Following the launch of the first 25 tea spaces designated as provincial-level intangible cultural heritage sites last May, Zhejiang has recently announced a second group of such spaces. Among the 75 newly designated tea spaces, Hangzhou’s picturesque West Lake Scenic Area is home to four: Fuyuntang, Chenghuang Tea House, Minghuang, and Shusheng Xunzhen.
These designated tea spaces play a crucial role in preserving and promoting tea-related intangible cultural heritage. They offer a vibrant new cultural experience that seamlessly blends lifestyle, aesthetics, tea culture, and tourism.
The tea spaces within the West Lake Scenic Area provide a setting for visitors to appreciate both the stunning scenery of the West Lake and the rich cultural heritage of Longjing tea. For example, Fuyuntang, located at the Zijiu Thatched Cottage on the West Lake (directly across from Jihong Bridge), hosts various cultural activities, including tea gatherings, tea ceremony demonstrations, and art exhibitions. By using tea as a central element, Fuyuntang creates a classical artistic setting to enhance their appreciation of the mesmerizing beauty of West Lake.
Chenghuang Pavilion in the Wushan District, already well-known for its panoramic views of Hangzhou, now offers a refined tea experience at the Chenghuang Tea House. Located on the Pavilion’s third floor, the teahouse draws inspiration from the Legend of Chenghuang, a vital intangible cultural heritage project of the West Lake Scenic Area. Imbued with the charm of Hangzhou’s folk heritage, it showcases and sells tea products (primarily Longjing tea), traditional tea-time snacks, and tea ware. Here, visitors can also enjoy demonstrations of Song Dynasty tea preparation techniques and the brewing process of Longjing tea. Throughout the year, the teahouse regularly hosts a diverse array of intangible cultural heritage workshops tied to traditional festivals and solar terms. These workshops include tea making, pastry making, paper cutting, the Four Arts of the Song Dynasty, and handmade crafts inspired by the 24 solar terms.
Tea spaces nestled within tea villages across the scenic area offer tranquil retreats for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation and a genuine tea experience. One such haven is Minghuang, located in Jilongshan, Xihu Street, which was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage Themed Homestay in 2023. With over 500 square meters of indoor space and 300 square meters of outdoor space dedicated to tea events, plus more than 50 mu (approximately 33,333 m²) of tea gardens, Minghuang is not only a place for tea production, sales, and cultural heritage preservation—it also provides accommodation, organizes hands-on activities, and offers visitors a truly immersive journey into tea culture. Another notable tea space is Shusheng Xunzhen, situated within the Shifeng Tea Garden, which spans 10 mu (approximately 6,666 m²) of land. The venue artfully weaves elements of intangible cultural heritage into its interior design, creating a truly distinctive atmosphere. Its restaurants, private dining rooms, and guestrooms are thoughtfully furnished with tea tables, creating a unique ambiance that invites guests to immerse themselves in the rich culture of tea while savoring its refined flavors.
