Ceremonial Gift Tea Set

The original term "Gongfu Cha" literally means "making tea with efforts".  Originated from the concept of Tao, Yin-and- Yang, and Zen.

While gongfu cha is mostly practiced with oolong and pu-erh, every tea can be prepared this way. It lies in the complex flavour profiles of these two tea types that they are best enjoyed this way.

 It is geared towards the sensual experience of all aspects of tea rather than being a mainly aesthetic act. While it can be performed by anyone and in many different ways, scholars devote a lifetime pursuing the perfect cup of tea.

The different steps involved in gongfu cha aim at stimulating all senses: sight, smell, touch and taste.

Preparing multiple short infusions with the same tea leaves lets you experience different stages of the infusion individually, rather than “integrating” these infusions into one resulting flavour with a 4-minute infusion.

Ball-shaped oolongs for example take a long time to unfurl and in the earlier infusions, the hot water interacts with a much smaller surface area of the leaves as in later infusions. This creates very different tastes in each infusion.

Aged pu-ehrs require a few infusions to “clean” the flavour and reveal more subtle notes.

The environment should compliment the delicacy of the ceremony. Peaceful, relaxing settings are preferred. Soft, slow music also adds to the serenity of the atmosphere. Incense, flowers, and dim light should also be included for peacefulness.

 Chinese Gongfu Tea is a very relaxed event, and people can speak freely with each other throughout the entire process.