Discover the World-Famous Longjing Tea: A Guide to the History and Culture of Chinese Tea

2023-07-23 11:19:37

Longjing tea, also known as Dragon Well tea, is one of the most famous types of Chinese green tea. It is grown in the West Lake area of Hangzhou, the capital city of Zhejiang province in eastern China. Longjing tea has a long and rich history, and is a significant part of Chinese tea culture.

History of Longjing Tea

The history of Longjing tea can be traced back to the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD). It is said that a monk planted the first tea trees on the Lion Peak Mountain in Hangzhou. During the Song dynasty (960-1279 AD), Longjing tea became famous and was even presented as a tribute to the imperial court. In the Ming dynasty (1368-1644 AD), Longjing tea was granted the status of "Imperial Tea" and was exported abroad, becoming a symbol of Chinese culture.

Culture of Chinese Tea

Tea culture is an important part of Chinese culture. It is not only about drinking tea, but also about the art of making tea and the etiquette surrounding it. In Chinese tea culture, tea is a symbol of hospitality, respect, and harmony. It is used to show appreciation to guests, to apologize, and to build friendships. Chinese tea culture also emphasizes the health benefits of tea, which is believed to have healing properties for the mind and body.

Hangzhou and West Lake

Huangzhou is a beautiful city known for its scenic spots, such as West Lake, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. West Lake is surrounded by tea plantations that produce Longjing tea. Visitors to Hangzhou can enjoy a cup of Longjing tea while admiring the view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. There are many tea houses and tea shops in Hangzhou where visitors can learn about the history and culture of Chinese tea, and purchase high-quality tea leaves to take home.

Conclusion

Longjing tea is not just a drink, but a symbol of Chinese history, culture, and hospitality. It is also a healthy and delicious beverage that can be enjoyed by people all over the world. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Hangzhou, be sure to try a cup of Longjing tea and explore the fascinating world of Chinese tea culture.