The Gongfu tea brewing method allows the aroma and flavor of Oolong tea to shine at its best. But how can we apply it in our daily lives? This blog will show you how.
1. The History of Chaozhou Gongfu Tea
Gongfu tea started taking shape during the Ming Dynasty and was introduced to Chaozhou from the Minnan (Southern Fujian) region. In the early days, it was mostly practiced among scholars and officials. But starting around the Republican era (early 20th century), it gradually made its way into everyday life.
Over time, through daily practice and refinement, the people of Chaozhou developed their own unique way of brewing and enjoying tea — one that’s deeply rooted in their local culture and lifestyle.
Today, tea is embedded in every aspect of local culture in the Chaoshan region. Whether it’s in social gatherings, ancestral worship, religious rituals, weddings, or funerals, tea is always present.
Locals even refer to tea as "tea rice" (茶米), meaning it’s as essential as food itself.
In modern times, Chaozhou Gongfu tea is no longer just a local tea-drinking method. It has stepped onto a broader stage — recognized not only as a refined tea-brewing method, but as a symbol of Chinese tea culture. In 2008, it was listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage- thanks in large part to tea masters Chen Xiangbai. He played a key role in preserving and shaping the art of Chaozhou Gongfu tea, organizing its traditional techniques into the well-known “21 steps,” which form the foundation of what we now know as the Chaozhou Gongfu tea ceremony.
2. How to Brew Chaozhou Gongfu Tea in Daily Life
(1) Gongfu tea set: A Yixing teapot or a gaiwan, three small tasting cups, and a tea tray
(2) Tea amount: About 5–8 g of Oolong tea
(3) The video below perfectly demonstrates the Gongfu tea brewing method and steps in daily life, including how to brew with both a Yixing teapot and a gaiwan.
Easy Traditional Guangdong Gongfu Tea
Guangdong Home-Style Gaiwan Brewing
3. Duck Shit Aroma (Ya Shi Xiang) and Honey Orchid Aroma (Mi Lan Xiang) Phoenix Dancong is the perfect match for Chaozhou Gongfu tea. When brewed using the Gongfu method, this oolong tea reveals a more intense aroma and a remarkably rich, satisfying taste.
Duck Shit Aroma (Ya Shi Xiang) and Honey Orchid Aroma (Mi Lan Xiang)
