Lao She Teahouse Beijing: A Complete Guide to Traditional Chinese Culture

What Is Lao She Teahouse in Beijing?

Located in the historic Qianmen area, just south of Tiananmen Square, Lao She Teahouse is one of the most iconic cultural venues in Beijing. Founded in 1988 and named after the renowned Chinese writer Lao She and his famous play Teahouse, it offers visitors a condensed yet immersive introduction to traditional Chinese culture.

More than just a teahouse, Lao She Teahouse is often described as a living museum of Old Beijing, where tea, performance, and folk traditions come together in one unforgettable experience.

Here, visitors can:

• Taste classic Chinese teas such as Longjing, Jasmine, and Pu’er
• Watch Peking Opera, acrobatics, folk music, and Xiangsheng (Chinese cross-talk)
• Sample traditional Beijing snacks like Pea Flour Cake, Rolling Donkey, and Bingtang Hulu
• Immerse themselves in a nostalgic setting filled with wooden décor, red lanterns, and historic photographs

Over the years, Lao She Teahouse has welcomed numerous international dignitaries, including former U.S. President George H.W. Bush and former UK Prime Minister David Cameron, making it a well-known cultural bridge between China and the world.

Lao She Teahouse Travel Guide: Location, Tickets & Transport

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Building 3, Zhengyang Market, Qianmen West Avenue, Xicheng District, Beijing
• By Subway: Take Subway Line 2 to Qianmen Station (Exit C), then walk about 5 minutes

Thanks to its central location, Lao She Teahouse is easy to combine with visits to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, or a stroll along Qianmen Street.

Tickets, Shows & Booking Tips

1. Book in Advance
   Evening performances are extremely popular, especially between 19:00–21:00. Booking 1–3 days ahead via the official website or by phone is strongly recommended.
2. Which Show Should You Choose?
   • Evening Variety Show (90 minutes): The most complete experience, featuring highlights of Peking Opera, acrobatics, and folk arts. English programs are usually available.
   • Afternoon Performances: More relaxed and affordable, ideal for travelers on a tighter schedule or budget.
3. Suggested Visit Timeline
   • Arrive 30 minutes early to explore the tea culture displays on the first floor
   • Order tea and snacks before the performance begins
   • Browse the souvenir shop afterward for quality tea leaves and traditional crafts
4. What to Wear
   There is no dress code. Casual and comfortable clothing is perfectly fine, though bringing a light jacket is wise as the air conditioning can be strong.

How Much Does Lao She Teahouse Cost?

• Tea Only: 80–150 RMB per person
• Afternoon Show + Tea: 180–280 RMB per person
• Evening Show + Tea/Snack Set: 320–480 RMB per person (Highly Recommended)

Money-Saving Tip: If you are visiting with friends or family, sharing a large pot of tea and ordering snacks separately can reduce costs. For first-time visitors, show packages provide the best overall value.

Language, Payment & Photography

• English menus and some English-speaking staff are available
• UnionPay, Visa, and MasterCard are accepted
• Photography is allowed (without flash); professional filming requires prior permission

Is Lao She Teahouse Worth Visiting?

For travelers seeking an efficient yet authentic introduction to Chinese culture, Lao She Teahouse is absolutely worth visiting. In just a few hours, you can experience traditional tea ceremonies, regional performances, and classic Beijing snacks—all in one place.

That said, the atmosphere is lively rather than quiet. If you are looking for a silent, meditative tea experience, this may not be the ideal spot. However, if you enjoy vibrant performances and cultural variety, Lao She Teahouse is likely to be a highlight of your Beijing itinerary.

Beijing Tea Culture Beyond Lao She Teahouse

While Lao She Teahouse is the most famous teahouse in Beijing, the city’s tea culture extends far beyond a single venue:

• Wu Yutai — Ideal for buying high-quality tea leaves and traditional snacks
• Lai Jin Yu Xuan — A quieter space focused on tea history and craftsmanship
• Qingyunlou — A relaxing teahouse with scenic lake views

For a deeper exploration, see our related guide: The Five Charms of Beijing Teahouses: A Complete Guide to Traditional Tea Culture. For more tips on the best food in Beijing, check out our guide: Beijing Local Food Trails.

Final Thoughts: Why Lao She Teahouse Belongs on Your Beijing Itinerary

If you want to see, hear, and taste traditional Chinese culture in one place, Lao She Teahouse delivers an experience that is both convenient and memorable. Its combination of tea, performance, and history makes it one of the most rewarding cultural stops in Beijing—especially for first-time visitors.

Final Address Reminder: Building 3, Zhengyang Market, Qianmen West Avenue, just steps from Tiananmen Square.
Spend an afternoon or evening here, and let the aroma of tea and the rhythm of Old Beijing draw you into China’s living traditions.