Longjing Tea, also known as Dragon Well Tea, is one of the most famous Chinese green teas. Renowned for its flat, jade-green leaves and refreshing chestnut-like aroma, it has been treasured for centuries as both a daily beverage and a cultural symbol of springtime.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The best teaware for brewing Longjing
- Step-by-step brewing methods (glass cup & gaiwan)
- Pro tips to bring out the tea’s fragrance and sweetness
- The unique health benefits of Longjing tea
Choosing the Right Teaware
When brewing Longjing, two types of teaware are most commonly used:
- Tall Glass Cup – Perfect for watching the tea leaves unfurl and “dance” in the water.
- Porcelain Gaiwan – A traditional Chinese brewing vessel that preserves aroma and allows for multiple steeps.
Both work well, so it comes down to your preference: visual enjoyment with glass, or precise control with a gaiwan.
Brewing Longjing Tea in a Glass Cup
- Warm the Cup – Rinse your glass with boiling water to keep the brewing temperature stable.
- Tea-to-Water Ratio – Use about 3 grams of tea for 300 ml of water (1:100 ratio).
- Smell the Dry Leaves – Add tea leaves into the warm cup and enjoy the nutty, bean-like aroma.
- Two-Step Water Pouring –
- First, pour 200 ml of hot water (around 80–85°C / 176–185°F) along the cup wall.
- Wait for 30 seconds to let the leaves awaken.
- Then, top up with the remaining water.
This prevents over-extraction and helps balance fragrance with taste.
- Sip and Refill – Don’t wait until the cup is empty before refilling. Keep some tea liquor at the bottom to maintain consistent flavor.
Brewing Longjing Tea in a Gaiwan
- Preheat the Gaiwan – Rinse with hot water to warm it up.
- Tea-to-Water Ratio – Use 3–4 grams of tea for a 110 ml gaiwan (about 1:30 ratio).
- First Steep – Add hot water (80–85°C), cover, and let it steam for 60 seconds before pouring out.
- Subsequent Steeps – Use the “fixed-point pour” method (pour water directly onto the same spot) and steep for about 30 seconds, adding 30 seconds with each infusion.
- Important Tip – Always remove the lid after pouring out the tea. Avoid trapping steam, which can affect both aroma and taste.
The result? A cup of Longjing that is fresh, fragrant, sweet, and lingering—like the taste of spring.
Health Benefits of Longjing Tea
Longjing is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle. Some key benefits include:
- Rich in Antioxidants – High in catechins and polyphenols that help fight free radicals and slow aging.
- Supports Heart Health – May help reduce cholesterol and improve circulation.
- Boosts Metabolism – Often associated with weight management and fat burning.
- Enhances Mental Focus – Contains L-theanine and moderate caffeine for calm alertness.
- Aids Digestion – Gentle on the stomach and helps balance the digestive system.
- Stress Relief – The refreshing aroma and mild sweetness promote relaxation.
- https://pressbooks.cuny.edu/teaset/chapter/hangzhou-west-lake-longjing-tea/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Final Thoughts
Longjing Tea (Dragon Well Tea) is more than just a beverage—it’s a cultural experience and a healthy daily ritual. By using the right teaware, mastering the pouring technique, and appreciating its subtle flavors, you can fully enjoy this legendary green tea.
Next time you brew Longjing, take a moment to watch the leaves float gracefully and inhale the fresh aroma—it’s like bringing spring into your cup.
