Fangshan
Time-Honored BrandFangshan · Beijing · Founded 1925
Fangshan is a renowned time-honored restaurant in Beijing, famous for its imperial cuisine that replicates the dishes of the Qing court. Established in 1925, it preserves the culinary heritage of the Forbidden City, offering diners a taste of royal dining culture.
Brand Story
Located within Beihai Park in Beijing, Fangshan's history dates back to 1925 (the 14th year of the Republic of China). At that time, chefs from the Qing imperial kitchen, including Zhao Renzhai and Sun Shaoran, opened a tea house on the north bank of Beihai Park to make a living. They named it 'Fangshan,' meaning 'imitating the imperial kitchen,' as they prepared dishes following the methods of the imperial cuisine. These chefs had served in the Qing court and were well-versed in imperial culinary techniques, so Fangshan's dishes retained the authentic flavors of the palace. In 1956, after the founding of the People's Republic of China, Fangshan Restaurant was formally established and moved to the Yilan Hall on Qionghua Island. Fangshan specializes in imperial dishes such as the 'Manchu-Han Imperial Banquet,' 'Pea Flour Cake,' and 'Kidney Bean Rolls,' known for their meticulous preparation, premium ingredients, and unique flavors. The establishment of Fangshan not only continued the imperial culinary tradition but also added a distinctive historical depth to Beijing's dining scene.
Signature Products
Made from peas, this classic imperial pastry is smooth and melts in your mouth. (Approx. 20-30 RMB per serving)
Made from kidney bean paste, these rolls have a white exterior and sweet filling, a favorite dessert of Empress Dowager Cixi. (Approx. 20-30 RMB per serving)
A grand feast combining the best of Manchu and Han cuisines, featuring a wide array of dishes. It is Fangshan's signature banquet. (Several thousand to ten thousand RMB per table)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Beijing(北京)
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Cultural Note
Fangshan's culinary techniques originate from the Qing imperial kitchen, emphasizing the finest ingredients, generous seasoning, and precise cooking times, resulting in rich flavors that highlight the natural taste of the ingredients. Its pastries, such as Pea Flour Cake and Kidney Bean Rolls, require multiple intricate steps. Many of Fangshan's inheritors are descendants of imperial chefs, passing down their skills through generations. Fangshan has also served national leaders, including Premier Zhou Enlai. Its cultural value lies in preserving the complete form of imperial cuisine, making it an important representative of Beijing's food culture.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Fangshan founded?
Fangshan was founded in 1925, originating in Beijing, Beijing, primarily in the Dining field.
What is the signature product of Fangshan?
Its signature product is Pea Flour Cake (Wandouhuang). See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: