Longjing Tea Harvesting & Ceremony

About this activity

Walk the hillside rows of Longjing (Dragon Well) with a grower who knows the seasonal picking rhythm by heart. You’ll learn how temperature and timing change the leaf, try hand-picking the standard “one bud, two leaves,” and finish with a seated tasting that compares pre-Qingming leaves with everyday harvests—so you leave understanding why this tea commands its reputation.

What you’ll do

1. Meet at the village edge and walk 10 minutes into the certified plantation overlooking West Lake’s western hills.
2. Short intro to cultivars (Longjing #43 vs. group plantings) and how organic patches are maintained.
3. Limited hands-on picking window with guidance on finger pressure and leaf selection.
4. Watch a wok-firing demo (or shoulder season: rolling & drying step) at the family workshop.
5. Guided tasting of two infusions with water temperature and timing called out—plus snacks that pair with green tea.

What’s included

• Host and small-group facilitation
• Plantation access & picking tools during the activity
• Tea tasting set & light local snacks
• Printed take-home tasting notes (English)

Not included

• Hotel pickup (available as add-on in some seasons—ask after booking)
• Retail tea purchases at the farm shop (optional)

Meeting point

Outside the Meijiawu village visitor kiosk, west of West Lake. Exact pin and public-bus options are sent in your confirmation. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early for name check.

Good to know

• Moderate walking on uneven paths; wear closed shoes with grip.
• April–early May is peak picking; other months emphasize processing & tasting.
• Children welcome; under 12 should be supervised near wok heat.

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before start for a full refund, unless otherwise noted in checkout. Weather-dependent outdoor segments may be shortened with host notice.