Guifaxiang Shibajie
Time-Honored BrandGuifaxiang Shibajie · Tianjin · Founded 1927
Guifaxiang Shibajie Mahua, a time-honored brand from Tianjin, has been crafting crispy and sweet twisted dough sticks for nearly a century. With its unique recipe and hand-made process, it has become a beloved snack and a symbol of Tianjin's culinary heritage.
Brand Story
Guifaxiang Shibajie Mahua originated in Tianjin, with its history tracing back to the late Qing Dynasty. In 1927, a master named Liu Laoba founded the Guifaxiang Mahua shop in the Shibajie alley by the South Canal. He improved the traditional frying technique, using fine flour, peanut oil, and sugar to create a unique filled twist that stayed crispy and soft. Named after its location, Shibajie Mahua became a local favorite. Through nearly a century of inheritance, Guifaxiang has adhered to hand-twisting and a secret recipe, becoming a taste memory of Tianjin and a symbol of the city's culinary craftsmanship and resilience. Its technique is listed as Tianjin's intangible cultural heritage, and the brand was recognized as a 'China Time-honored Brand' by the Ministry of Commerce in 2006.
“Shibajie Mahua, the more you eat, the more fortune you gain.”
Signature Products
The classic signature, crispy outside and soft inside, filled with assorted dried fruits, sweet but not greasy. (30-100 RMB/box)
Large in size, crispy in texture, perfect for sharing, and a top choice for Tianjin souvenirs. (20-60 RMB/piece)
Individually wrapped, assorted flavors, portable and easy to store, ideal for daily tea snacks. (50-150 RMB/box)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Tianjin（天津）
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Cultural Note
The craft of Guifaxiang Shibajie Mahua emphasizes 'three strands, eighteen twists,' involving over ten steps including kneading, proofing, twisting, and frying, all done by hand with precise heat control. Culturally, it embodies the bustling port city life of Tianjin, blending northern and southern culinary traditions, and reflects the northern pastry aesthetic of 'crispy, sweet, and fragrant' along with the artisan spirit of 'upholding tradition while innovating.'
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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 Guifaxiang Shibajie founded?
Guifaxiang Shibajie was founded in 1927, originating in Tianjin, Tianjin, primarily in the Food & Beverage field.
What is the signature product of Guifaxiang Shibajie?
Its signature product is Assorted Filled Mahua. 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: