Xinyuanzhai
Time-Honored BrandXinyuanzhai · Beijing · Founded 1740
Xinyuanzhai, a time-honored Beijing brand, is renowned for its sour plum juice and preserved fruits. Inheriting imperial court techniques, it embodies the essence of Beijing's culinary culture.
Brand Story
Founded around 1740 during the Qing Dynasty's Qianlong era, Xinyuanzhai began as a fruit shop in Liulichang, opened by a native of Hengshui, Hebei. The founder, well-versed in imperial recipes, crafted a sour plum juice from dark plums, rock sugar, and osmanthus, which, when chilled, offered a perfectly balanced sweet-and-sour taste, earning it the title 'Imperial Palace Delicacy.' During the late Qing and early Republic periods, it became the go-to summer refreshment for Beijing's elite, with luminaries like Mei Lanfang and Lu Xun as frequent patrons. Its preserved fruits, especially candied crabapples and wenpu (a type of sweetmeat), are celebrated for their meticulous selection and craftsmanship. Despite wars and changes, Xinyuanzhai has upheld its traditions, and its sour plum juice technique is now listed as Beijing's Intangible Cultural Heritage, making it a living testament to Beijing's culinary heritage.
Signature Products
Brewed with dark plums, hawthorn, and osmanthus, this chilled drink is refreshingly sweet and sour, quenching thirst and perfect for summer. (10-20 RMB per bottle)
Selected premium crabapples, candied to a glossy red, offering a tangy-sweet taste with rich fruit aroma. (30-50 RMB per jin)
Made from dried apricots and peaches, these honeyed treats are soft, chewy, and sweet without being cloying—a classic Beijing-style preserved fruit. (40-60 RMB per jin)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Beijing（北京）
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Cultural Note
The craft of Xinyuanzhai's sour plum juice emphasizes 'fine ingredients, meticulous brewing, and thorough chilling.' Rooted in imperial court recipes and the philosophy of food as medicine, it reflects the refinement of Beijing's traditional food culture. Similarly, its preserved fruits follow ancient methods, prioritizing natural flavors, and stand as icons of Beijing-style snacks.
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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 Xinyuanzhai founded?
Xinyuanzhai was founded in 1740, originating in Beijing, Beijing, primarily in the Other field.
What is the signature product of Xinyuanzhai?
Its signature product is Sour Plum Juice. 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: