Yuan
Time-Honored BrandYuan · Jiangsu · Founded
Yuan, a time-honored food brand from Jiangsu, is renowned for its traditional pastry craftsmanship, carrying the culinary memories of the Jiangnan region. With a history dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, it embodies the elegance and delicacy of Suzhou-style snacks.
Brand Story
The Yuan brand originated in Jiangsu, with roots tracing back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, though the exact founding year remains unverified. According to local chronicles, during the mid-Qing Dynasty, pastry shops flourished in Suzhou and Yangzhou, and those bearing the name 'Yuan' were celebrated for their fine ingredients and meticulous techniques. Legend has it that during the Daoguang reign (1821-1850), a pastry master surnamed Chen opened 'Guixiang Yuan' in Suzhou, whose crispy pastries won the hearts of literati. Later, due to wartime turmoil, he moved to Yangzhou and renamed it 'Liuyuan', meaning 'to retain flavor and craftsmanship'. During the Republic era (1912-1949), the third-generation heir Chen Baoshan improved the recipes, incorporating Western baking techniques to blend traditional flavors with modern textures. After the public-private partnership in 1956, the brand was integrated into a local food factory, yet the 'Yuan' name was preserved, becoming a living fossil of Jiangnan pastries. Its cultural significance lies in continuing the refinement of Suzhou-style snacks while witnessing the evolution of Jiangsu's culinary culture from imperial courts to everyday streets.
“[待核]”
Signature Products
Thin as cicada wings, these melt-in-your-mouth slices blend the fragrance of osmanthus with the sweetness of glutinous rice. (15-30 RMB/box)
Layered flaky pastry with a savory pepper-salt filling, baked using traditional techniques. (20-40 RMB/box)
A classic Jiangnan tea snack with dense date paste and crunchy pine nuts, sweet but not cloying. (25-50 RMB/box)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Jiangsu（江苏）
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Cultural Note
Yuan adheres to the three principles of Suzhou-style pastry making: 'water-milling, oil-puffing, and heat control'. It employs ancient methods such as hand-wrapped pastry and wooden mold shaping, while incorporating modern hygiene standards. The craft emphasizes the natural flavors of ingredients and follows the seasons—making green rice balls in spring and osmanthus cakes in autumn—reflecting the Jiangnan philosophy of living in harmony with nature. Currently, this technique has been listed as a municipal intangible cultural heritage item.
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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 Yuan founded?
Yuan was founded in null, originating in Jiangsu, Jiangsu, primarily in the Food & Beverage field.
What is the signature product of Yuan?
Its signature product is Osmanthus Cloud Slices. 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: