The Art of Chinese Tea: A Timeless Tradition in Holiday Gatherings

Chinese tea has thousands of years of history and remains one of the world’s most cherished beverages. At Veterans Park in Redondo Beach, we often meet people who are curious about tea — how to brew it, how to choose it, and how it affects the body. Here are the most popular questions people ask us, along with clear answers to help you enjoy Chinese tea with confidence. 1. What are the main types of Chinese tea? Chinese tea is traditionally categorized by the level of oxidation and processing method. The six main types are: China also has specialty and scented teas such as Jasmine tea, Liu Bao, and Dark Tea (黑茶). 2. What is the difference between Raw Pu-erh and Ripe Pu-erh? Raw Pu-erh (Sheng) Ripe Pu-erh (Shou) 3. Which Chinese teas are the healthiest? All true teas come from the same plant (Camellia sinensis) and offer antioxidants, minerals, and calming energy. Different teas support different wellness needs: The “healthiest” tea is the one that aligns with your body’s needs, your daily rhythm, and how it makes you feel. 4. How do you properly brew Chinese tea? Brewing depends on tea type, but the Gongfu tea method gives the best results: 5. How do you store Chinese tea? General rules: 6. Why is Chinese tea so expensive? Real Chinese tea is labor-intensive and often handmade. Price reflects: High-end tea is similar to fine wine—rare, handcrafted, and deeply cultural. 7. What is the meaning of Gongfu Tea? Gongfu (工夫) Tea means “tea made with skill and effort.” It is a traditional Chinese brewing method that emphasizes: It is not only a brewing technique but also a way to slow down and enjoy life. 8. What equipment do I need for Chinese tea? Essential tools: Optional but enjoyable: 9. How can I choose a high-quality tea? Look for: 10. What is the history and culture behind Chinese tea? Chinese tea culture spans over 4,000 years: Tea is a symbol of harmony, respect, purity, and peace. 11. Is loose leaf tea better than tea bags? Generally, yes. Loose leaf tea contains whole leaves with full flavor, aroma, and nutrients.Tea bags often contain broken fannings or dust—lower quality with fewer layers of flavor. Loose leaf also allows multiple re-steeps and a more authentic experience. 12. How many times can you re-steep tea? Depends on tea type and quality: High-quality tea lasts many more infusions than low-grade tea. 13. How do you tell if a tea is organic or clean? Key indicators: In China, many of the cleanest teas come from high mountains where chemical use is minimal or unnecessary. 14. Is Chinese tea caffeinated? Yes, all real tea from Camellia sinensis contains caffeine, but: Ripe Pu-erh and aged teas often feel gentler. 15. What are ancient tree teas? Ancient tree (古树) teas come from tea trees that are often: Flavors are more complex, smooth, and energetically powerful. 16. Where do your teas come from? Our teas come from the mountains and villages of China our founder Jack Jiao personally visit—Yunnan, Fujian, Zhejiang, Guangdong, and more. We source directly from farmers, tea makers, and ancient tea tree regions to ensure authenticity, freshness, and purity. 17. What is your favorite tea? My favorite tea depends on the moment. In the morning, I enjoy Raw Pu-erh or Oolong for energy and clarity. In the evening, I prefer Ripe Pu-erh or aged White tea for calmness and grounding. Tea matches our mood, season, and life pace. Whether you are new to Chinese tea or already a tea lover, the beauty of tea is that it grows with you. If you would like to experience these teas in person, join our tea tasting at Veterans Park for your next tea sessions — where tea tasting becomes friend making.