Qinghu
Time-Honored BrandQinghu · Zhejiang · Founded
Qinghu, a traditional food brand from Zhejiang, carries forward the culinary culture of Jiangnan through handcrafted brewing and authentic flavors. With a history dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, it is a living heritage of regional gastronomy.
Brand Story
Qinghu's roots trace back to the Ming and Qing dynasties in Zhejiang. According to local chronicles, the Qinghu area was a thriving commercial hub due to its convenient water transport, attracting merchants and boosting the food industry. The brand was founded by a craftsman surnamed Chen, who opened a small workshop in Qinghu Town during the Qianlong reign (1736-1795) to brew soy sauce and rice wine. His meticulous selection of ingredients and refined techniques quickly earned local fame. The Chen family passed down and improved the craft through generations. By the Guangxu reign (1875-1908), Qinghu had grown into a family enterprise centered on sauce gardens and breweries, with products sold across neighboring counties. The name 'Qinghu' not only derives from the place but also means 'clear as a lake,' symbolizing purity and superior quality. Though the exact founding year is unrecorded, its clear lineage makes Qinghu a living fossil of Jiangnan's traditional food culture.
Signature Products
Brewed using traditional high-salt dilute-state fermentation, it features a reddish-brown color, rich aroma, and savory umami taste. (20-50 RMB/bottle)
Made from glutinous rice and starter culture, it is clear, sweet, and leaves a lingering aftertaste. (30-80 RMB/bottle)
Made from local cucumbers pickled in a secret sauce, they are crisp, refreshing, and perfect as a side dish. (15-30 RMB/jar)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Zhejiang（浙江）
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Cultural Note
Qinghu's brewing techniques follow ancient methods, adhering to the seasonal rhythm of 'making koji in spring, sun-drying sauce in summer, brewing wine in autumn, and preserving in winter,' reflecting Jiangnan's wisdom of living in harmony with nature. Steps like manual sauce turning and sun-drying in earthenware vats preserve traditional flavors and carry local folk memories. Qinghu products are not just condiments but representatives of the 'fresh, fragrant, and mellow' characteristics of Zhejiang's culinary 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 Qinghu founded?
Qinghu was founded in null, originating in Zhejiang, Zhejiang, primarily in the Food & Beverage field.
What is the signature product of Qinghu?
Its signature product is Qinghu 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: