The First Meijiawu International Tea Poetry Gathering is held in Hangzhou. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

The First Meijiawu International Tea Poetry Gathering was held on March 25 in Hangzhou – capital of East China's Zhejiang province – welcoming tea enthusiasts from the United States, Russia, Argentina, Mexico and Armenia under the theme of "Sharing Chinese Tea, Embracing Longjing's Charm".

At Meijiawu, one of the major West Lake Longjing tea plantations in Hangzhou, guests explored time-honored tea culture through poetry, tastings and discussions.

An expat tea enthusiast recites a poem on tea. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Attendees marveled at the tea's delicate flavors and the scenic tea gardens. A live poetry recital featured both classical Chinese verse and original works, fostering cross-cultural appreciation. The event also marked the launch of a Tea Poetry Creation Base, which seeks to further promote Chinese tea culture worldwide.

With the 2025 West Lake Longjing tea harvest now underway, new traceability technology is ensuring authenticity.

Master-crafted Longjing teas were introduced, blending tradition with innovation. "Beyond tasting Longjing tea, we felt the timeless beauty of Chinese tea culture," declared one of the guests.

Freshly picked West Lake Longjing tea is stir-fried. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Artists stir-fry tea that is freshly picked. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]