The city of Hangzhou is nestled in the thriving Yangtze River Delta and provides a relaxing escape from bustling Shanghai.

Hangzhou’s magnificent West Lake (the inspiration for a man-made version in Beijing’s Summer Palace) provides amazing daytime views and boasts an equally impressive nightlife. The West Lake Scenic Area is definitely the best place to stay in Hangzhou and here are our favorite hotels in the area.

Best Hotels in Hangzhou – The Four Seasons

This famous luxury brand is well represented by its Hangzhou version – five-star elegance with 78 guest rooms and suites, 11 private dining rooms and three pagoda style villas with indoor pools. The hotel sits on the North-West corner of the lake and most rooms have views of traditional Chinese gardens. Enjoy boating on the lake easily from the hotel or, further afield, go tea picking in the Long Jing Rice Terraces.

The Four Seasons is AsiaTravel’s preferred partner in Hangzhou and we find that its the best fit for most of our clients. It is right near West Lake, so transportation is a breeze and the stunning scenery is complemented by exceptional service from the staff.

Best Hotels in Hangzhou –  The Hyatt Regency

Another large 5-star hotel with 390 rooms, the Hyatt Regency provides modern decor and amenities, overlooking the West Lake. It is located in the new lakeside pedestrian zone giving easy access to shopping and entertainment near the Broken Bridge. Signature features are a health spa with indoor pool and top quality restaurants – including 28 Hubin Road offering authentic Hangzhou cuisine. Walk further along the lake towards downtown and you will see many locals dancing in the open air in the evening.

The Hyatt Regency is another hotel recommended by AsiaTravel for its location right on the edge of West Lake. Talk to a AsiaTravel travel designer and we’ll help you decide if The Hyatt Regency is the perfect choice for your own tastes and itinerary. 

Best Hotels in Hangzhou – The Amanfayun

This is a luxurious resort hotel, considered as a spiritual sanctuary reflecting Buddhist monastic traditions. It consists of 46 rooms, suites and villas with distinctive touches set in a former tea-plantation village. Among its relaxing features is a spa spread across five pavilions with seasonal treatments to relax you alongside traditional massage and reflexology. As would be expected in this location, the resort includes teahouses to relax and reflect in and some fine dining restaurants.

The Amanfayun has a totally different ambience than the Four Seasons or Hyatt Regency. Close to the Lingyin Temple, the Amanfayun feels like a luxury resort that is the essence of the Aman Brand. The atmosphere is quieter, so it’s a great fit for clients who prefer a resort style accommodation away from the main action. 

 

Spending a luxurious weekend in Hangzhou is a great getaway in and of itself, or it can be added to any itinerary that stops in Shanghai. AsiaTravel can arrange a private boat for on West Lake, which can include a picnic and live music from a pipa player.  Other must-sees are the Ling Yin Temple, a huge Buddhist Temple set in the park of Fei Lai Peak in North West Hangzhou and the Ancient Cultural Street- a pedestrian street and a mecca for souvenir hunting and for finding two of Hangzhou’s most sought after products – tea and silk.

We love summer, and who doesn’t? Long days, festive atmosphere and always something going on. Yet sometimes, that sweltering summer heat can get just a little too much, especially in some of China’s hotter cities.

Our solution? A city break in China’s ice city, Harbin. This once-part-of-Russia city witnesses winters like no other in China, making it a much more comfortable city to visit when the warmer months do (finally!) arrive. There’s also plenty to see, do and eat in Harbin, meaning it should not be overlooked as a top Chinese destination.

RELATED READING: The 4 Best Cities for Jewish History in China

Harbin – What to See

Harbin is a unique Chinese city in the way that it is peppered with Russian and European influence. Its architecture, culture, customs and music are the result of a vibrant mix of different origins. Take a stroll down Zhongyang Street where you’ll be met with a façade of European style buildings, Russian bakeries and French fashion; you may even end up doubting whether you’re still in China.

Harbin’s Jewish heritage is equally rich with over 20,000 Jewish immigrants settling there during the 1920s. What’s more, you’ll have plenty of time to fit in all these sights with long daylight hours thanks to its far north positioning.

RELATED READING: Top 4 Things to Do in Harbin

Harbin – Festivals

Much the same as many cities, Harbin’s summer is great for a spot of festive fun.

If it’s beer that tickles your fancy, then you’re in luck. The Harbin International Beer Festival is held at the start of every July and lasts for ten days. During these ten days, there are a whole host of activities, including singing, dancing, beer tasting (obviously!), as well as trade fairs and exhibitions.

If you are planning to visit Harbin in August instead, you’ll be treated to the Harbin Summer Music Concert which also spans over ten days, starting on August 6th every other year. The opening ceremony alone is often a feat in itself. Over the years, this concert has showcased some phenomenal performances; notably, a 1001-piano concert in Flood Memorial Square which made it into the Guinness World Book of Records.

RELATED READING: Insider’s Guide to the Harbin Ice Festival

Harbin – What to Eat

As with its architecture and heritage, Harbin’s gastronomy is also heavily influenced by Russian, Korean, Mongolian and North Chinese cuisine. Dishes are served large and salty, but definitely worth giving a try. Highlights include night market seafood dishes such as garlic oysters and grilled squid, as well as our personal favorite, guobaorou. Guobaorou can otherwise be described as Sweet and Sour Pork but with a unique Harbin twist thanks to the addition of ketchup or orange juice to the sauce.

Harbin – How to Get There

Harbin is easily reachable from almost anywhere in China. With growing international importance, Harbin has also recently opened up connections with a number of other Asian nations as well as Russia. If the bullet train is more your style, it will take you seven hours from Beijing.   

Shanghai is a showstopper. Magnificent architecture, fascinating history, glitzy shopping malls, and every cuisine you could possibly imagine. But after a few days rushing around to see the best of what the ‘Paris of the East’ has to offer, you might be in need of a little break. Whether you’re looking to extend your AsiaTravel journey, or are a Shanghai resident simply looking for the perfect getaway, we’ve put together our top reasons for escaping the city and where to find them.  

RELATED READING: How to Make the Most of a Trip to China’s Yellow Mountain

Escape Shanghai for Beautiful Natural Scenery…

Arriving from Shanghai, The Yellow Mountain‘s (Huangshan) landscape of jagged peaks and rock-hugging clouds will leave you breathless – or maybe it was just that trek up? Whether you decide to tackle the mountains physically, or slightly more gently with the help of the cable car, you’re sure to be rewarded with stunning natural views and a sense of amazement. With hikes that will take you past the likes of Xihai Grand Canyon and Lotus Peak, escaping from Shanghai for a weekend to Huangshan will give you that refreshing and needed break (as well as some sci-fi-esque snaps to take home). Less than 5 hours away from Shanghai by bullet train, this is a great add-on to any trip.

On a AsiaTravel journey to Huangshan, your local guide will also help you to discover UNESCO-listed villages once home to prosperous tea and salt merchants who developed an elaborately decorative architectural style unique to this region.

RELATED READING: The Best Classical Gardens in Suzhou

Escape Shanghai for Chinese Imperialism at its Finest…

The cities of Suzhou and Hangzhou are just a short bullet-train ride away from Shanghai. With traditional Chinese gardens at every corner, Suzhou is the perfect place to unwind and lose yourself in a green oasis unheard of in Shanghai. Alternatively, enjoy the calmness afforded by the shores of Hangzhou’s West Lake. In both cities, you’ll find space to unwind in beautiful surroundings while living and breathing the remnants of a China past.

Soak it all in and relax whilst sampling some of the emperor’s favorite tea or stroll along the canals of Suzhou and learn how wealthy merchants, officials and scholars commissioned gardens where rocks, trees, ponds and pavilions convene harmoniously to depict an idealized China in miniature.

Escape Shanghai for Delicate Artistry…

Looking for something a little bit different? Escape Shanghai to Jingdezhen, the home of Chinese porcelain. This city is simply ceramics mad, with workshops, studios and markets aplenty. It’s the place to indulge in your creative side.

In Jingdezhen, the tradition of fine porcelain goes back over 1,700 years. Jingdezhen ceramics are famous for being “as thin as paper, as white as jade, as bright as a mirror, and as sound as a bell.” On top of watching and learning how to create delicate porcelain, on a AsiaTravel journey you’ll discover more about its past. Jingdezhen provided ancient Chinese emperors with exquisite palatial ornaments, as well as supplying a clandestine trade route of porcelain to Europe. Just a short one-hour flight from Shanghai, this trip will leave you the expert in all things ‘china.’ 

So, whether you have a few days to spare after visiting Shanghai, or are looking for a weekend getaway, consider leaving the bustling metropolis for some excellent destinations in the surrounding area. What’s more, with improved transport links it’s even possible to tie a few of these options into the same trip. Get in touch with one of our experienced travel designers to find out how.   

Slightly more laid back than China’s megacities to the East and North, the capital city of Sichuan Province boasts a relaxed atmosphere where life is savored and nature admired. With great transport links and amazing natural areas of beauty not too far away, Chengdu is a great addition to any China trip. We’ve put together our 4 must-dos in Chengdu that will make any trip to this steamy city one to remember.

See a face-changing opera

A popular form of entertainment throughout China, traditional opera has been a featuring element of Chinese culture dating as far back as the Zhao Dynasty (319-315). Naturally, in a country as vast and diverse as China, numerous regional styles have developed that vary in sound, rhythm, dance as well as acrobatics and costumes. Sichuan Opera, in particular, is famous for its face-changing element. Prepare to be amazed at the speed at which performers change their facial appearance with sly and unnoticeable strokes of hand, as well as repainting faces in the blink of an eye. Face-changing is done in order to reflect the emotions and events of the opera, keeping audiences on their seats and offering up an unusual alternative to the Beijing and Shanghai Operas.

Get your ears-cleaned in the kuan zhai alleyways

For a more unusual experience, we have just the thing! Chengdu’s kuan zhai alleyways, literally meaning ‘wide and narrow alleys’, are a series of ancient alleyways and courtyards lined with authentic tea houses, and stalls selling Sichuanese delicacies and arts and crafts. Whilst meandering through these interesting little streets, we recommend taking a load off and getting your ears-cleaned by the professionals. It’s a perfect opportunity for some people watching and will make sure everything is as clear as a whistle at the Chengdu Opera later on!

Play mahjong with the locals in People’s Park

There’s no better way to end a trip to Chengdu than with a relaxing afternoon in People’s Park, found in the centre of the city. Strolling around, it’s possible to test the waters with some rowboats, get your ears cleaned (again!), or enjoy a cup of green tea at one of the traditional tea houses. Our personal favorite experiences, however, is learning the art of mahjong. Mahjong originated in China and is a game of tiles that relies on strategic ability and of course a bit of luck. Observe as the locals play game after game and then try it out for yourself.

Volunteer for the day as a panda keeper

Escape the city to the verdant regions that encircle Chengdu and get up close and personal with the giant panda. Only 34 miles from the city, Dujiangyan Panda Base is a great day out that you simply cannot miss while visiting Chengdu. The base is the largest of its kind in China (and the world!) and features a panda rescue area, panda research area, panda training area…the sweetest panda-monium you’ll ever experience! After all that cuteness, a nice spicy bowl of Sichuan hotpot upon your return to the city will be just what’s needed.

There are so many great things to do in Chengdu – and we didn’t even get round to talking much about the great (spicy) cuisine! Chengdu’s slow pace of life will leave you with a calm appreciation for Chinese culture and on a AsiaTravel journey, we’ll help you make incredible memories to take home. 

“吃了吗” (chī le ma), so goes the ancient Chinese greeting. Literally meaning “Have you eaten?”, “吃了吗?” is actually used to ask how someone is, the implication being that someone who has eaten must be doing well (of course!). While the saying may have lost its intention in everyday language, the greeting is a clear reflection of China’s fixation with food – and the inspiration behind our latest series: Have You Eaten?

Boasting an impressive eight cuisines across its many distinct regions, the Middle Kingdom is bursting with culinary diversity, causing both confusion and friction when it comes to dinner time. Luckily for you, we’ve put in the legwork to bring you a series of standout restaurants that have made it onto our very own list of favorites. Delving headfirst into the gastronomic narrative, here is the story of RED BOWL.

The latest addition to elegant Rosewood Beijing, RED BOWL offers a one-of-a-kind hot pot experience in the heart of the capital. But first things first, what is Chinese hot pot?

Hotpot at RED BOWL | Picture by Rosewood Beijing

A firm favorite throughout the nation, hot pot traces its history back to times of barbaric rule over a millennium and a half ago. Upon setting up camp for the evening, voyaging Mongol horsemen would use the heat from the fire to simmer soup in their helmets and sear meat upon their shields, making for a comforting and replenishing meal. Spreading throughout Northern China, this process was adapted by dipping vegetables and seafood into a flavorsome broth to cook. Thankfully, helmets were soon swapped out for metal pots – much more sanitary! With a communal pot in the middle of the table, this method of cooking is regarded as a sociable experience and adds an element of fun with its DIY aspect.

A selection of premium-quality meats at RED BOWL | Picture by Rosewood Beijing

As the craze spread, so did creativity. Stretching from the East China Sea to the mountains of Sichuan, hot pots have been adapted and constantly reinvented to reflect the flavors and ingredients of the local region. For example, a visit to Chongqing will see diners burning their lips on the area’s famed pepper-laden broth. Indeed, hot pots embody the diversity of Chinese cuisine, which bring us back to the dilemma of choice…

That’s where RED BOWL comes in. With the admirable goal of creating a world-class experience that appeals to everyone, they’ve reinvigorated the traditional hotpot without sacrificing any of its raw authenticity. But with more hotpot jaunts than you can shake a stick, what is it about RED BOWL’s story that has got us so hooked?

1. They make hotpot accessible for all tastes and styles.

Unlike other restaurants that focus on a specific cuisine with one variety of broth, RED BOWL offers six options, each as lip-smackingly tasty as the next. Pair this with an extensive range of dipping sauces and you have an unapparelled hot pot experience. Don’t worry though, the RED BOWL staff are experts when it comes to pairing the broth to the perfect sauce. Scared of spice? Not a problem. RED BOWL has three spice-free flavors.

Green Pepper Stock at RED BOWL | Picture by Rosewood Beijing

2. They make hot pot chic and fun.

While nothing makes up for poor flavor, we’re firm believers that dining is a multisensory experience and always find ourselves drawn to restaurants that offer both delicious food and great atmosphere. From the second you walk into RED BOWL, the vibe is chic and classy without feeling stuffy. Set upon a backdrop of graffiti-clad walls and smooth hip hop, the space reflects today’s China with its fusion of modernity and tradition. For a spot of fun, take a peek at the cocktail menu. While a slightly unusual pairing for hot pot, these cocktails have been carefully crafted to complement the dishes. Be sure to try the spicy Hot Monkey Vespa which pairs perfectly with the heat of the food.

The chic interiors of RED BOWL | Picture by Rosewood Beijing

3. They use phenomenal ingredients.

Impressively, an abundance of choices doesn’t hamper the quality, with broths that are left bubbling overnight to intensify the flavors and ingredients that are hand selected by Chef de Cuisine Zhu Qing. As well as locally sourced ingredients, RED BOWL makes a bold statement with imported Australian Wagyu Beef and Inner Mongolian Lamb Leg Roll. Plus, with a focus on nothing but the crème de la crème, the scallops are massive and delicious and the fish cheese ball is to die for. Then, guests can wash it all down with inventive takes on classic cocktails to round off their dining experience in style.    

A platter of seafood at RED BOWL | Picture by Rosewood Beijing

The Gin and Tonic at RED BOWL | Picture by Rosewood Beijing

We can’t wait to go back.

To celebrate the announcement of another Tea Horse Road journey with Jeff Fuchs this November, we’re sharing one of our favorite posts of AsiaTravel Explorer and Expert Jeff Fuchs musing on the importance of the Ancient Tea Horse Caravan Road, and why we should all bump it up on our travel list.  

A rugged Jeff Fuchs stares down the lens | Photo by Jeff Fuchs

The Ancient Tea Horse Caravan Road has long held the attention of explorers and vagabonds alike for the fact that it represents one of the globe’s great and daunting adventures. It is a cultural odyssey as much as a physically demanding pathway that brought tea, salt, horses, and all manner of goods from the fringes of the old dynastical empires into and onto the Tibetan Plateau. Pre-dating the Silk Road, the Tea Horse Caravan Road and its meandering pathways through indigenous zones, ancient tea forests, and stunning geographies offer up a deeper look into the very historical fabric of southwest China, Tibet, and beyond.

Across snow passes and over some of the planet’s great waterways, the route takes in three dozen cultures and two dozen languages…all with their own histories with tea and the great trade route.

Tea figured greatly into this ‘highway through the sky’ as it was – and to some extent remains – one of the great panaceas and commodities of time. Tea was more a fuel and medicine to the ancient tribes and its safe transport was one of the great vitals of the trade world.

Yunnan tea farm | Photo by Jeff Fuchs

This AsiaTravel journey along the Ancient Tea Horse Caravan Road seeks to dig into and take the journey back to its roots. Authentic touches of exploration off the beaten path, serious tea-highs from some of the planet’s purest ancient tree teas, and homestays that are entirely integral with delving deeper into a culture and land are on offer. Walking through some of the oldest tea forests on the planet, and then sampling them in a cup bind the leaf to its drinker and, by extension, to any that partake in a cup.

The journey from field to cup begins | Photo by Jeff Fuchs

We’ve enhanced sections to take you deeper still into Yunnan’s diversity and created more of a full-on adventure with daily tea samplings, from fresh bitter harvests to locally prepared specialties (including the Tibetan’s famed and pungent butter tea) from local regions.

I’m delighted that this journey has continued and been intensified to add a more authentic feel that reflects life and travel upon the Tea Horse Caravan Road. In traveling upon this most ancient of trade routes, it is important to retain some of the original feel of travel, life, and interaction for our guests.

It is vital that such a journey keep its vitality and spontaneity. It is only through this kind of travel and attention to detail that a route’s history, legend, and truths can remain intact.

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If Jeff’s descriptions of tea got your heart beating a little faster, check out the itinerary for Jeff’s “Asia Revealed” trip here. If you want to read more about Jeff and his travels, check out his blog here.  And if you have any questions, shoot us an email at info@wildchina.com

Original posted 

As the month of Saka Dawa continues, the Buddhist practice of performing a kora has become increasingly common in this rugged western region. And with visitors to Tibet growing year by year, it has become both important and beneficial to travelers to have an understanding of Tibet’s sacred practices. Without much further ado, here is our specialized guide for everything you need to know about the kora.

The word kora is a transliteration from the Tibetan word kor, meaning circle. The added ‘a’ refers to the Latin ambulare (meaning ‘to walk’), giving an overall meaning of walking around something in a circle, or circumambulation. While the name may have a very practical meaning, its significance is closely linked to Buddhist practice and is sacred to Tibetan life. 

Back in the 6th century, it was very common for the Buddha to spend his time under a tree and, in time, this was where his disciples would come to revere to him. However, it was his disciple Ananda who brought up the question of where devotees would be able to pay their respects in the Buddha’s absence. The Buddha pointed to his usual tree and indicated that walking around it, mindful of the tree’s significance, would be the natural way to pay one’s respects. As time went by, monuments such as the dome-shaped stupas were erected containing relics from the Buddha himself. Much like trees, these stupas were solid structures, meaning worshippers could not enter inside, and the faithful took to walking around the stupas as if they were the Buddha’s favorite tree. So, the practice of circumambulation became a widespread Buddhist custom. 

While paying homage to the founder of Buddhism, the act of circling sacred sites is also said to earn religious merit and ensure a brighter future and closer relationship to the spiritual path. 

So, what does the actual practice of a kora involve, and where can it take place? 

The kora, which is sometimes referred to as a pilgrimage, involves circling any form of sacred site. It can be manmade, such are stupas, temples, and monasteries, or mighty natural sites like lakes and mountains – the infamous Mount Kailash is considered to be the most sacred of all.

During the kora, worshippers will be seen circling clockwise a predefined number of times (each site has a specific number of laps associated). In practice, Buddhists will recite prayers while counting mantras on their rosaries. The idea behind this is that it focuses the physical, verbal, and mental all at once, allowing time for spiritual reflection. Although most Tibetan Buddhists will be seen performing the kora by walking around the sacred site, the most devout will make their way around by fully prostrating, standing up, and repeating the actions from where their extended hands previously reached. An even more extreme version of this form of meditation is the horizontal prostration, where the practiser will make the slow progression in steps no larger than the width of their person.

For the best insight into this sacred practice, there are a select few sites dotted throughout Tibet which are considered to hold deep religious significance and, therefore, attract the largest number of worshippers. 

At the top of the list is Tsekhor Kora, a 3km circuit around the base of the hill upon which the red and white Potala Palace stands. As the residence of the Dalai Lama until 1959, the palace is seen as the center of Tibetan Buddhism and now holds the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also a must-see while visiting Lhasa.    

Also in Lhasa, the Lingkhor Kora follows the outer boundary of Lhasa District and can take up to four hours to complete just one circuit. On this kora, Tibetan pilgrims can be seen spinning hand wheels and chanting Buddhist scriptures. 

Leaving the crowds of Lhasa behind, pilgrims head to Lake Namtso to circuit one of Tibet’s three holy lakes. While this kora can take between twenty to thirty days to complete, the breathtaking views of crystal-clear waters and snow-capped peaks might encourage you to do a second lap. 

And finally, the most popular kora of all is that which circles Mount Kailash, considered the holiest mountain in the world and of significance to four world religions. This circuit takes around three days to complete, with overnight stops being made at monasteries along the route. 

In a region where religion is so tightly woven into the fabric of Tibetan culture, travelers can’t help but acknowledge the importance of Buddhism. Witnessing and even taking part in a kora is a great way to experience Tibetan life.

As part of our ‘Have You Eaten?’ series, we share our latest foodie-finds that showcase another unique culinary experience on offer in China. This week, we didn’t have to venture far, seizing the opportunity to try out Beijing’s exclusive Black Sesame Kitchen which is well known for using rich Chinese flavors as a lens to bridge culture. While its name has certainly caught traction within the city and beyond, its location is unpretentious which adds to the restaurant’s genuine charm – and contributes to our appetite in trying to find it! Tucked away among a throng of hutong alleyways, BSK is a mere stone’s throw away from the Forbidden City and boasts a traditional courtyard setting. What we really love about this restaurant, though, is its focus on sharing stories, from the narrative behind its creation to the tales shared by fellow diners at the communal meals – and, of course, the food’s pretty spectacular too.  

We caught up with the creative genius behind it all, Jen Lin-Liu. 

Jen Lin-Liu 

After several years working as a foreign journalist in China, American-born Jen Lin-Liu decided to change direction in her life, opting instead to follow her burning passion for food. In a country so obsessed with eating, traditional Chinese recipes, cooking methods, and even ingredients are jam-packed with cultural and historical references, creating a fascinating concept that Jen was keen to tap into. Not one to shy away from a challenge, Jen enrolled at a local cooking school and worked hard to not only understand the lectures from a linguistic point of view but follow the countless cultural nuances dropped throughout the classes. Her constantly-raised hand was an unusual sight among Chinese students and she took her instructor by surprise when he finally realized she was, in fact, American.

Black Sesame Kitchen at a glance through the windows

Returning home each day with a pocketful of new recipes and stories to match, Jen’s expat friends soon became engrossed in this culinary foray into Chinese culture. Jen recognized the importance of food as a lens into the multifaceted daily lives of Beijingers and ultimately made the decision to rent out a small hutong so that she could host lessons and cook dinners for her friends. Word of these evenings quickly spread throughout the expat community and attracted international visitors in the process. Food became a great way to interact with chefs, business people, and other locals in the community, helping to bridge the divide between how a visitor may experience China and what China is actually like on the ground. And so, Black Sesame Kitchen was born. 

Following on from her book, Serving the People, Black Sesame Kitchen became the physical manifestation of how food can be used to bring together a diverse group of people and create a fascinating environment that overcomes cultural divides. During the nightly communal dinners, guests take a seat in the open-plan kitchen-meets-dining room and share in this experience with a constantly changing group of people. You might be seated with another traveler, a Beijing local, an expat living away from home, or any number of other characters – all who bring a unique understanding of life in China.

Courtyard area at Black Sesame Kitchen 

In the elegant open setting that brings together chef and diner, ten delicious courses are served up, each boasting freshly sourced ingredients from local markets. With only one sitting per evening, the experience is intimate and the menu constantly evolves to match current tastes and seasons. Culinary inspiration is drawn from Jen’s book of classical and imperial Chinese cuisine and mixed up with Chef Zhang’s creative flair – the homemade black sesame ice cream with candied seasonal fruit is a definite must-try. Topped off with selected wines to match the dinner’s flavors, the overall experience makes for a relaxing and social evening of good food and new friends.  

Wining and Dining at Black Sesame Kitchen 

If you choose to visit during the day, you’ll discover the secrets of stir-frying and noodle making in Beijing’s back alleys. In addition to its communal dinners, BSK also hosts private cooking lessons on Wednesdays and Sundays which are packed with inspiring foodie stories and tips on how to stock your pantry with the right ingredients. We love how unique this experience can be made, with options such as free-flow champagne or a pre-dinner wine and dumpling demonstration hour.

Baozi, a type of steamed bun 

As a writer, Jen believes in how stories can shape and inspire other people and this could be no more apparent than at the communal table of Black Sesame Kitchen. With limited capacity and a successful reputation, be sure to book in advance! You wouldn’t want to miss out on this incredible culinary experience. 

 

As the capital of the Tibetan Autonomous Region, Lhasa sits high above the clouds, perched along the edge of the Himalayas. A city filled to the brim with culture and history, the sights are plentiful, not to mention the surrounding mountainous landscapes of epic proportions. With so much to see and do, where you choose to rest your weary traveler head at the end of the day does have its perks. Whether it’s rooftop panoramic views or a swanky oxygen bar, here’s the ultimate guide to the best hotels in Lhasa. 

St Regis Hotel

RELATED READING: Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Lhasa

For a night in the thick of it all, stay at the St Regis, located in the ancient Barkhor area of the city – home to Jokhang Temple and the authentic Lhasa. As a collection of rooms, villas, and suites, the St Regis exudes Chinese elegance in a tasteful and relaxing setting. After a day following in the footsteps of Buddhist pilgrims, retreat to the comforts of this hotel and indulge in one of the extravagant treatments at the Iridium Spa. Then, take a soak in the healing, warm waters of the sparkling Golden Energy Pool. With a focus on delivering the art and spirit of Tibet, you’ll be leaving this lofty destination with your head in the clouds and your body rejuvenated.

Songtsam Choski Linka

RELATED READING: Where Can I Visit Tibetan Buddhist Monks?

The homegrown Songtsam brand is the perfect choice to experience Tibetan culture, from the locally-spun thread of the rugs blanketing the floors to the native staff. Enjoying a parkside location, the Songtsam provides epic views over rugged mountains and the shimmering Potala Palace in the distance – the Potala View Deluxe Suite is a must! Boasting over 100 pieces of Tibetan and Chinese textile art, your cultural exploration of this fascinating region begins the moment you put your bags down. As part of a boutique collection of lodges, guests can be assured of an intimate stay that blends warm Tibetan hospitality with ultimate comfort. Songtsam has opened lodges throughout the region and into Yunnan, offering the perfect chance to explore the region at greater depth while staying in authentic accommodations. 

Shangri-La Lhasa

RELATED READING: Do I Need a Permit to Visit Tibet?

If a healthy dose of Chinese opulence in the lap of luxury is what you’re after, then look no further than the Shangri-La. As the inspiration for the brand, the fabled Shangri-La is a paradise for travelers high up in the Himalayas, where the tales from James Hilton’s ‘Lost Horizon’ leap off the page. Guests will find a copy of the book in every room – perfect for indulging in an inspirational chapter or two before bed. The Shangri-La remains faithful to its high standards with posh rooms and, for those not yet acclimatized, a 24-hour oxygen lounge. Finding itself between the Potala Palace to the east and the Summer Residence to the west, the hotel is perfectly situated to explore the best Lhasa has to offer. After a day of sightseeing, enjoy sundowners on the roof terrace with 200-degree views over the undulating landscape.

Four Points by Sheraton Lhasa

RELATED READING: Where You Should Go in Tibet

A convenient 10-minute stroll from Jokhang Temple, the Four Points lies in the east of the city and radiates peace and quiet. With its inviting, comfortably simple furnishings and renowned Sheraton service, this hotel delivers world-class hospitality to ensure only the most enjoyable of stays. After a long day exploring Lhasa’s treasures, guests can unwind in the Asian-style courtyard or retire up on the roof terrace. Or for something even more indulgent, a range of soothing treatments are on offer in the Bayemedo Massage Room. For the short of breath among you, oxygen facilities are provided upon request.

While Helen of Troy was the face that launched a thousand ships, pu’er tea was the beverage that paved the ancient Tea Horse Road. Fifteen hundred years ago, pu’er was a humble tea that rarely left the confines of Yunnan. But, sometime around the 7th century, something changed.

The Origins of Pu’er

Some say that merchants first learned of the tea when the ancient Tibetan Kingdom of Tubo controlled much of what is now Yunnan. Others say it was the union of the Tang Dynasty’s Princess Wencheng and Tibetan King Songtsän Gampo that led to its introduction. One thing is certain: the leaves that were once being enjoyed only by the ethnic minority groups that tended to them had found their way into the cups of emperors in northern China and Tibetans on the Himalayan Plateau. Soon enough, the thirst for pu’er was so unquenchable that an entire network was developed to carry the leaves out of the province and over the mountains, trading bricks of tea for Tibetan warhorses, precious silver, and salt.

“Under a shade tree – tea mountain Pu’er, Yunnan, China” by BryonLippincott is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 

RELATED READING: The Top 5 Things You Need to Know about Pu’er Tea

The roots of pu’er can be found in southwestern Yunnan, near the subtropical Eden of Xishuangbanna. In the heart of the Tea Belt – an area that extends from Assam in India to northern Vietnam – the home of pu’er is no less than the crux of the species. Hidden high in the region’s misty mountains, ancient tea trees – some of which are over 1,200 years old – have been cultivated by hill minorities like the Dai and Aini for over a millennium. Using knowledge that has been passed down through generations, farmers trek through remote jungles to reach clandestine groves. There, they tend to both wild-growing and specifically planted trees before handpicking the large, soft leaves and beginning the painstaking production process which is closer to an art than a science.

Making a Mighty Brew

Named for the town that served as the collection and trading hub for the area’s tea mountains, pu’er has many related spellings (among them pu’er, pu-erh, pu erh, puerh, pu-er, pu er, and puer). Although the legendary tea is known by many names, there are just three criteria that must be met in order for a tea to be given the coveted title of pu’er. First, leaves must be picked from a broad-leaf tea tree (generally Camelia sinensis var. assamica, for all the tea connoisseurs out there). Second, like Champagne and its namesake region in France, production must occur in Yunnan. Finally, the leaves must be dried in the sun (not in an oven – that’s cheating). After being picked, the incredibly precise production process begins. Leaves are laid out to wilt for a few hours in the sun. Then, they are quickly fired in a wok over a gentle wood-burning fire to ‘kill the green’ (known as sha qing in Chinese) and stop oxidation. However, the farmers must watch the leaves carefully. Heating them too long takes away all moisture and kills the natural bacteria which are vital to the fermentation and aging of the pu’er. After the firing, leaves are rolled, shaped, and spread out to dry again in the Yunnan sunshine and initiate post-fermentation. It’s here in this last step where the magic alchemy of pu’er tea occurs.

 “Dry the tea” by Jeff Fuchs

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The invention of pu’er as we know it today is something that can only be described as culinary magic, a result of happenstance and fluke conditions, which takes us back to the ancient trade network known as the Tea Horse Road. To accommodate the insatiable thirst for tea of Tibetans and the imperial class, caravans of merchants would compress the tea leaves into bricks, wrap them in bamboo, and then strap them to the backs of horses, mules, and other pack animals to make them easier to carry. Long distances and rough terrain meant that the tea could be traveling for months, or even years, before finally reaching its destination.

But, during the journey, something happened – the pu’er changed. In an act that can only be described as gastronomic serendipity, the tea’s exposure to sweat, the elements, and shifting climates not only changed its color from green to earthen teak, but the flavor became richer, smoother, and fruitier. Like a fine merlot, aging and a natural fermentation process while traveling caused the tea to evolve into something not only uniquely delicious but also medicinal and highly sought-after.

Pu’er Today

Over the years, the desire for pu’er mellowed somewhat, its drinkers largely confined to Yunnan. Until again, starting in the late 1990s, something happened. Investors from first-tier cities in China and then the rest of the world began streaming in. Tea that had once sold for pennies a kilo skyrocketed to hundreds of dollars by the mid-2000s. While the bubble burst temporarily in 2007 and sent prices plummeting, it is on the rise once more, with 350g discs aged 70 years ringing in at thousands of dollars, and there are no signs of stopping. Pu’er, once a humble tea of Yunnan, is again the Helen of Troy of tea.

“realchinatea (40 of 131).jpg” by mmoscosa is licensed under CC BY 2.0

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In spite of the demand and the temptation to cut corners, Yunnan’s hill minorities carry on the tradition of pu’er set forth by their ancestors generations ago. Tending to the trees with the skill and dedication of a vigneron nurturing their vines, many farmers devote their whole lives to fashioning the perfect cup of tea.

To delve into the past and present of this precious commodity, contact us now to learn more about our upcoming journey back to pu’er’s roots with Jeff Fuchs and Traversing the Ancient Tea Horse Road. After hiking to the ancient tea tree forests, you’ll sit down with the descendants of the first tea cultivators for a pot of tea and a memory that is literally millennia in the making. We hope you’ll join us for a cup of tea.