Lao Tongchang
Time-Honored BrandLao Tongchang · Jiangsu · Founded 1736
Lao Tongchang, a time-honored tea brand from Jiangsu, has been perfecting the art of tea-making since 1736. With a legacy of over 280 years, it is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and rich cultural heritage, offering a taste of authentic Jiangnan tea culture.
Brand Story
Lao Tongchang traces its roots to Jiangsu in the mid-Qing Dynasty. According to local chronicles, during the Qianlong reign (1736-1795), a tea merchant named Wang from Jiangsu opened a tea house in Suzhou, naming it 'Lao Tongchang' to signify shared prosperity. The Wang family devoted themselves to tea quality, personally overseeing every step from leaf selection to roasting, gradually earning a stellar reputation across the Jiangnan region. By the Guangxu reign (1875-1908), the third-generation heir Wang Dechang relocated the business to Nanjing, expanding operations and introducing famous teas from Fujian and Anhui, developing a unique blending technique. Lao Tongchang's teas, with their rich aroma and mellow flavor, were beloved by scholars and literati, becoming a symbol of Jiangnan tea culture. During the Republican era, it supplied teas to numerous established tea houses, its influence spreading along the Yangtze River. Despite wars and changing times, Lao Tongchang has preserved its tea-making skills and business integrity, remaining a living testament to Jiangsu's tea heritage.
“Shared Prosperity, Century of Tea Fragrance”
Signature Products
Selected tender buds picked before Qingming, flat and smooth, with a lasting fresh aroma and a crisp, refreshing taste. (200-500 RMB/500g)
Curled like snail, covered with fine white hairs, rich floral and fruity fragrance, with a bright green infusion. (300-600 RMB/500g)
Tightly rolled strips with golden tips, bright red liquor, sweet and mellow with a pleasant aftertaste. (150-400 RMB/500g)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Jiangsu（江苏）
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Cultural Note
Lao Tongchang adheres to traditional handcrafted tea-making, blending the essence of Jiangnan tea culture. With a focus on precise roasting and rolling techniques, its unique blending process embodies the elegance of Suzhou-style tea ceremony.
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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 Lao Tongchang founded?
Lao Tongchang was founded in 1736, originating in Jiangsu, Jiangsu, primarily in the Tea field.
What is the signature product of Lao Tongchang?
Its signature product is Tongchang Longjing. 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: