Longjing (Dragon Well): China's Most Famous Green Tea
Longjing (龙井, “Dragon Well”) from Hangzhou is the green tea by which others are judged in China — smooth, flat, and unmistakably elegant.
What It Looks Like
The leaves are flat and smooth, pressed straight during pan-firing (a defining step that gives Longjing its toasty, chestnut sweetness and stops oxidation). The brewed cup is a clear, light green-yellow.
Flavor
- Sweet and nutty (think toasted chestnut)
- Smooth, almost no bitterness when brewed correctly
- A clean, lingering finish
How to Brew
Water at 75–80°C (never boiling), ~3 g per 150 ml, steep 1–2 minutes. A glass cup shows the leaves standing upright — part of the charm.
Buying Tips
- Look for Xi Hu (West Lake) region for the premium version, though neighboring areas make good everyday Longjing too.
- Freshness is everything: buy the current spring harvest.
- Beware very cheap “Longjing” — much is imitation from other provinces.
Why It Matters
Longjing is the gateway green tea: forgiving, fragrant, and quintessentially Chinese. Mastering its gentle brewing is a small but satisfying step into the world of fine tea.
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