Weihua
Time-Honored BrandWeihua · Ningbo · Founded
A time-honored Ningbo brand, Weihua is renowned for its traditional pastries and pickled vegetables, carrying on the authentic flavors of Yong-style cuisine since the early 20th century.
Brand Story
Weihua, originating from Ningbo, Zhejiang, traces its roots back to the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China (around the 1900s), when Ningbo, as a trading port, bustled with merchants and saw a fusion of culinary cultures. Founded by a local pastry master, the brand began as a small workshop specializing in Ning-style cakes and pickles. Known for its meticulous ingredient selection and exquisite craftsmanship, it gradually established a foothold in the city. During the Republic era (1912-1949), the second-generation heir expanded the business, incorporating techniques from Suzhou and Beijing pastries, creating a unique flavor that made Weihua a favorite for festive gifts among Ningbo locals. After the founding of New China (1949-), Weihua underwent public-private partnership while preserving its traditional recipes, and revived its time-honored brand after the reform and opening-up (1978-). Its cultural significance lies in carrying the culinary memory of Ningbo, reflecting the refinement and pragmatism of the Jiangnan water town. Key figures include founder Mr. Chen (name to be verified) and third-generation heir Chen Asi (1915-1998), who improved the craft of seaweed cakes, making the product popular in Shanghai.
Signature Products
A crispy pastry with a savory-sweet filling of East China Sea seaweed, a Ningbo specialty. (15-30 RMB/box)
Soft and sweet rice cake infused with golden osmanthus, a traditional winter treat. (10-20 RMB/bag)
Crisp and refreshing radish pickled using ancient methods, perfect as a side dish. (8-15 RMB/jar)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Ningbo（宁波）
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Cultural Note
Weihua adheres to traditional handcraft techniques, using old yeast for fermentation in pastry making and following the ancient method of triple sun-drying and triple pickling for its pickles. Its craftsmanship blends the savory freshness of Yong cuisine with the sweet and sticky flavors of Jiangnan, embodying the wisdom of Ningbo people living by the sea. The brand emphasizes seasonality, offering items like mugwort green rice balls in spring and osmanthus cakes in autumn, closely tied to Ningbo's folk customs and festivals.
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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 Weihua founded?
Weihua was founded in null, originating in Ningbo, Ningbo, primarily in the Food & Beverage field.
What is the signature product of Weihua?
Its signature product is Seaweed Cake. 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: