TIANTAN
Time-Honored BrandTIANTAN · Beijing · Founded
A time-honored Beijing brand rooted in imperial court pastry traditions, TIANTAN is renowned for its authentic Jing-style snacks. Inspired by the Temple of Heaven's cultural heritage, it crafts traditional delicacies that embody the essence of old Beijing, offering a taste of history and festivity.
Brand Story
Originating in Beijing, the TIANTAN brand is closely linked to the Temple of Heaven, a sacred site where Ming and Qing emperors performed rituals to pray for good harvests. Built in 1420, its architectural and ceremonial culture deeply influenced the development of traditional Beijing foods. While the exact founding year of the brand awaits official verification, its roots trace back to the mid-20th century, when pastry shops in Qianmen and Dongsi were famed for imperial-style snacks. TIANTAN carries on this legacy, infusing royal sacrificial culture into its creations, such as pastries modeled after the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Although no specific founder is recorded, early master bakers were often apprentices from the imperial kitchen or established Beijing shops, passing down skills through generations. Beyond food, TIANTAN embodies the cultural memory of Beijing's central axis, with its products serving as nostalgic gifts that convey the charm of the ancient capital. Since the reform and opening-up, the brand has evolved, focusing on traditional pastries and Beijing-style mooncakes, though its corporate history requires further research.
“[待核]”
Signature Products
Traditional mooncakes made with the 'tiji' or 'zilaihong' method, filled with candied fruits, assorted nuts, and five kernels. Crisp crust, soft filling, and pleasantly sweet. (50-200 RMB/box)
A savory-sweet pastry shaped like an ox tongue, flaky and layered with a prominent Sichuan pepper aroma. A classic Beijing salty snack. (20-50 RMB/jin)
Thin as paper, filled with poria powder and nut paste. Lightly sweet and refreshing, believed to aid digestion and calm the mind. (30-80 RMB/box)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Beijing（北京）
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Cultural Note
The brand's techniques stem from Jing-style pastry traditions, emphasizing hand-laminated dough and precise oven control, echoing the seasonal foods of Temple of Heaven rituals. Ingredients are locally sourced, such as rice from western Beijing and dates from Miyun, highlighting regional character. These pastries are often given as gifts during Mid-Autumn Festival and Spring Festival, symbolizing reunion and blessings.
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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 TIANTAN founded?
TIANTAN was founded in null, originating in Beijing, Beijing, primarily in the Other field.
What is the signature product of TIANTAN?
Its signature product is Beijing-style Mooncake. 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: