Location & How to Get There
Xin Lu Xiang Tea House sits in a peaceful corner of Xiang’an District, Xiamen. It’s tucked away in Mawei Town, at 212 Lane East Road—a spot that feels like a hidden gem. To reach it, you can take a taxi or bus from Xiamen’s city center (about a 30-minute ride) or hop off at the nearby bus stop if you’re coming from Xiamen Gaoqi Airport (only 15 minutes away). If you’re driving, plug the address into Google Maps, and you’ll find it easily. The tea house is surrounded by lush green hills and tea fields, making it a perfect escape from the city buzz.
Natural Scenery: A Green Oasis
At Xin Lu Xiang Tea House, nature steals the show. The area is blanketed with rolling tea plantations, especially in spring and autumn when the leaves are vibrant. You’ll see workers hand-picking tea leaves, and the air smells fresh and earthy. Nearby, there’s a small lake where ducks swim, and a few walking trails wind through the hills. Bring your camera—the golden hour here is magical, with sunlight filtering through the trees and tea bushes creating a picture-perfect scene. Even on a cloudy day, the misty mountains add a cozy, almost mystical vibe.
Cultural Experience: Tea, Tradition, and Taste
Xin Lu Xiang isn’t just about pretty views—it’s a deep dive into tea culture. The tea house has been run by the same family for generations, and they’re passionate about sharing their craft. You’ll get to try local teas like Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess) and Dahongpao, all grown on their own farm. The best part? You can watch the tea masters in action, twisting hot pans and flipping leaves like pros. They even offer mini workshops where you can learn to roll tea leaves yourself—trust me, it’s trickier than it looks! And don’t miss the tea-paired snacks, like sweet peanuts or savory rice crackers.
Facilities: Relax and Stay awhile
The tea house is designed for chilling out. Inside, there’s a cozy lounge with wooden tables and cushions where you can sip tea while gazing at the garden. If you’re hungry, they serve light meals like tea-infused noodles or bamboo rice. For shoppers, there’s a gift shop packed with tea sets, handmade puppets, and locally baked tea cookies. Outside, there’s a shaded patio with swings and hammocks—perfect for lazing around after a tour. They even have free Wi-Fi, so you can post those “zen moment” photos to Instagram!
What to Expect: A Day in the Life
A visit to Xin Lu Xiang Tea House feels like stepping into a slower, simpler world. Start with a guided tour of the tea fields, where the staff explains how they grow and harvest tea. Then, join a 30-minute workshop to try your hand at roasting or packing tea. Afterward, grab a seat in the sun-dappled courtyard and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. If you’re lucky, the owner might share stories about their family’s history or play a tune on the guzheng (a Chinese instrument). End your trip with a walk along the lake, where you’ll spot herbs and wildflowers growing by the water.
Insider Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) for fresh tea or autumn (September–November) for cooler weather.
- Avoid: Summer afternoons, as it can get steamy.
- Must-Try: Their homemade jasmine tea ice cream—it’s a crowd-pleaser!
- Hidden Gem: Ask the staff about the “Secret Garden” path behind the tea house—it leads to a quieter spot with epic sunset views.
Xin Lu Xiang Tea House isn’t just a tourist stop—it’s a chance to connect with Xiamen’s rural roots, taste incredible tea, and escape the hustle. Whether you’re a culture buff or just looking for a peaceful day trip, this place has something for everyone.