China is the birthplace of green tea, with a history spanning thousands of years. Over time, the country has developed a diverse range of green tea varieties, each with unique characteristics, flavors, and cultural significance. From the renowned Longjing (Dragon Well) tea of Hangzhou to the delicate Biluochun of Jiangsu, fresh green tea plays an essential role in Chinese tea culture.
This article explores some of the most famous fresh green tea varieties in China, their unique qualities, regions of production, and why they are cherished by tea enthusiasts worldwide.
1. Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea – The King of Chinese Green Tea
A. Origin and History
Longjing (龙井) tea originates from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, and is one of China’s most prestigious green teas. The tea has been highly regarded since the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) and was designated as an imperial tribute tea during the Qing Dynasty.
B. Characteristics
✔ Leaf Shape: Flat, smooth, and emerald green.
✔ Aroma: Refreshing and nutty with a hint of orchid.
✔ Taste: Sweet, mellow, with a chestnut-like undertone.
✔ Liquor: Clear and golden-green.
C. Why It’s Special
Longjing tea is hand-roasted using a traditional pan-firing technique, which enhances its toasty, sweet, and slightly vegetal flavor. The highest-quality Longjing comes from the West Lake (Xihu) region, known for its ideal climate and mineral-rich soil.
2. Biluochun – The Fragrant Green Spiral
A. Origin and History
Biluochun (碧螺春), meaning “Green Snail Spring,” comes from Dongting Mountain in Jiangsu Province. This tea has been praised since the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) for its exquisite aroma and delicate taste.
B. Characteristics
✔ Leaf Shape: Tightly rolled, spiral-shaped leaves with white fuzz.
✔ Aroma: Floral and fruity with a hint of apricot.
✔ Taste: Sweet, refreshing, and slightly tangy.
✔ Liquor: Light yellow-green.
C. Why It’s Special
Biluochun tea leaves are harvested in early spring, making them tender and rich in amino acids and antioxidants. The unique growing environment, where tea plants are interplanted with fruit trees, gives Biluochun its distinct fruity-floral fragrance.
3. Huangshan Maofeng – The Yellow Mountain Fur Peak
A. Origin and History
Huangshan Maofeng (黄山毛峰) comes from the famous Yellow Mountain (Huangshan) region in Anhui Province. It was first produced during the Qing Dynasty and quickly became a favorite among scholars and tea lovers.
B. Characteristics
✔ Leaf Shape: Slender, slightly curled leaves covered in fine white hairs.
✔ Aroma: Fresh, floral, with a light vegetal note.
✔ Taste: Sweet, smooth, with a lingering aftertaste.
✔ Liquor: Pale green with a slight golden hue.
C. Why It’s Special
The high-altitude, misty climate of Huangshan provides the perfect conditions for tea cultivation. The tender leaves are carefully handpicked and processed to preserve their natural sweetness and delicate fragrance.
4. Taiping Houkui – The Monkey King Tea
A. Origin and History
Taiping Houkui (太平猴魁) is grown in Taiping County, Anhui Province, and is known for its large, elegant tea leaves. It gained fame in the early 20th century and has since become one of China’s most sought-after green teas.
B. Characteristics
✔ Leaf Shape: Long, flat, and sword-like, often reaching up to 6 cm in length.
✔ Aroma: Orchid-like with a fresh, sweet scent.
✔ Taste: Mildly sweet with a refreshing aftertaste.
✔ Liquor: Clear and light green.
C. Why It’s Special
Taiping Houkui is unique due to its large leaves and intricate hand-processing method. Unlike other green teas, it is not rolled or twisted, allowing it to retain more natural flavors and essential oils.
5. Lu’an Guapian – The Melon Seed Tea
A. Origin and History
Lu’an Guapian (六安瓜片) originates from Lu’an, Anhui Province. It is unique among green teas because only the mature leaves are used, rather than buds or tender shoots.
B. Characteristics
✔ Leaf Shape: Flat and oval, resembling melon seeds.
✔ Aroma: Refreshing and slightly floral.
✔ Taste: Smooth, slightly nutty, with a long-lasting sweetness.
✔ Liquor: Light yellow-green.
C. Why It’s Special
Lu’an Guapian undergoes a special roasting process, giving it a distinct toasty aroma and full-bodied taste. Unlike other green teas, it does not contain buds, resulting in less bitterness and more complexity in flavor.
6. Xinyang Maojian – The Delicate Spring Buds
A. Origin and History
Xinyang Maojian (信阳毛尖) is grown in Henan Province and is one of China’s most well-known green teas. It has been produced for over 1,000 years, dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
B. Characteristics
✔ Leaf Shape: Fine, needle-like leaves covered in silver fuzz.
✔ Aroma: Grassy, with a slight floral scent.
✔ Taste: Refreshing, slightly sweet, with a crisp finish.
✔ Liquor: Pale green with a clear, bright appearance.
C. Why It’s Special
The tea grows in high-altitude, misty mountains, which enhances its amino acid content and gives it a smooth, umami-rich taste.
7. Anji Bai Cha – The White Green Tea
A. Origin and History
Anji Bai Cha (安吉白茶) comes from Anji County, Zhejiang Province. Despite its name (“White Tea”), it is actually a green tea variety. The name comes from its light-colored leaves, which resemble white tea.
B. Characteristics
✔ Leaf Shape: Thin, slightly curled, with a light yellow-green hue.
✔ Aroma: Sweet, floral, and delicate.
✔ Taste: Light, smooth, with a hint of chestnut.
✔ Liquor: Pale green with a golden tinge.
C. Why It’s Special
Anji Bai Cha has exceptionally high levels of L-theanine, making it one of the most calming and soothing green teas. It is highly prized for its light, elegant taste and refreshing qualities.
Conclusion: A Rich World of Chinese Fresh Green Teas
China’s fresh green teas are as diverse as the landscapes they come from. Each variety has its own unique flavor profile, history, and brewing techniques, making them beloved by tea connoisseurs worldwide.
Whether you prefer the toasty sweetness of Longjing, the fruity aroma of Biluochun, or the delicate elegance of Anji Bai Cha, there is a green tea to suit every palate. Drinking fresh Chinese green tea is not just about flavor—it’s about experiencing centuries of tradition, craftsmanship, and nature’s finest gifts.
Which Chinese green tea would you like to try next? 🍵