The Chinese transformed the habit of drinking tea into a sophisticated ritual. Visiting a tea house in Xian is a must because here, in the northwest, tea is prepared differently from other regions. Besides enjoying a cup of tea you can also experience a traditional theatrical performance.
1) American Style Tea House
As the name suggests, this is not another traditional Chinese tea house. The interior design is pretty simple and as soon as you enter you will feel the resemblance it has with an American cafe. However, the atmosphere is intimate, which makes the tea house perfect for small parties.
Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Kanko
2) Fu Baoge Tea House
Fu Baoge Teahouse is the most popular tea house in Xian due to the long held traditional rituals used here. It is decorated in the purest Chinese style and the personnel rigorously respects the tea making procedure. Also, one of the delights of this tea house is the live music performance, that you can enjoy every day.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Angela Tchou
3) Chang-an Tea House
The Chang-an Tea House's location is a well-preserved family house situated in the center of Xian. The tea house not only offers a strong and aromatic drink of tea, but also live Chinese music performances. Locals like to come here to drink a cup of tea and enjoy some nice company, so if you are looking for a genuine Chinese experience, this is the right place to come to.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and motograf
4) Golden Flower Tea
Golden Flower Tea is one of the few tea houses in Xian that has an exclusive partnership with a tea factory. This privilege assures a daily supply of quality tea leaves. The sophisticated process of tea making is perfectly mastered by the staff, and they can prepare a tasty and aromatic cup of hot tea for you.
Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and MichaelMaggs
5) Jinxiu Tea House
Jinxiu is famous for two things: flavored and Kung Fu teas. The scented ones represent a blend between several types of tea from different regions, herbs, flowers, oils and fruits. Kung Fu, however, is not a specific name for a tea, but represents the manner of preparing it. Jinxiu Tea House is pretty spacious and allows you to come with a large party of friends.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and romainguy