Yuanchanghou
Time-Honored BrandYuanchanghou · Beijing · Founded
Yuanchanghou is a time-honored tea house in Beijing, renowned for its jasmine tea and a century-old legacy of tea craftsmanship. Established during the Qing Dynasty, it has been a beloved purveyor of traditional Beijing tea culture, offering finely crafted teas that capture the essence of the capital's rich heritage.
Brand Story
Founded in the Qing Dynasty (exact year unverified), Yuanchanghou Tea House derives its name from the I Ching's 'Yuan Heng Li Zhen' and the concept of 'Hou De Zai Wu' (virtue sustains all things), symbolizing integrity and trustworthiness. The founder, a Beijing tea merchant (name unverified), initially opened the shop in Dashilan, Qianmen, before relocating to its current site. During the late Qing and early Republic periods, Yuanchanghou gained fame for its jasmine tea, crafted with meticulous selection and refined techniques. Its tea, with clear liquor and fresh aroma, became a staple in old Beijing teahouses. Through wars and changing times, Yuanchanghou has upheld tradition, preserving the essence of Beijing tea culture as a living testament to the city's tea history.
Signature Products
Traditionally scented, with a fresh and lasting aroma and a bright yellow liquor. (50-200 RMB/jin)
Tea fragments, economical and practical, a beloved everyday tea among old Beijingers. (20-60 RMB/jin)
Made from pre-Qingming tender buds, scented multiple times, with a mellow and sweet taste. (100-300 RMB/jin)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Beijing（北京）
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Cultural Note
Yuanchanghou adheres to traditional jasmine tea scenting techniques, using Fujian baked green tea as the base and Guangxi Hengxian jasmine flowers as the scenting material. The process involves multiple steps—scenting, airing, flower removal, and re-firing—spanning several days. The craft emphasizes 'tea guiding the flower's fragrance, flower enhancing the tea's flavor,' resulting in a unique style that is fresh, lively, rich, and mellow.
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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 Yuanchanghou founded?
Yuanchanghou was founded in null, originating in Beijing, Beijing, primarily in the Tea field.
What is the signature product of Yuanchanghou?
Its signature product is Jasmine Tea. 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: