Qingxiangyuan
Time-Honored BrandQingxiangyuan · Sichuan · Founded
Qingxiangyuan, a time-honored brand from Sichuan, China, has been carrying forward the century-old sauce culture with traditional brewing techniques. Its products, including soy sauce, vinegar, and bean paste, are essential to Sichuan cuisine.
Brand Story
Qingxiangyuan's history can be traced back to the mid-Qing Dynasty. According to the Sichuan General Gazetteer and local county records, its predecessor was a small sauce workshop in central Sichuan that started by brewing soy sauce and vinegar. During the Jiaqing reign (1796-1820), founder Li opened a workshop on the outskirts of Chengdu, using the region's abundant soybeans and well salt, combined with ancient sun-drying and dew-collecting techniques, to produce a uniquely flavored soy sauce that was loved by locals. By the Daoguang reign (1821-1850), the workshop had expanded and was named 'Qingxiangyuan,' meaning 'fragrance spreading everywhere, garden full of delight.' During the Tongzhi reign (1862-1874), the third-generation heir improved the fermentation process by introducing the 'double-bottom' technique, resulting in products with a bright red color and rich aroma, making them a staple condiment in western Sichuan. In the Republican era, Qingxiangyuan products were exhibited at the Sichuan Provincial Products Exposition and received acclaim. Through wars and changing times, Qingxiangyuan has adhered to traditional brewing, with techniques passed down through generations, still using ancient clay vat fermentation, making it an important symbol of Sichuan culinary culture.
“Qingxiangyuan, a century of sauce fragrance, with a lingering aftertaste.”
Signature Products
Made from non-GMO soybeans, fermented under the sun for 180 days, with a mellow aroma and natural umami. (20-40 RMB/500ml)
Made from rice and bran, solid-state fermented for over three years, with a mild acidity and a sweet aftertaste. (15-30 RMB/500ml)
Selected Erjingtiao chili peppers and broad beans, traditionally sun-dried and turned, spicy but not harsh, with a rich sauce aroma. (10-25 RMB/500g)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Sichuan（四川）
Store details are being expanded. Find this brand’s stores and counters on the map below:
Find stores on Amap ↗Shop Online
Official flagship stores / search entries (CPS placements). Replace the links with your own affiliate PID to earn commission with zero inventory.
Cultural Note
Qingxiangyuan's brewing technique follows the principle of 'adapting to nature, manual turning,' insisting on open-air fermentation in clay vats, leveraging the humid climate of the Sichuan Basin to cultivate unique microbial flora. The process involves over ten steps including selection, soaking, steaming, koji-making, fermentation, and oil extraction, with no preservatives or artificial colors added. This technique embodies the Sichuan people's culinary philosophy of 'savoring flavors and loving spiciness,' and is an important carrier of Sichuan cuisine's seasoning culture.
Related Brands
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 Qingxiangyuan founded?
Qingxiangyuan was founded in null, originating in Sichuan, Sichuan, primarily in the Food & Beverage field.
What is the signature product of Qingxiangyuan?
Its signature product is Qingxiangyuan Premium 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: