When Is Hangzhou's Tea Culture Festival?

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is one of China's most famous tea-producing regions, particularly known for Longjing (Dragon Well) tea. This city is deeply intertwined with tea culture, history, and traditions, making it the perfect place for a tea culture festival. Every year, Hangzhou hosts the China International Tea Culture Festival, an event that attracts tea lovers, industry professionals, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world.

Dates and Timing of Hangzhou’s Tea Culture Festival

Annual Schedule

The China International Tea Culture Festival is typically held in spring, between late March and early May. The specific dates vary each year, but the festival is usually scheduled to coincide with the spring tea harvest, when fresh Longjing tea leaves are at their peak.

• Main event period: Late March – Early May
• Peak activities: Around April 20, which is also Gu Yu (Grain Rain), an important date for harvesting premium Longjing tea
• Duration: Approximately one to two weeks, depending on the year and event organization

Why Spring?

Spring is the best season for tea harvesting, particularly for Longjing tea, which is most valuable when picked before Gu Yu. The festival celebrates the first flush of Longjing tea, known as Mingqian tea, which is considered the highest grade of the year due to its delicate flavor and rich nutrients.

Main Events and Activities at the Tea Culture Festival

1. Longjing Tea Harvesting Experience

One of the most exciting activities is the tea-picking experience in Hangzhou’s renowned Longjing tea plantations. Visitors can:

• Learn how to identify high-quality tea leaves
• Pick fresh Longjing tea leaves alongside local tea farmers
• Experience the traditional hand-roasting process

Popular locations for this experience include:

• Longjing Village (the birthplace of Longjing tea)
• Meijiawu Tea Plantation (famous for its well-preserved tea culture)
• Shifeng Mountain Tea Gardens (home to some of the finest Longjing tea)

2. Tea Tasting Events and Workshops

The festival offers tea tasting sessions led by tea masters who explain the proper techniques for brewing and appreciating Longjing tea. Activities include:

• Comparing different grades of Longjing tea
• Learning the six major tea types in China
• Understanding the ideal water temperature and brewing methods

Many tea houses and cultural centers in Hangzhou, such as China National Tea Museum and Hugong Temple Tea House, hold special tea ceremonies during the festival.

3. Tea Culture Exhibitions

Various exhibitions showcase:

• The history and evolution of Chinese tea culture
• Antique teapots, tea cups, and traditional tea-making tools
• The impact of tea on poetry, calligraphy, and painting

The China National Tea Museum hosts one of the most detailed tea exhibitions, featuring interactive experiences and historical artifacts.

4. International Tea Trade and Business Forums

The festival is not just about tea appreciation—it is also a major event for the tea industry. Tea farmers, exporters, and business professionals gather to discuss:

• New trends in tea production
• Global tea trade opportunities
• Sustainable and organic tea farming

This is an excellent opportunity for tea enthusiasts to purchase high-quality Longjing tea directly from local farmers.

5. Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony Performances

Visitors can witness beautifully choreographed tea ceremonies, including:

• Gongfu tea ceremonies, a highly skilled traditional brewing technique
• Matcha whisking demonstrations, showing the influence of Chinese tea culture on Japan
• Dances and performances inspired by ancient tea rituals

These performances often take place at cultural landmarks such as Lingyin Temple and West Lake Tea Houses.

6. Tea and Food Pairing Experiences

The festival also highlights the connection between tea and food. Special tea-infused dishes are served at local restaurants, including:

• Longjing Shrimp (stir-fried shrimp with Longjing tea leaves)
• Tea-flavored pastries
• West Lake Fish in Vinegar Sauce paired with tea

Where to Experience the Tea Festival in Hangzhou

1. Longjing Village

Located in the West Lake Scenic Area, Longjing Village is the heart of Hangzhou’s tea culture. During the festival, visitors can walk through tea gardens, meet tea farmers, and taste freshly brewed Longjing tea.

2. Meijiawu Tea Plantation

This village is famous for its centuries-old tea farming traditions. During the festival, Meijiawu hosts:

• Tea-picking and roasting workshops
• Traditional tea house performances
• Exclusive tea tastings

3. China National Tea Museum

As China’s only national tea museum, this venue provides a comprehensive look at tea history, culture, and production. During the festival, it holds:

• Tea exhibitions
• Educational tea workshops
• Live demonstrations of ancient tea-making techniques

4. West Lake Tea Houses

Several traditional tea houses around West Lake offer special tea-tasting experiences during the festival, including:

• Hugong Temple Tea House
• Louwailou Restaurant (famous for tea-infused cuisine)
• Chaptel Tea House (luxurious tea experience in a historic setting)

Tips for Attending the Tea Culture Festival

1. Best Time to Visit

• Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially at Longjing Village and Meijiawu.
• The festival peaks in mid-April, so visiting around April 15–25 is ideal.

2. What to Wear and Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes (tea plantations have steep paths)
• Sun hat and sunglasses (April sunshine can be strong)
• A thermos or tea cup (many locations offer free refills of Longjing tea)

3. Where to Buy the Best Longjing Tea

To ensure authenticity and quality, buy Longjing tea from:

• Certified tea shops in Longjing Village
• China National Tea Museum’s official store
• Reputable tea brands such as Zhuyeqing or Wuyutai

4. How to Get to the Tea Festival Locations

• From downtown Hangzhou: Take Bus 27 or Bus 87 to Longjing Village.
• By taxi or ride-hailing app: A Didi ride from West Lake to Meijiawu costs about ¥20–¥40.
• By bike: Many visitors rent bikes and cycle through the scenic tea fields.

Hangzhou’s China International Tea Culture Festival is a must-visit for tea lovers and cultural enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in tea-picking, tasting, or learning about the deep traditions of Chinese tea culture, this event offers a truly immersive experience in one of the world’s most famous tea regions.