The Chinese were the first Tea drinking people in the world, from where tea was exported all over the world, consequently becoming one of the most popular beverages. It is said that tea was accidentally discovered by Emperor Shen Nung (also known as Shennong, Yan Emperor or “Emperor of the five grains”) over 5,000 years ago, when it was found to be an antidote to the poisonous results of certain herbal medicines.

And so it is no wonder that some of the most beautiful and scenic tea estates in the world are to be found in China, where jaded travelers and curious tourists alike may find a holiday experience like no other. We have spoken before about the tea estate as a possible holiday destination; let’s talk some more about this:

The Long Jing Tea Plantation Area in Hangzhou

Close to Shanghai, it is a classic example of the beautiful tea estates of China. Hangzhou is one of the most renowned and prosperous cities of China and is also well-known for its beautiful natural scenery, with the West Lake and the Long Jing tea growing regions.

The world famous Longjing tea is produced here.  Long Jing roughly translates as Dragon Well. According to one famous story, the emperor once stayed in this area while in disguise. He had a dream that the surrounding area of hills and valleys was actually a giant dragon in slumber. Supposedly the dragon spoke to the emperor in the dream and foretold a wonderful future, which is why the area was known as Dragon well.

It is the special mineral rich water of this area that is said to imbue the tea with a very particular flavor.  There are several tea estates in the Long Jing area which offer tea-tastings, tours of their facilities, and various educational lectures about tea.

You can even enjoy a weekend getaway visiting the tea plantations.  For cycling enthusiasts, the winding lanes criss-crossing the tea estates make for a marvelous experience where it is also possible to see the harvesting and processing of the tea.

The Meijiawu Tea Plantation

This is a family owned enterprise. It offers tourists the chance to tour the facilities, experience some tea tasting and even try their hand at some tea picking.

Not only is it a relaxing and educative experience, you get the chance to buy tea directly from the sellers; a product as authentic as can be. They also make for great gifts to carry back.

Tags: Chinese, holiday, Longjing, plantation, tea, tea estate