Houkeng
Time-Honored BrandHoukeng · Anhui · Founded
Originating from the Huangshan region of Anhui, Houkeng is the core production area of Taiping Houkui tea. With a century-old tea-making heritage, it is renowned for its orchid fragrance and distinctive 'monkey charm,' representing the finest of Chinese green teas.
Brand Story
Houkeng, located in Xinming Township, Huangshan District (formerly Taiping County), Huangshan City, Anhui Province, is the birthplace and core production area of Taiping Houkui tea. Its name derives from a local legend of monkeys roaming the mountains, while 'Houkui' is closely tied to tea farmer Wang Kuicheng (known as 'Wang Lao'er') during the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty (1875-1908). Wang pioneered the 'two leaves embracing one bud' processing technique, producing exceptional pointed tea that earned the title 'King of Pointed Teas.' Named after its origin, it became 'Taiping Houkui.' In 1915, it won a gold medal at the Panama-Pacific International Exposition, gaining worldwide fame. Generations of Houkeng villagers have upheld traditional handcrafting methods, producing flat, straight leaves with a deep green color, high orchid aroma, and a mellow, sweet aftertaste—the celebrated 'monkey charm.' Houkeng is not only a geographical indicator but also a living testament to Huizhou tea culture.
“[待核]”
Signature Products
Two leaves embracing one bud, flat and straight, with a high orchid fragrance and mellow taste. A fine product from the core Houkeng area. (1000-3000 RMB/jin)
Uniform appearance, fresh and high aroma, brisk and refreshing taste. Great value for daily enjoyment. (500-1000 RMB/jin)
Made from fresh leaves of Houkeng, with tight fine strips, golden tips, and a sweet, mellow flavor, carrying the essence of Houkui. (300-800 RMB/jin)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Anhui（安徽）
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Cultural Note
Houkeng's tea-making craftsmanship centers on the 'Four Selections' (selecting mountain, bush, branch, and bud) and hand-pinching and pressing processes, emphasizing the unique 'two leaves embracing one bud' shape. In 2011, the technique was inscribed on the National Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Houkeng's tea culture embodies the Huizhou merchant spirit and ecological philosophy, representing the wisdom of tea farmers in the Huangshan region.
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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 Houkeng founded?
Houkeng was founded in null, originating in Anhui, Anhui, primarily in the Tea field.
What is the signature product of Houkeng?
Its signature product is Taiping Houkui (Premium). 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: