Founded in 1988, Laoshe Tea House is conveniently located near Qianmen and attracts tea lovers—both Chinese and foreigners—for its comprehensive museum, tea shop, and traditional tea house.
Laoshe Tea House is named after the renowned Chinese writer Lao She who is known for his “Teahouse” drama, a vivid portrayal of the social dimensions of old Beijing.
Highlights include a traditional “siheyuan” (traditional Chinese courtyard home) located on the second floor with private tea rooms and the performance venue where you will enjoy traditional snacks and fragrant seasonal tea while taking in a collection of Chinese traditional performances including acrobats, Peking Opera, Kung Fu, and more.
Housed in a three-story building, you will be drawn to the entrance by its welcoming doorman and will hear the sounds of a three-piece ensemble playing traditional Chinese tunes in the reception area.
From here, you will head upstairs to the second floor where there is a private tea room area enclosed in the aforementioned “siheyuan” as well as an impressive museum and tea shop. Upstairs on the third floor is a performance venue with an open air tea service that will take you back in time, offering its guests a traditional old Beijing experience.
The tea house has both the reputation and proof of being a foreigner-friendly attraction as evidenced by its vast collection of photos of foreign dignitaries who have visited in the past.
In the lobby you will have a difficult time not noticing the life-size bronze statue of former American President George Bush Sr. visiting for tea in 1994. Here on every floor, you will find a collection of art and memorabilia that exhibit the architecture and social order of old Beijing.
The production value of the show is anything but lacking. The performers are top-notch and the wait staff will work swiftly to keep your tea cups filled throughout the show. The performance lineup is subject to change but you can be sure to be entertained and leave with a great impression.
My visit to Laoshe Tea House exceeded my expectations as the staff is quite familiar with serving foreign guests and best of all are very friendly. Nearly everything you come across here will have both Chinese and English signs, so tourists shall not feel nervous deciding to make time for a visit.
Unlike most tourist attractions found in the city, Laoshe Tea House does not pressure its customers to buy its teas or souvenirs. The relaxed environment and facilities really make this establishment worthy of its not-so-inexpensive prices.
William Vanhttp://english.visitbeijing.com.cn/
