Recommended a simple small tea set for brewing: the versatile Gaiwan
When you open our tea gift box, you might wonder, ‘Besides the tasting cup, what is that small bowl-like thing?’
That is a Gaiwan.
In Europe, we are used to using teapots or teabags, but in China, the Gaiwan is the true “universal king” of the tea world. It is not only the most classic tool for brewing tea but also the minimalistic tea set we most recommend to modern tea enthusiasts.
Why is it worth trying? Because it is easy to use, looks great, and you only need one step to start.
Why Choose a Gaiwan?
A Gaiwan is composed of three parts: the saucer (base), the bowl (body), and the lid (cover). It is called the “all-purpose tea set” for three main reasons:
1. Pure Flavor:
Unlike Yixing clay teapots, porcelain Gaiwans do not absorb the fragrance of tea. This means that whether you are drinking fresh green tea, aromatic oolong, or rich Pu-erh, it can restore the authentic taste of the tea.
2. One for All:
You don’t need to buy different teapots for different teas. One Gaiwan can handle all the loose teas and tea cakes available in our store.
3. Elegant Ritual:
Its design is simple and elegant, smooth and warm in the hand like jade. Drinking tea with a Gaiwan is not only a taste experience but also a visual relaxation.
Easy to master in just three steps:
Many people think using a gaiwan is tricky because they’re afraid of burning their hands. In fact, as long as you master the correct technique, it’s even easier than holding a coffee cup.
Step 1: Warm & Load
● Just like preheating a coffee cup, first warm the gaiwan with hot water.
● Add your favorite tea leaves (for example, our Iceland Raw Tea or Banzhang Ripe Tea) into the bowl.
Step 2: Pour Water
● Pour in boiling water at 100°C. The open design of the gaiwan allows you to easily control the amount of water without worrying about spilling.
Step 3: The “Magic” Trick
● This is the key step! Hold the rim of the bowl with your thumb and middle finger, and gently press the lid knob with your index finger.
● Tilt the gaiwan slightly to leave a small gap; the tea will flow out like a waterfall while the leaves are perfectly held back by the lid.
○ Tip: When you’re just starting, you can leave a larger gap. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll love the feeling of controlling the flow of tea.
What scenarios is it suitable for?
● ☕ Breakfast Time (Morning Boost): Short on time in the morning? Using a gaiwan requires no complicated preparation, and you can brew a refreshing cup of tea in just a few minutes.
● 🧘♀️ Focus & Meditation (Mindfulness): The process of using a gaiwan is itself a form of “moving meditation.” Watching the tea leaves unfurl in the water and listening to the sound of the flow helps you calm down quickly.
● 🍷 Friend Gatherings (Socializing): When entertaining guests, brewing tea with a gaiwan looks both professional and stylish, and you can adjust the strength according to each guest’s taste.
Start your journey with the gaiwan
Don’t be intimidated by complicated tea ceremonies. The gaiwan is actually the most flexible way to brew tea—there are no cumbersome rules, just you and the tea having a conversation.
Next time you brew tea, try putting down the teapot and picking up that “little bowl.” You’ll find that making a good cup of Chinese tea is really simple.
💡 Give it a try now and experience that legendary “honey sweetness” with a gaiwan!
Living
Chinese style home life ornaments, collectible artwork; make your home move!
