Zhang Tongtai
Time-Honored BrandZhang Tongtai · Zhejiang · Founded 1805
Zhang Tongtai, a century-old pharmacy in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, is renowned for its authentic herbs and exquisite processing techniques, embodying the essence of Jiangnan's medical culture.
Brand Story
Founded in 1805 during the Qing Dynasty by Ningbo merchant Zhang Mei, Zhang Tongtai Pharmacy began as 'Zhang Tongtai Tang' on Xue'erhe Road in Hangzhou. Adhering to the principle of 'genuine goods at fair prices, honest with all', Zhang Mei dealt in authentic medicinal materials, gradually expanding the business. During the Tongzhi era (1862-1874), his grandson Zhang Lu'an inherited the enterprise, expanded the shop, recruited renowned physicians, and refined the production of pills, powders, ointments, and elixirs, elevating the pharmacy's reputation. Zhang Lu'an placed great emphasis on herb quality, personally sourcing materials and improving processing techniques. His 'Quanlu Pills' and 'Renshen Zaizao Pills' became famous across the Jiangnan region. During the Republican era, Zhang Tongtai, along with Hu Qingyutang and Ye Zhongdetang, were hailed as the three major pharmacies of Hangzhou. The pharmacy's architecture, a blend of Chinese and Western styles with ornate carvings, is now a city-level cultural relic. Beyond selling medicines, Zhang Tongtai also provided free medical consultations and donated medicines during epidemics, earning deep public trust. Its legacy of 'ancient processing methods' and the philosophy of 'healing and nurturing life' exemplify the integration of Zhejiang merchants' integrity and traditional Chinese medicine culture.
“Genuine goods at fair prices, honest with all”
Signature Products
Made from whole deer and various tonic herbs, these pills warm the kidneys, invigorate yang, and replenish qi and blood. (Approx. 200-500 RMB per box)
Selected precious herbs including ginseng and musk, these pills dispel wind, unblock meridians, and promote blood circulation, used for stroke-induced hemiplegia. (Approx. 150-400 RMB per bottle)
Prepared using traditional methods, this gelatin nourishes yin, replenishes blood, moistens dryness, and stops bleeding, serving as a traditional tonic. (Approx. 300-800 RMB per jin)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Zhejiang（浙江）
Store details are being expanded. Find this brand’s stores and counters on the map below:
Find stores on Amap ↗Shop Online
Official flagship stores / search entries (CPS placements). Replace the links with your own affiliate PID to earn commission with zero inventory.
Cultural Note
Zhang Tongtai adheres to the ancestral precept of 'ancient processing methods', using authentic herbs and techniques such as soaking, stir-frying, roasting, and calcining, with particular renown for 'nine-steaming and nine-sunning'. The meticulous preparation of pills, with careful attention to heat and timing, reflects the TCM concept of 'harmony between heaven and humanity'. The pharmacy's hall bears a plaque reading 'Ji Shi' (benefiting the world), embodying the benevolent spirit of a healer and exerting a significant influence on the inheritance of Jiangnan's traditional Chinese medicine culture.
Related Brands
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 Zhang Tongtai founded?
Zhang Tongtai was founded in 1805, originating in Zhejiang, Zhejiang, primarily in the Healthcare field.
What is the signature product of Zhang Tongtai?
Its signature product is Quanlu Pills. 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: