What is a Gaiwan?

A gaiwan, often called a Chinese tea bowl, is one of the most beloved and widely used pieces of teaware in China. If you're new to tea culture, you might think a gaiwan is simply a tea drinking cup. However, its main purpose is for brewing tea. Unlike a traditional teapot, the gaiwan allows for greater visibility of the tea leaves as they unfold during the brewing process. This allows you to appreciate not only the tea's aroma but also its appearance. The lid of a gaiwan is used not only to cover the tea but also to capture the aroma, offering an immersive tea experience.

Why Choose a Gaiwan for Tea Brewing?

If you're a tea enthusiast looking to deepen your understanding of traditional Chinese tea-making, a gaiwan is an excellent tool to perfect your brewing technique. Whether you're steeping oolong or pu erh tea, a gaiwan allows for precise control over the brewing process, ensuring the full development of the tea's flavor profile.

In contrast to other teapots, a gaiwan provides greater flexibility, as you can adjust the steeping time by simply lifting the lid to check the tea's strength. Unlike Yixing teapots, which are better suited for long-term use with specific tea types, the gaiwan is versatile and works well for all types of tea, especially those requiring more attention during the brewing process.

If you are a beginner, you can read our gaiwan user guide for details: How to Use a Gaiwan for Brewing Perfect Chinese Tea

Traditional to Modern Gaiwans: Designs That Evolve with Time

At FONG’S TEA, we offer a curated collection of gaiwans that blend both traditional and modern designs.

Our selection is made from high-quality materials that maintain the spirit of Chinese tea culture, while also adapting to modern needs. Whether you're an experienced tea drinker or a beginner, our gaiwans are designed to enhance your tea experience while remaining functional and beautiful.