Langshans are named after district around eastern China where they were developed over many centuries. There are four distinct types within the breed. The most popular version, is the original utility black Langshan, these became known as Croad Langshans in England, named after Major A.C. Croad, who was the first to import the breed into England 1872. They have lightly feathered shanks and outside toes, and are the most common type of Langshan in the US also. Another popular type is the German Langshan which is also very tall and clean legged. In England the long legged type known as the Modern Langshan was developed more for the show pen and the birds came to resemble the Modern Games. Then there was a shorter legged version resembling the Cochin. These birds were used in the creation of the Orpington.

The Langshan is a tall breed carry themselves as if their heads are held high enhancing their tall elegance. They have long bluish/black legs with feathers covering their shanks and third toe. They have a single comb and white skin. The Lanshan is a dual purpose breed with tasty white meat and large brown eggs some with a deep shade of purple. Hens lay between 200 - 230 rich brown eggs per year, and may go broody too. On avarage, the weights for rooster and hen are 9.5 lbs and 7.5 lbs, respectively.