Location and Natural Environment
Jingshan Tea Garden lies in the Golden Tea Belt (黄金产茶带), situated at 30° north latitude and enveloped by the majestic Tianmu Mountain Range (天目山脉). With an elevation of 1,095 meters at the mountain’s peak, this area enjoys an ideal climate for tea cultivation. The region’s high rainfall (over 1,400 mm annually) and rich, mineral-laden yellow-red soil (黄红壤) provide a perfect environment for growing high-quality tea. The dense forests (with a 96% forest coverage rate) and frequent mist and cloud cover further contribute to the unique growing conditions.
Size and Tea Production
The Jingshan Village (径山村) is the heart of the tea garden, spanning over 3,000 acres of tea plantations. With an annual tea output of more than 70,000 kilograms, the garden has a significant economic impact, generating over 100 million yuan in revenue each year. Some of the premium teas produced here are sold by weight, catering to high-end tea markets.
Tea Varieties and Their Characteristics
Major Tea Varieties
Jingshan Tea Garden mainly produces green tea (绿茶), but in recent years, it has expanded its offerings to include other varieties such as black tea (红茶), matcha (抹茶), tuocha (团茶), and Fuyou tea (福佑茶). These different types of tea contribute to the garden’s diversified product line, meeting the tastes and preferences of a global market.
Quality Features
Jingshan’s premium teas are renowned for their delicate qualities. The first flush tea leaves are handpicked, featuring a one-bud, one-leaf or two-leaf picking method, ensuring only the finest leaves are used. These leaves are carefully processed to preserve their delicate orchid fragrance, sweet aftertaste, and vibrant green color when brewed. The tea’s soup is bright and clear, exuding a mountain sweetness and a long-lasting refreshing aftertaste.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Zen Tea Culture
Jingshan Temple (径山寺), dating back to the Tang Dynasty (唐朝), played a pivotal role in shaping Zen tea culture in China. The temple is famous for creating the Jingshan Tea Banquet (径山茶宴), a ceremonial tea event that became a model for tea ceremonies. This practice significantly influenced both Chinese and Japanese tea traditions, especially the development of the Japanese Tea Ceremony (茶道).
Today, visitors can still witness traditional tea preparation techniques, including tea whisking, which is considered a heritage technique of the area. The Zen Tea Culture here is a fusion of spirituality, tea, and nature, emphasizing the meditative aspect of tea preparation and consumption.
Industrial and Cultural Development
In recent years, the Jingshan Tea Garden has embraced modernization while maintaining its traditional roots. The garden now produces tea-infused products, such as tea polyphenol masks and tea-flavored lipsticks, combining Zen culture with modern consumer goods. The area has also developed cultural tourism initiatives, such as the Ten Scenic Spots of Zen Village (禅村十景), enhancing its appeal to both tea lovers and tourists.
Ecological and Technological Practices
Green Agriculture and Sustainability
The garden has adopted a strong commitment to eco-friendly farming practices. With 88 green-certified tea gardens (covering 18,000 acres) and 3,415 acres of organic-certified tea gardens, Jingshan is leading in sustainable tea cultivation. The adoption of electric tea frying machines reduces carbon emissions, and the use of carbon labels ensures transparency in the production process, allowing consumers to trace the environmental impact of the tea they purchase.
Smart and Low-carbon Technology
The Jingshan Village is also known for its integration of smart and low-carbon technologies. The village is equipped with solar-powered street lamps, wireless charging benches, and other low-carbon infrastructure. It has been recognized as a national zero-carbon village (零碳村镇试点), setting an example for sustainability in rural China.
Tourism and Visitor Activities
Tea Picking Experience
One of the highlights for visitors is the opportunity to hand-pick tea leaves during the spring harvest season. Guided by experienced local farmers, tourists can learn the traditional techniques used to select the finest leaves. The experience provides a hands-on insight into the hard work behind every cup of tea.
Tea Tasting and Ceremony
At Jingshan Tea Garden, visitors can enjoy tea tasting sessions where they can savor the delicate flavors of freshly brewed tea. Expert tea masters offer explanations about the various types of tea, brewing methods, and the cultural significance of each variety. Visitors can also participate in a traditional Jingshan tea ceremony, which is a calming, spiritual practice that highlights the Zen connection between tea and mindfulness.
Cultural Exploration
Jingshan offers more than just tea activities. Jingshan Mountain (径山) is a perfect place for scenic hikes, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also visit the Jingshan Temple (径山寺), an important historical site that has influenced both tea culture and Zen Buddhism. The Zen Village (禅村) offers visitors the chance to explore Zen culture, including meditation and traditional tea preparation.
Jingshan Tea Garden in Hangzhou is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and high-quality tea production. It offers a unique and immersive experience where visitors can explore the origins of Zen tea culture, learn about sustainable farming practices, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of one of China’s most famous tea-producing areas. Whether you are an avid tea enthusiast, a history lover, or someone seeking a tranquil retreat in nature, Jingshan Tea Garden provides an unforgettable journey into the world of Chinese tea culture.
