"Lao-she" teahouse suggested

Drinking tea is an ancient culture of China and teahouses happen to be as old as the production of tea. Developed throughout China from as early as the Tang Dynasty (618-907), visiting a teahouse had become common practice by the time the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) arrived. Teahouses of all sizes and statures had made the tea culture live among the hearts of every citizen. Even dancers, singers and magicians were brought in to cheer up the visitors, and that tradition still stands today.

You will have a unique experience of China's culture and tradition on your visit to the much-acclaimed "Lao-she" teahouse in Beijing. Located to the west of the Qianmen Gate on the southern edge of Tian'anmen Square, the teahouse is named after the famous Chinese novelist and playwright, Lao She, and his masterpiece drama "Teahouse."

Decorated and furnished in the Qing Dynasty style with lanterns hanging from the ceiling and traditional Chinese paintings and calligraphy displayed on the walls, the stage is already set for the much-acclaimed entertainments ready to start. The teahouse is also the place for fans of Beijing folk art. Traditional Chinese arts such as painting, sculpture, antiques, kites and jades are on sale, giving a glimpse of the heritage of Chinese culture.

You can choose how close to the stage you sit, depending on the entry fee you pay. Guest tables are set with porcelain tea cups and traditional snacks will be served. Tea drinking is of course the major draw but you will served with reflections, such as dried plums, pastries, steamed buns, dried mango and watermelon seeds, etc. The snacks are all prepared according to ancient recipes from the imperial kitchen. The tea is being refilled every time you drink it up and the environment, atmosphere make guests feel they are in an ancient setting of Beijing, drinking the best brews in China. The most interesting fact is the serving of tea by a highly acrobatic waiter, who is constantly active to make sure your cup is never empty and all this, amazingly, achieved from a great height!

The show usually starts at 7: 30 in the evening. An electronic display board at one side of the stage has subtitles of the songs in English.
The repertoire usually includes an acrobatic show, Shaolin Temple martial arts; the Peking opera and face change show, which lasts almost two hours.

The teahouse has gradually been transformed into a wonderful entertainment house with skits and shows by comedians, singers, musicians and magicians these 20 years. The best part of a show is always preserved for the present, and it is not different here.
The teahouse experience will definitely offers you a wide idea of China's ancient culture.

Since its opening, Lao She Teahouse has entertained many famous people from China and all over the world, including former US president George Bush Sr. Autographed photos of all the dignitaries who have visited the teahouse are ceremoniously displayed on the walls, and its idea of showcasing the traditions of China in such a unique manner has probably made it a "must see" while in Beijing
If you are interested in this typical traditional culture of early Chinese society, just drop in an email and we can reserve your seat in advance.
john@chinahuangshan.com congzhang@hotmail.com

For detailed information, please drop in an email and you will get a tailor-made itinerary exclusively for your tour calendar and interest.
john@chinahuangshan.com congzhang35@hotmail.com