Tourism GuideTea House Ceremony
Experience the authentic Cantonese tea culture at a traditional Guangzhou tea house where tea ceremonies blend with the vibrant dim sum dining tradition
Key Information
Best Time to Visit
Morning hours 7am-11am for authentic yum cha experience
Recommended Tea Houses
Panxi Restaurant Tao Tao Ju Guangzhou Restaurant
Must Try Teas
Tieguanyin Oolong Pu'er Tea Jasmine Tea
Signature Dim Sum
Har Gow Shrimp Dumplings Siu Mai Pork Dumplings Char Siu Bao BBQ Pork Buns
Cultural Significance
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage candidate
Historical Context
Originated during Qing Dynasty as merchant meeting places
Local Etiquette
Tap fingers on table to thank tea pourer refill others cups first
Seasonal Specialties
Different teas recommended for different seasons
Guangzhou tea house ceremonies represent the heart of Cantonese culinary and social culture Known as yum cha which literally means drink tea this tradition dates back to the Qing Dynasty when tea houses served as social hubs for merchants intellectuals and locals Today the tea ceremony is an integral part of Guangzhou life combining exquisite tea preparation with the famous dim sum dining experience The ceremony typically involves selecting premium teas like Tieguanyin Pu'er or Jasmine watching skilled tea masters perform precise brewing techniques and enjoying small delicate dishes in a lively communal atmosphere Traditional tea houses in Guangzhou often feature ornate decor with wooden furniture calligraphy scrolls and ceramic tea sets creating an authentic atmosphere that transports visitors back to ancient times
Things to Do
- Watch traditional tea masters demonstrate gongfu tea brewing techniques
- Sample various premium Chinese teas including local Guangdong varieties
- Enjoy authentic Cantonese dim sum served in bamboo steamers
- Learn about tea leaf selection and proper brewing temperatures
- Participate in tea tasting rituals and learn tea etiquette
- Observe the traditional tea pouring ceremony with long spout teapots
- Explore the tea house architecture and traditional decor elements
- Interact with local tea connoisseurs and learn tea culture history