The New Territories of Hong Kong is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, and its traditional tea houses are a testament to the region’s rich history and traditions. For centuries, tea has been an integral part of Chinese culture, symbolizing hospitality, respect, and community. In the New Territories, these time-honored customs are still alive and well, with each tea house offering a unique glimpse into the timeless art of tea drinking.
One of the most iconic traditional tea houses in the region is Lock Cha Tea House, located in the prestigious K.S. Lo Gallery at Hong Kong Park. This esteemed establishment is known for its authentic Cantonese-style tea service, which features unblended, single-harvest teas sourced directly from farmers. The menu also boasts an impressive selection of vegetarian dim sum, making it a holistic experience for tea lovers.
What sets Lock Cha apart is its cultural events and activities, such as Cantonese music concerts and tea appreciation classes, which showcase the tea house’s commitment to preserving traditional customs. Visitors can indulge in these experiences amidst the beautiful surroundings of Hong Kong Park, with its lush gardens and tranquil atmosphere.
Another notable mention is Yu Teahouse, a charming spot that seamlessly blends East-meets-West aesthetics. This teahouse offers an array of traditional tea and snack pairings, such as Tieguanyin oolong tea paired with almond cakes or Bai Mudan white tea served with apricots. What’s more, Yu Teahouse also hosts tea appreciation classes, providing a great opportunity for visitors to deepen their knowledge of tea culture.
For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, MingCha Tea House is a hidden gem nestled in a factory building in Chai Wan. This unassuming tea house boasts an impressive selection of wholesale fresh tea leaves and regularly hosts workshops and tea tastings. What’s truly unique about MingCha is its warm hospitality and dedication to preserving the craft of tea making.
In contrast, Fukien Tea Company stands out for its family-run business specializing in heavily roasted teas. The passionate tea master, Patrick Yeung, shares his expertise on traditional tea roasting techniques, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of this art form. The high-fire Tieguanyin oolong tea is roasted for 60 hours to bring out its floral notes, making it a true masterpiece.
Heritage Tea House, located in the Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre, offers a nostalgic take on Hong Kong food and an extensive selection of teas. This charming spot prides itself on its quality spread and budget-friendly prices, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a leisurely afternoon with traditional dim sum and tea.
Chas Yeh Yeh is another modernized tea house that aims to promote tea culture among younger generations. This trendy spot serves loose-leaf tea and tea-infused delicacies on circular rattan serving trays, blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics. The presentation is Instagram-worthy, making it a favorite among food bloggers and social media enthusiasts.
In the picturesque Tai O fishing village, Tai O Banyan Tree offers a serene setting with views of the sea. This tea house serves traditional tea and snacks while allowing visitors to soak in the village’s charm. What’s unique about this spot is its selling of ethnic homewares and decorative items, adding to its enchanting ambiance.
Green Ginkgo Tea, known for its hand-brewed tea, sources premium teas from Japan and China. Each pot of tea is brewed with precision, taking into account the type of tea and even the weather conditions. The knowledgeable tea baristas can guide visitors through the tea selection process, ensuring a truly personalized experience.
Teakha focuses on sharing the intricacies of tea through contemporary and friendly means. This tea house offers an impressive array of teas and regularly hosts workshops and pairing sessions, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to learn about tea.
Lastly, The Shophouse in Tai Hang is a unique tea house that combines art and culture with tea. The building features selected artworks by local and overseas artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere. This spot also boasts an artist studio on its rooftop garden, adding to its creative vibe.
For visitors planning to explore these traditional tea houses, here are some tips to keep in mind: best time to visit is weekdays (generally less crowded than weekends), follow the traditional tea-drinking customs (such as pouring tea for others before yourself), and payment methods usually include cash and credit cards (it’s always a good idea to carry some cash).
With this comprehensive guide, visitors can embark on their own tea journey in the New Territories, immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage and traditions of this enchanting region. As they sip their tea amidst the tranquil surroundings of these time-honored establishments, they will surely discover a world that is as steeped in history as it is in warmth and hospitality.
