Shanghai - One Bud&Two Leaves Tea Tours

I don't often write reviews but felt I had to after this tour. I did not have much time in Shanghai but wanted and authentic experience. Miki did not disappoint. I got to learn so much about tea. Who knew there was more to it than a tea bag or leaves and black tea ?! Miki was so knowledgable and accomodating. What you get for the price is an incredible value - instruction by a certified tea master, tea tasting, personal poem with calligraphy, and an authentic Shanghai experience. Even if you are only in Shanghai for one day this tour is a must do. I can't recommend it enough.

I recently spent nine days in Shanghai for holiday and hands down One Bud Two Leaves Tea Tour was my FAVORITE thing I did the entire trip ! First, you cannot visit China, the birthplace of tea, without at least tasting and experiencing China’s rich tea history. But if you don’t speak Chinese, this can prove challenging. Sure- you can go to touristy places that speak some English but you won’t get the “real stuff” and experience. This tour is the "real deal" - not some showy touristy thing in a teahouse. We had Miki and her English is great ! She is so knowledgeable and helpful. She really makes sure you have an amazing experience. She is actually a Certified Tea Master (you have to study, take an exam etc), not just any tour operator . We learned about the six different kinds of teas and how to prepare them. (Who knew there was a type called yellow tea ?!) She taught us hands on how to brew each type of tea so that it would taste the best. We learned about leaves, and water temperature and the different tastes and aromas in tea. So we didn’t just taste tea. We actually learned a lot that we can use back home. Her help and guidance in Tianshan Tea City was invaluable. The place is amazing (a must see if you go to Shanghai) but a bit overwhelming if you are a foreigner. Although some of the shop owners speak some English, it is hard to tell on your own what is good tea , what is a good price, what is a good tea pot, etc. . Miki was able to help us with all that. We got some amazing stuff we would have never on our own and paid way less than we would have on our own thanks to her help. We came home with an authentic Chinese experience from a true expert. The personalized calligraphy poetry gift with our names was so beautiful and unique. Something that will always make us remember this trip. This is a must do if you come to Shanghai.