Zijing Yuan

It has become fashionable to be a full or just occasional vegetarian in recent years, for the sake of environmental protection and personal health. Wensuyuan (聞素院), also known as Zijing Yuan (紫荊院), is a perfect blend of accommodation, plant-based dining and tea culture in a secluded area in Longgang District, Shenzhen. It comes with a décor resembling the Japanese courtyard, and a serene and relaxing ambience to promote the well-being of the body and soul.

What one can expect here is an Omakase-experience, proudly presented by the female owner who serves wholesome vegetarian cuisines made of fresh and seasonal ingredients. Cooked with home-made spices and minimum additives, the dishes are low in oil, salt and sugar to bring out the authentic flavour of the food. Want a taste of the healthy, yummy and exquisite cuisines in Omakase style? Make a reservation well in advance!

The restaurant is as good for veggies as for tea lovers with various kinds of tea, namely Mi Lan Xiang tea, Da Wu Ye tea and Ya Shi Xiang tea, each plucked from a single bush in Fenghuang (Phoenix) Town, and Zheng Shan Xiao Zhong tea as a black tea. Among them, Ya Shi Xiang tea ranks top on the shop’s recommendation list, given its scent of orchid at the initial sniff, taste of bitterness followed by sweetness, and ending notes of tea and floral aromas. Why not enjoy your tea with rice cakes for a calm escape from the hustle and bustle?

The Japanese-inspired eatery is dotted with carefully picked green plants, oil paintings, calligraphy works, tables and chairs, vases and tea sets, all in style complementary to one another and colours to embody the beauty of Zen. Sitting on tatami mats and taking the time to appreciate the quiet and pleasant ambience might give off some vibes of a little Kyoto. There is also al fresco dining that boasts an eye-catching and grassy antique seating area, allowing you to indulge in every bite and sip in breezy environs for a green retreat.