Location & How to Get There
Jiong Tea is tucked away in a traditional courtyard at 26th Branch, Kuanzhai Alley, Qingyang District, Chengdu. It’s right next to the famous Kuanzhai Alley (a must-visit historic area), so you can’t miss it if you’re exploring that part of old Chengdu. To get there:
- By metro: Jump off at Kuanzhai Alley Station (Line 4) and walk for about 5 minutes.
- By bus: Lines 340 or 58A drop you near the alley.
- Walking: If you’re already wandering through Kuanzhai Alley, just follow the crowds toward the quieter back streets—Jiong Tea’s hidden-gem vibe is part of its charm!
Natural Scenery: A Peaceful Escape
Even though Jiong Tea is in the heart of Chengdu, it feels like a mini oasis. The courtyard is filled with traditional Chinese plants like bamboo and plumpony, with little bridges over tiny streams. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom around the edges, and in summer, the shaded areas are perfect for escaping the heat. At night, paper lanterns light up, making it feel straight out of a movie. It’s a great spot for photos—just point your camera anywhere!
Cultural Experiences: Tea, Crafts, and Stories
Jiong Tea isn’t just about drinking tea—it’s about immersing yourself in Sichuan tea culture. You can watch staff make tea using ancient tools (like those cool long-necked kettles). They even offer tea-making workshops where you can try your hand at whisking matcha or brewing pu-erh. If you’re lucky, they might share stories about how tea has been enjoyed here for centuries. For art lovers, there’s often calligraphy or paper-cutting sessions too—perfect for bringing home a unique souvenir.
Food & Drink: More Than Just Tea
The menu at Jiong Tea goes beyond tea. Try their Sichuan-style snacks like spicy dumplings, dandan noodles, or maple-syrup-covered nuts (a local favorite). The tea selection is huge—from smoky yabao to sweet jasmine. Don’t miss the chrysanthemum tea, which looks fancy but tastes light. If you’re hungry, they serve bowls of hotpot-style tea soup with ginseng slices—trust us, it’s an experience!
Facilities: Cozy but Practical
The space mixes old and new. You’ll find low wooden tables for traditional seating (great for a proper tea ceremony) and modern chairs if you’re not up for kneeling. Free Wi-Fi is available, but honestly, who needs phones when the courtyard is this pretty? There’s also a small shop selling tea leaves, cups, and cute “stressed but made in China” keychains—perfect for last-minute gifts.
Tips for Your Visit
- Best time: Mornings (before crowds) or late evenings (for the magical lights).
- Dress comfy: Some areas have uneven brick floors.
- Don’t miss: The hidden rooftop area, where you can see sunset views of Chengdu’s skyline.
- Photo tip: The red doors and bonsai trees are super Instagram-worthy—use the natural light!
Why Jiong Tea Stands Out
What makes Jiong Tea special? It’s the perfect blend of tradition and chill vibes. Unlike busy tourist spots, here you can actually slow down, sip tea, and feel like you’re stepping into a local’s secret hideout. Even if you’re not a tea expert, the atmosphere alone is worth a visit. Plus, the staff are super friendly and love explaining everything in simple English.
Come for the tea, stay for the stories—and don’t forget to grab a selfie with the giant teapot by the entrance!