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A Guide to Shanghai Tea Houses
Dec 8 , 2011
Though there are many different times in which Chinese tea is served, Shanghai tea houses are some of the most classic places to learn about these rituals. Before you set foot into the tea house, though, it’s important to understand the custom itself.
Throughout China’s history, tea has played an important role in many different types of cultural affairs, from wedding celebrations to family gatherings to occasions for saying “I’m sorry.” In fact, tea is even used today for medicinal purposes in some Chinese traditions.
The Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony:
The traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony, also sometimes referred to as the Chinese Way of Tea, is a cultural practice that honors a traditional way of preparing and serving tea. These Ceremonies are so essential to customary Chinese culture that they are considered an art form, focusing most importantly on the sensory experience of tea drinking.
An important part of the Tea Ceremony is the water. Making sure that the water is free of certain chemicals is essential, as is finding the perfect temperature for the water -- black teas are best brewed in near-boiling water, while green teas are brewed at a slightly cooler temperature.
Once the tea is brewed, it is time for it to be served. When your tea is poured, a light finger tap on the table is customary as a thank you to the person who served you. In some instances, it is more appropriate to simply say “thank you” or give a slight head nod. Regardless of the manner, it is important to acknowledge the tea server. In Shanghai tea houses, it's best to observe what your neighbors are doing and follow suit.
In a proper Chinese Tea Ceremony, you will have both a tea holder, or saucer, and a small teacup. When you drink your tea, be sure to lift both the saucer and the cup to drink.
A Taste of Chinese Teas:
Now that you know a little more about the Tea Ceremony, how ‘bout some tea? ...But what kind? Here’s a rundown of the some of most popular Chinese teas that you may find in Shanghai tea houses.
Once you have a handle on the many varieties of Chinese teas, you’re ready for a trip to the tea house. Shanghai tea houses are traditionally a place to share ideas in a welcoming setting. Today, they’re still good for their original purpose -- but, of course, there’s nothing wrong with just wanted to enjoy a warming cup of hot tea with a friend or a newspaper. The following are some Shanghai tea houses worth a visit.
The Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony:
The traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony, also sometimes referred to as the Chinese Way of Tea, is a cultural practice that honors a traditional way of preparing and serving tea. These Ceremonies are so essential to customary Chinese culture that they are considered an art form, focusing most importantly on the sensory experience of tea drinking.
An important part of the Tea Ceremony is the water. Making sure that the water is free of certain chemicals is essential, as is finding the perfect temperature for the water -- black teas are best brewed in near-boiling water, while green teas are brewed at a slightly cooler temperature.
Once the tea is brewed, it is time for it to be served. When your tea is poured, a light finger tap on the table is customary as a thank you to the person who served you. In some instances, it is more appropriate to simply say “thank you” or give a slight head nod. Regardless of the manner, it is important to acknowledge the tea server. In Shanghai tea houses, it's best to observe what your neighbors are doing and follow suit.
In a proper Chinese Tea Ceremony, you will have both a tea holder, or saucer, and a small teacup. When you drink your tea, be sure to lift both the saucer and the cup to drink.
A Taste of Chinese Teas:
Now that you know a little more about the Tea Ceremony, how ‘bout some tea? ...But what kind? Here’s a rundown of the some of most popular Chinese teas that you may find in Shanghai tea houses.
- White Teas: Tea leaves picked just before maturation result in white teas, which are traditionally known to provide several health benefits. Try White Silver Needle, one of the most popular of this style of tea in China.
- Green Teas: Green teas are some of the most popular in Chinese culture and are known for their color. They retain the color of the leaves because they are not fermented. Try the traditional Dragon Well Green Tea, one of the most famous green teas from China.
- Black Teas: Known as “red tea” in Chinese, black tea is made with fermented tea leaves, which gives it a darker color. One very popular Chinese black tea that you may try in a Shanghai tea house is Keemun Black from the Anhui region.
- Oolong Teas: This interesting type of tea is half-fermented, which results in a mix between a green tea and a black tea. Try Red Robe or Iron Goddess for a traditional, yet exciting taste of Oolong tea.
Once you have a handle on the many varieties of Chinese teas, you’re ready for a trip to the tea house. Shanghai tea houses are traditionally a place to share ideas in a welcoming setting. Today, they’re still good for their original purpose -- but, of course, there’s nothing wrong with just wanted to enjoy a warming cup of hot tea with a friend or a newspaper. The following are some Shanghai tea houses worth a visit.
- Hu Xin Ting Tea House
- Yaqu Tea House
- De He Tea House
- Geng Yue Ren Tea House
- Chun Fen De Yi Lou Tea House
After tasting teas, dig-in to a delicious Chinese meal at one of the best restaurants in Shanghai.
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