This is one exciting cultural place at Qianmen off the main tourist itinerary. It is named after the drama Teahouse by Chinese author, Lao She. Lao She (1899-1966), real name Shu Qingchun, was of Manchurian descent and the famous author of the book called “Camel Xiangzi” also known in the US as “Rickshaw”. It was a bestseller in the US where Lao She was a visiting professor. He also taught Chinese at the Oriental School of London University in his earlier days.

The teahouse was founded in 1988. It provides an antique-flavor, Beijing-styled environment, where you can watch wonderful performances by celebrities from folk arts and drama on any given day while enjoying famous teas, palace snacks as well as traditional Beijing flavor state, numerous celebrities and more than 2 million Chinese and foreign tourists have visited Lao She Teahouse since it was founded. It has been a window for exhibiting the national culture and bridge that connects China with the rest of the world.

Tea is a kind of tree or bush, its leaves, and the beverage made from the leaves. Tea was first used medicinally when it was found in ancient China. Tea is a very important thing in Chinese lives. It even evolves a specific culture--- "Tea Culture".

in China. It includes the articles, poems, and pictures about tea, the art of making and drinking tea, and some customs about tea. When in China, do as the Chinese do. Forget the coffee and try some Chinese tea! It might change your drinking habit of a lifetime.