Ji Pai
Time-Honored BrandJi Pai · Qingdao · Founded
Ji Pai, a time-honored brand from Qingdao, blends traditional craftsmanship with maritime culture. With a history dating back to the late Qing Dynasty, it is renowned for its naturally brewed soy sauce, fermented shrimp paste, and ready-to-eat seaweed, embodying the authentic flavors of Qingdao.
Brand Story
Ji Pai originated in Qingdao, with its history tracing back to the late Qing Dynasty (around the 1890s). At that time, Qingdao was a thriving port with bustling commerce. Local artisans combined traditional techniques with marine resources to create a brand marked by a rooster, symbolizing auspiciousness and vitality. The brand initially gained fame for its seasonings and preserved foods, thanks to unique recipes and strict ingredient selection. In the early 20th century, as Qingdao urbanized, Ji Pai products became staples on local dining tables and were exported to surrounding areas. A key figure, founder Wang Dechang, improved traditional brewing methods and introduced modern hygiene standards, earning the brand widespread recognition during the Republic of China era (1912-1949). Culturally, Ji Pai has witnessed Qingdao's transformation from a fishing village to a modern city, carrying the taste memories of its residents and serving as a living fossil of maritime food culture.
“Ji Pai, a century of freshness, the taste of Qingdao.”
Signature Products
Made with traditional high-salt dilute-state fermentation, rich in aroma and naturally savory. (15-30 RMB/bottle)
Selected small shrimp from Bohai Bay, sun-fermented, savory and mellow, perfect as a condiment. (20-40 RMB/jar)
Made from Qingdao's specialty seaweed, seasoned to a refreshing taste, ready to eat, convenient and healthy. (10-20 RMB/bag)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Qingdao（青岛）
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Cultural Note
Ji Pai's craftsmanship has been passed down for over a century, adhering to ancient brewing methods and natural sun-drying, blended with Qingdao's maritime climate to create a unique flavor. The process emphasizes time and patience—soy sauce undergoes four-season cycling, and shrimp paste is sun-dried and dew-exposed, reflecting the Chinese culinary philosophy of 'harmony between heaven and humanity.' The brand values the natural taste of ingredients, using no artificial colors or preservatives, preserving traditional flavors.
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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 Ji Pai founded?
Ji Pai was founded in null, originating in Qingdao, Qingdao, primarily in the Other field.
What is the signature product of Ji Pai?
Its signature product is Ji Pai Soy Sauce. 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: