availability for your dates here: