Tongchuan
Time-Honored BrandTongchuan · Sichuan · Founded
Tongchuan is a time-honored brand from Sichuan, renowned for its traditional brewing techniques dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is celebrated for its fermented black beans (douchi), soy sauce, and other condiments that are essential to Sichuan cuisine.
Brand Story
Originating in Santai County, Sichuan (historically known as Tongchuan Prefecture), the Tongchuan brand's brewing heritage dates back to the late Ming and early Qing dynasties (around the 17th century). Historical records note that Tongchuan Prefecture, situated at the confluence of the Fu and Kai rivers, enjoyed sweet water and abundant high-quality soybeans, providing ideal conditions for brewing. During the Kangxi reign (1662-1722), local sauce workshops flourished, with 'Tongchuan Douchi' (fermented black beans) becoming the most famous. Its unique technique involves steaming, fermenting, and sun-drying selected black soybeans, resulting in loose, fragrant beans. In the Republican era, Tongchuan Douchi was sold in Chengdu and Chongqing, becoming a key seasoning in Sichuan dishes. After 1949, the brand was continued by a local state-owned enterprise, preserving traditional methods. Culturally, Tongchuan Douchi is not only the soul of dishes like 'Twice-Cooked Pork' but also a symbol of Sichuan's culinary memory, reflecting the local pursuit of flavor.
Signature Products
Plump beans with rich aroma; essential for Twice-Cooked Pork and Mapo Tofu. (10-30 RMB per pack)
Brewed traditionally; reddish-brown with mellow aroma; ideal for braising and cold dishes. (15-40 RMB per bottle)
Made from broad beans and chili; savory and spicy; represents the home-style flavor of Sichuan cuisine. (20-50 RMB per bottle)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Sichuan（四川）
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Cultural Note
Tongchuan's brewing follows the natural fermentation method of 'sun-drying by day and dew-exposing by night,' emphasizing the harmony of water, grain, starter, and technique. The douchi-making process involves over ten steps—selecting, soaking, steaming, culturing, and fermenting—spanning months, embodying the craftsmanship of traditional agriculture. This technique is deeply tied to Sichuan cuisine, supporting its 'hundreds of dishes with hundreds of 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 Tongchuan founded?
Tongchuan was founded in null, originating in Sichuan, Sichuan, primarily in the Other field.
What is the signature product of Tongchuan?
Its signature product is Tongchuan Fermented Black Beans (Douchi). 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: