The Jingshan Tea Ceremony is a unique folk event originating from the Jingshan Wanshou Zen Temple in Yuhang District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. It represents a vibrant, living tradition of China's Zen tea culture. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty and flourishing during the Song Dynasty, this elaborate grand hall tea ceremony was historically used by the ancient Jingshan Temple to entertain distinguished guests. It encompasses over ten procedures, including posting the tea notice, drum signaling, inviting guests in, offering incense to Buddha, pouring tea, serving tea cups, giving guidance after tea, and expressing gratitude before leaving. It masterfully blends the ritual of tea drinking with formal etiquette and the profound meaning of Zen. In 2022, the Jingshan Tea Ceremony was formally inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as part of the broader submission, "Traditional Tea Processing Techniques and Associated Social Practices in China."

Top Pick for Visitors

Jingshan Wanshou Zen Temple, Yuhang District, Hangzhou: The birthplace of the Tea Ceremony, offering the most authentic ritual experience.

What to Expect

Experience the Essence of "Tea and Zen in Harmony": Through the solemn ritual of offering and savoring tea, you can quietly internalize the shared spiritual depth connecting Buddhist philosophy and the Way of Tea.

Immerse Yourself in Song Dynasty Aesthetics: The Jingshan Tea Ceremony is a key heritage of the Song Dynasty dian cha (tea-whisking) method, allowing you to observe and experience its core artistry and feel the elegant charm of that era.

Complete a Journey of Spiritual Cultivation: This is more than just a culinary pleasure; it is an internal voyage that allows the mind and body to withdraw from the everyday clamor and return to tranquility.

Reservation

The Jingshan Zen Temple regularly hosts public tea ceremony experiences. Visitors can secure a spot by following the official WeChat account, "径山禅寺" (Jingshan Temple) to make a reservation, or by inquiring in person upon arrival.

Duration

A complete tea ceremony ritual and its associated activities generally take between 1.5 and 3 hours.