Hangzhou: Jingshan Zen Temple & Tea Hills Day Trip

Find calm and authentic culture on this gentle private day trip from Hangzhou to the green hills of Jingshan, the birthplace of Chinese tea ceremony tradition. Your day starts with a comfortable pickup from your Hangzhou hotel, then a scenic drive in your own private car with an English-speaking guide.

This is a relaxed, meditative outing rather than a strenuous hike. You will wander winding bamboo-lined paths, look out over terraced mountain tea gardens and follow a gentle trail to the hidden Nine-Dragon waterfall tucked in the forest. The highlight is a visit to Jingshan Temple, a venerable Zen Buddhist monastery founded in the Tang dynasty over 1,200 years ago, where the sound of temple bells drifts through the mist. Your guide explains the temple's deep connection to Zen practice and to Japanese tea culture, and you can join a simple blessing or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

The pace stays easy throughout, with plenty of time for photos, quiet reflection and a stroll among the tea bushes. A relaxed home-style local lunch is included, often featuring fresh mountain vegetables and local tea. This day suits travelers seeking serenity, scenery, tea culture and a genuine taste of spiritual China without any tough walking.

After an unhurried afternoon among temples, bamboo and tea, you are driven comfortably back to your Hangzhou hotel.

A serene private day from Hangzhou to Jingshan. Stroll bamboo trails and high tea gardens, visit a 1,200-year-old Zen temple and a hidden waterfall with an English guide, private car and lunch.