Longjing tea

What is Longjing tea?

Longjing tea is a type of green tea known for its flat, smooth leaves and light green to yellow-green color. When brewed, it produces a clear, pale infusion with a sweet, mellow taste and sometimes a hint of chestnut or fresh grass. The leaves are shaped by hand during pan-roasting, which gives them their signature appearance. High-quality Longjing tea is tender, with uniform leaves and a delicate aroma. The tea is rich in amino acids, vitamin C, and catechins, contributing to its fresh flavor and nutritional value.

Where does Longjing tea come from?

Longjing tea comes from the area around Longjing village near West Lake in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, China. It is named after a historic well in the village, known as the Dragon Well. The tea is considered one of China's most famous teas and has a long association with the region's climate and landscape. Its status as a protected product means only tea from certain areas can be called authentic Longjing. Stories and legends connect the tea to imperial recognition in the Qing dynasty, and some bushes in the area are still regarded as especially valuable.

How is Longjing tea made?

The process starts with picking young tea shoots, mainly in early spring. After picking, the leaves are spread out to dry for several hours, then pan-roasted by hand in a hot wok. This step stops oxidation and shapes the leaves into their flat form. The roasting involves a series of gentle pressing, tossing, and shaping motions. The finished tea is sorted by grade, with the best leaves coming from the earliest harvests before the Qingming Festival in April. The tea is then packed and ready for brewing.

How and when is Longjing tea eaten?

Longjing tea is enjoyed throughout the day and is often served to guests or at gatherings. It is typically brewed with hot water, allowing the leaves to unfurl and release their flavor. The tea is drunk plain, without milk or sugar, to highlight its natural sweetness and aroma. In China, it is a symbol of hospitality and is sometimes given as a gift, especially in its premium forms. The drink is valued both for its taste and its connection to Hangzhou's culture.

Kinds of Longjing tea

Several types of Longjing tea are tied to specific locations around West Lake, such as Shi Feng (Lion Peak), Meijiawu, and Tiger Spring. Each has subtle differences in taste and aroma, shaped by local soil and water. Outside the protected area, teas labeled as Longjing may come from other parts of Zhejiang or even other provinces, but these are generally less prized. Some newer varieties, like Bai Longjing, are made from different tea plants and have unique qualities, but are not considered true Longjing.

What Longjing tea means

Longjing tea holds a special place in Chinese tea culture and is often associated with refinement and tradition. Its production is protected by law in China and the European Union, reflecting its importance. The tea is a common gift and is featured in ceremonies and hospitality. The most sought-after batches, especially those from famous old bushes, can fetch high prices and are sometimes auctioned. The tea's reputation has also led to many imitations, making authenticity a point of pride for producers in Hangzhou.

Questions people ask about Longjing tea

Good reading and sources

• Longjing tea on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data