When it comes to traditional Chinese teas, Longjing tea ranks near or at the top. In fact, one shop in the basement of Beijing International Tea Market sells Longjing tea exclusively. Here you can find quality Longjing tea at inexpensive prices.

The first thing I saw when I stepped inside were big boxes of tea stacked on the ground. The shop owner told me all these teas came from the tea farmers directly.

They offer two types of Longjing teas, both from Zhejiang province. Xihu Longjing comes from the West Lake region, and Zhejiang Longjing from other parts of the province. As Xihu Longjing tea is rarer, they generally cost 50% more than Zhejiang Longjing.

There are many differences between the two teas. Xihu Longjing is greenish yellow, has thicker leaves, and gives a strong bean aroma. Zhejiang Longjing is greener and features thinner leaves and weaker flavor.

Prices for Xihu Longjing tea range from RMB 50 – 500 per 500 grams, while Zhejiang Longjing sells for RMB 30 – 500, depending on the grade. The shop owner is a nice fellow, and will give you a good price as long as you buy at least 500g. If you buy more than 1.5 kg though, you will get the wholesale price.

What I appreciated

Xihu longjing tea at reasonable prices

What customers appreciate

High-quality Longjing tea, directly from the farm

Taiyuanfang Teahouse is an expert in traditional Chinese tea art.

It is situated on the second floor of its building. The entrance door is guarded by two clay statues of ancient warriors. Classical furniture items line both sides of the corridor. On the left, there are small private rooms. Step ahead, and turn left: a line of traditional Chinese tables and chairs are set alongside the windows. Customers can sit there, and enjoy both a cup of Chinese tea and the outside scenery. Soft classical Chinese music is floating in the air.

On a shelf, many kinds of Yunnan Pu’er teas are on display: their cost ranges from RMB 80 to several thousand yuan. According to a waitress, the house offers over 50 kinds of teas including the famed Longjing, Tie Guanyin and jasmine tea, and a dozen of other refreshments.

If you want to enjoy your tea alone or with a small party, rent a private room RMB 20 for an hour, or RMB 80 if you want to keep it without time limits. Refreshments cost RMB 10 a serving. For a party of five or six customers, the cost per person will amount to RMB 30 to RMB 40 on average. A helping of melon seeds or pistachio nuts will be sent for free to customers.

The teahouse also shelters the Taiyuanfang Bridge Club.

What I appreciated

Elegant atmosphere, quality Chinese tea, classic Chinese furniture, appeasing classical Chinese music.