About Green Tea
Green Tea (绿茶) is the oldest and most traditional type of Chinese tea. Unlike black or oolong teas, green tea is not oxidized, preserving its natural color and delicate flavors. It has been consumed in China for thousands of years and is celebrated for its health benefits and refreshing taste.
Famous Varieties
- Longjing (龙井) - Dragon Well Tea from Hangzhou
- Biluochun (碧螺春) - Green Snail Spring from Jiangsu
- Huangshan Maofeng (黄山毛峰) - Yellow Mountain Fur Peak
- Xinyang Maojian (信阳毛尖) - Xinyang Fur Tip
- Anji White Tea (安吉白茶) - Actually a green tea despite its name
Brewing Process
- Heat water to 70-80°C (158-176°F)
- Rinse tea leaves with hot water
- Add 2-3 grams of tea leaves per cup
- Pour hot water over leaves
- Steep for 1-3 minutes
- Serve and enjoy multiple infusions
Health Benefits
- Rich in antioxidants
- Promotes heart health
- Supports brain function
- May aid in weight management
- Contains natural caffeine
- Supports immune system
Cultural Significance
Green tea holds a special place in Chinese culture, symbolizing purity, harmony, and respect. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and is an essential part of daily life. The art of growing, processing, and serving green tea has been refined over thousands of years, creating a rich tradition that continues to influence tea culture worldwide.
Where to Experience
Some of the best places to experience authentic green tea culture include:
- Hangzhou's West Lake - Home of Longjing tea
- Huangshan Mountains - Source of Maofeng tea
- Xinyang - Famous for Maojian tea
- Traditional tea houses throughout China
Serving and Appreciation
Green tea is best enjoyed in small cups that allow you to appreciate its color, aroma, and taste. The first infusion is often the most delicate, with subsequent infusions revealing different aspects of the tea's character. Traditional Chinese tea appreciation involves observing the color, smelling the aroma, and savoring the taste, creating a complete sensory experience.