The Ultimate Guide to Chinese Drinks: From Ancient Brews to Modern Sips

With its rich history and diverse culture, China has introduced the world to various Chinese drinks that tantalize the taste buds. From traditional Chinese tea to innovative beverages, these drinks satisfy not just the thirst but also offer health benefits and complement the wide array of spicy Chinese dishes.

Growing up, I always found solace in the comforting embrace of these beverages. Each sip took me back to cherished childhood memories, reminding me of family gatherings around a pot of freshly brewed tea or summer afternoons with a chilled glass of a favorite local drink. The nostalgia is overwhelming, and the connection is deep.

In this article, let’s discover the flavors and stories behind these beverages and, perhaps, take a trip down memory lane.

Traditional Chinese drinks

When it comes to beverages that have stood the test of time, China has a wealth of options that have been loved for generations. Let's look at some traditional Chinese drinks that continue winning hearts and tantalizing taste buds.

Green tea

Green tea is undoubtedly one of the most consumed drinks in China. It is not just a beverage but a symbol of Chinese culture. Historically, green tea has been prized for its health benefits and remains a staple in many households. With several types available, it is a delight for the taste buds.

1. Dragon Well (Longjing): 

One of the most renowned Chinese green teas, Dragon Well, hails from Hangzhou. Recognized for its flat, jade-green leaves and nutty aroma, it is a perfect introduction to high-quality green tea. A sip promises chestnut undertones and a lingering sweet aftertaste.

2. Biluochun: 

Another gem is Biluochun, which hails from the Jiangsu province. It distinguishes itself with its intricately spiraled leaves and a fruity aroma that captivates. Its evocative name, "Green Snail Spring," alludes to its characteristic appearance and the season of its harvest.

Oolong tea

Oolong tea elegantly bridges the gap between green and black teas, giving tea enthusiasts the best elements of both types. With its signature flavor and laden health benefits, oolong tea has carved out a significant place in the preferences of many. Further deepening the allure of oolong tea is its variety, ensuring that every experience with it remains unique and memorable.

3. Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe):

Da Hong Pao | Loongese Tea

Often revered as the sovereign of Oolong teas, Da Hong Pao weaves a captivating blend of legend and exquisite flavor. Its roots trace back to the majestic Wuyi Mountains in Fujian province (my hometown!). As an oolong tea, it boasts a dark richness, with its flavors meandering from the delicate notes of flowers to the robustness of smoky undertones.

4. Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess of Mercy): 

Paying homage to the Buddhist deity Guanyin, this tea, also from the Fujian province, is a more floral variant of oolong. Lighter than Da Hong Pao, its aroma is enchantingly fragrant, leaving an enduring impression on one's senses.

"Tie" translates to iron, so the name translates to "Iron Goddess of Mercy."

Black tea

Darker and more robust than its counterparts due to its higher oxidation levels, black tea boasts a rich and bold flavor. This tea is an absolute favorite in China and has also brewed its charm across global tea cups.

5. Keemun: 

Chinese Keemun dried tea leaves

Originating from Qimen County in Anhui province, Keemun is known for its aromatic fragrance that can remind one of pine, fruit, and flowers. It is smooth, with a hint of sweetness, and is also one of the main teas used for English Breakfast blends.

6. Dianhong: 

Yunnan Dian Hong Black Tea | Teasenz

This is a black tea from Yunnan province with a sweeter edge than other Chinese black teas. Its bold, malty flavor with a touch of honey makes it a favorite among black tea lovers.

White tea

Often referred to as the purest form of tea, white tea undergoes the least processing, preserving the natural essence of the tea leaf. Not only is it a soothing beverage to the palate, but white tea, with its myriad of antioxidants, has also been linked to many health benefits.

7. Silver Needle (Baihao Yinzhen): 

Baihao Yinzhen | Lastea 

This delicate white tea uses only the youngest tea buds from the Fujian province. It has a sweet, silky flavor and is known for its various health benefits.

8. White Peony (Bai Mudan): 

White Peony Bai Mu Dan | Arogya Holistic Healing

Also from Fujian, White Peony includes both the buds and leaves of the tea plant. It is slightly stronger than Silver Needle but maintains that characteristic white tea delicacy.

More traditional Chinese drinks

9. Chrysanthemum tea

Chrysanthemum flowers in kettle

This Chinese tea is a cooling and soothing drink made from dried flowers. Chrysanthemum tea is particularly a popular drink in the summer months for its refreshing quality. Not only is it delicious, but chrysanthemum tea is also said to have medicinal properties according to traditional Chinese medicine.

10. Soy milk

Starting the day the Chinese way often involves a glass of soy milk. A ubiquitous breakfast beverage, soy milk finds its place in numerous Chinese homes, filling mornings with its rich taste.

Packed with proteins, it is not just a healthy kickstart to the day but also an excellent choice for vegans. You will often find it paired with fried dough sticks, known as "you tiaos," rounding off a traditional breakfast delight.

Chinese Alcoholic beverages

China has a rich history when it comes to alcoholic beverages. Their brewing traditions date back thousands of years, where, over time, some brands have become synonymous with quality and tradition in their respective categories. Let's take a closer look.

Rice wine

Rice wine, especially fermented sweet rice wine, is an ancient alcoholic beverage. The process involves fermenting rice; sometimes, the result is an unfiltered rice wine. Its unique taste and traditions have made it an integral part of many Chinese celebrations.

11. Shaoxing wine: 

Shaoxing Wine | The Woks of Life 

A type of yellow wine made from fermented rice, Shaoxing wine is popularly used in cooking as well as for drinking. It is named after the Shaoxing region in Zhejiang province, where it is primarily produced.

12. Mijiu: 

Mi Jiu | Made-in-China.com

This is clear rice wine, similar to sake in Japan. Made from glutinous rice, it often features a sweet taste.

Baijiu (White liquor)

With its clear and enticing appearance, Baijiu is crafted from the distillation of fermented sorghum, occasionally with other grains. It stands as a pillar of Chinese culture and deeply ingrained traditions.

13. Moutai: 

Moutai Baijiu | Cocktails & Bars

Originating from Guizhou province, Moutai is perhaps the most renowned brand of Baijiu. It has a unique and complex flavor profile and has even been given as diplomatic gifts.

14. Wuliangye: 

Wuliangye | Cocktails & Bars

Another top brand made from a blend of five grains. It is known for its aromatic nature and is produced in the Sichuan province.

15. Erguotou: 

Erguotou | Asian Recipe

A type of Baijiu popular in Beijing, it is often associated with the working class and is known for its stronger taste.

Huangjiu (Yellow Liquor)

While Baijiu captures hearts with distillation, Huangjiu, on the other hand, is a brewed affair. The Shaoxing region often comes to mind when one speaks of Huangjiu.

16. Gu Yue Long Shan: 

Gu Yue Long Shan Hua Tiao | Grocermart

One of the most renowned Huangjiu brands, it offers a variety of wines ranging in taste and maturity.

17. Nu Er Hong: 

Nu Er Hong Rice Wine | Whisky Auction

Another exceptional Huangjiu brand, Nu Er Hong, is cherished for its sweet and mellow flavor, often stored in beautifully decorated ceramic bottles that symbolize love and affection.

Chinese Beer

Regarding beer, Tsingtao stands out as the most recognized Chinese beer. Originating from the Qingdao province, it has garnered international recognition.

18. Tsingtao: 

Tsingtao beer | Goldthread

Based in Qingdao, Shandong province, the Tsingtao beer is among the most recognized Chinese beer brands globally. It offers a crisp and slightly malty flavor.

19. Snow Beer

Snow Beer | Bloomberg

This brand has gained immense popularity and, by volume, has been considered one of the best-selling beers in the world. Produced by CR Snow, a joint venture between China Resources Enterprise and SABMiller, it is light and refreshing.

Cocktails

With the rise of cocktail culture in China, certain brands have become favorites for mixing.

20. Rio:

RIO锐澳鸡尾酒 | Sohu

Catering to the newer generation of alcohol enthusiasts, Rio is a ready-to-drink cocktail sensation. Its fruity undertones guarantee a light and refreshing experience.

Popular Chinese drinks today: Both modern and traditional favorites

From the classic taste of teas to the modern excitement of new-age fizzes, China's beverage scene is an intoxicating mix of old and new. Let's look at the hottest drinks today.

Boba/Bubble tea

Bubble tea, or pearl milk tea, stormed onto the beverage scene and gained immense popularity globally. This sweetened milk tea has tapioca balls or 'pearls' at the bottom and is typically made with either black or green tea as the base. Bubble tea originated in Taiwan, but today, it is synonymous with modern Chinese drinks.

Today, bubble tea shops have expanded their offerings to tea and other creative juices to keep up with the taste buds of youths.

21. Heytea: 

Heytea in Suzhou | China Daily

Founded in 2012 in Jiangmen, Guangdong, Heytea initially gained recognition for its unique cheese-topped milk teas. Their expertise does not just stop at tea; they have made waves with their fruit brews, blooming teas, and much more.

22. Nayuki: 

Nayuki | Daxue Consulting

Another giant in the bubble tea world, Nayuki sets itself apart by pairing fresh fruit teas with soft, delectable pastries. Their teas often boast a fresh, aromatic flavor profile, and their signature bread, the “Pillow Bread,” is a soft, cloud-like treat that pairs perfectly with their beverages.

23. Gong Cha: 

Gong Cha | FoodChain Magazine

This is one of the pearl milk tea OGs that has expanded beyond China. From its classic pearl milk tea to more innovative offerings like Brown Sugar Milk Tea, Gong Cha constantly evolves its menu to meet the changing demands of its global clientele.

China's healthy and innovative drinks

The youth of China are riding the wave of innovation, and the beverage industry is just a little behind.

24. Chapai: 

Chapai | Alibaba

Chapai might sound traditional, but it is as modern as it gets. It is an innovative drink concoction and a favorite among youngsters looking for something new to tickle their taste buds. It is fun, fresh, and super delicious!

25. Genki soda: 

Genki soda | Food Navigator

Pop goes the bottle, and out fizzes the excitement of Genki soda. The enthusiasm, the unique flavors, and the sheer joy it brings make it an instant hit. Genki soda is more than just a drink; it’s a bubbly experience.

Chinese fruit juice

The fruit juice market in China has seen a surge in recent years. From traditional flavors like lychee and orange to exotic blends like pomegranate and blueberry, there’s a flavor for every palate. Some prominent brands in China include:

26. Huiyuan juice: 

Huiyuan | The China Project

Established in the late '90s, it is one of the largest juice producers in China, offering a variety of flavors.

27. Minute Maid (Pulpy): 

Minute Maid | Alibaba

Owned by Coca-Cola, the 'Pulpy' variant has seen tremendous success in the Chinese market due to its unique texture and flavors tailored for Chinese taste buds.

Chinese yogurt drinks

These are delicious drinks made from sweetened and fermented milk. Often, they are consumed as refreshments or as breakfast beverages. Unlike conventional Western yogurt like Chobani, these yogurt drinks usually come with straws and are made for easy drinking on the go. I will lug a big pack home whenever I am back in China.

28. Ambrosial: 

Yili Ambrosial | Dairy Reporter

Yili Ambrosial is an ambient Greek-style yogurt drink that was first introduced in China in 2014. This yogurt is creamy and flavourful and remained a crowd-favorite ever since it launched in China.

29. Chun Zhen: 

ChunZhen Yogurt | Marché Fu Tai

Close on Ambrosial's heels, we have Chun Zhen. It carries with it the nostalgia of traditional yogurt yet presents it in a modern, convenient form. It is the blend of the old and the new, and oh boy, does it taste delightful!

More popular Chinese drinks

30. Coconut milk drinks

海南 椰树牌 椰汁 | Amazon

Coconut milk drinks are another popular choice. Whether enjoyed alone or mixed with other ingredients, they offer a tropical taste that’s hard to resist.

One of the most recognized brands in China is "Coconut Palm." Their catchy advertisements and high-quality products have captured a significant portion of the market.

31. Sour plum drink

Sour Plum Drink | The Woks of Life

This tangy beverage is a summer favorite. They are made with smoked plums, rock sugar, and osmanthus flowers; the sour plum drink is a delight for the taste buds.

The drink is not just favored for its taste but also its cooling properties. It is believed to help reduce internal body heat, making it perfect for sipping after indulging in spicy Chinese dishes.

---

Frequently asked questions

Why do Chinese people drink hot water?

Well, here is the scoop: Many people in China firmly believe in the numerous health benefits of drinking hot water. They say it not only aids in digestion, making those delicious dumplings settle a bit better, but it is also a key player in boosting blood circulation. On a more philosophical note, hot water is seen as a natural remedy to balance out the body's yin and yang – a concept deeply rooted in traditional Chinese thought.

What is the most popular cocktail in China?

China boasts a rich tapestry of cocktails, each with unique flavor and flair. However, if there's one drink that's been making waves recently, it is the "Rio." The reason behind its skyrocketing popularity? Apart from its delightful taste, it has been pushed with some seriously catchy advertising campaigns.

What is the national drink of China?

The answer to this one is steeped in history—pun intended! It is tea, and more specifically, the ever-refreshing green tea. This leafy brew has been a staple for the Chinese for thousands of years. More than just a drink, it symbolizes the nation's rich culture and heritage. Whenever you sip on some green tea, you're partaking in a tradition that's as old as some of the grandest dynasties of China!

How does the Chinese tea ceremony play a role in their culture?

Great question! Tea ceremonies in China are about more than just drinking tea; they're deeply rooted in tradition and reflect the country's respect for ritual and hospitality. These ceremonies symbolize peace, purity, and harmony and are a means to connect, show respect, and build relationships spiritually.

They can be seen during various occasions, from daily gestures of respect between the young and old to formal occasions like weddings. Every movement in the ceremony, such as selecting tea leaves and the actual pouring, is meticulously choreographed, highlighting the importance of patience and mindfulness.

How is drinking etiquette different in China compared to the West?

Ah, stepping into the intriguing world of customs and etiquette, aren't we? In China, drinking, especially when it comes to alcohol, is a communal activity entrenched in centuries-old traditions. For starters, you'll notice that when you're offered a drink, it is customary to receive it with both hands as a sign of respect.

It is common for individuals to pour drinks for others rather than for themselves. When toasting, you'll find it polite to make sure the rim of your glass is lower than that of elders or superiors, symbolizing respect. And oh, if someone clinks your glass and says, "Gānbēi!" It is an encouragement to finish your drink in one go! However, always drink at your comfort level.

What do young people in China like to drink?

Today's youth in China are health-conscious and environmentally aware. They are leaning towards zero-calorie, sugarless drinks. The increasing demand for such beverages indicates a shift towards healthier choices. But it is not just about health. They want innovation. They crave uniqueness. They desire experiences. Hence, innovation is the mantra for beverage companies if they wish to woo this demographic.

---

Wrapping it up

The beverages of China are not just mere drinks; they are a reflection of its vast heritage, traditions, and the warmth of its people. From every steaming cup of tea to the contemporary drinks, there's a story waiting to be told and memories to be made.

For some, like me, these beverages are a reminiscent journey to the bygone days of yore, evoking deep-seated feelings of nostalgia. Whether you're a native, an enthusiast, or a newcomer to Chinese drinks, there's a flavor that will resonate with your soul, just as it has for centuries. Here's to more sips, more stories, and countless memories! 

Jing You is a Chinese native who grew up in the Fujian province and soaked in the Chinese culture while living with her grandparents. She later moved to Singapore to pursue further education. However, she has always been passionate about the Mandarin language despite being in an environment that speaks English predominantly. She was involved in multiple Mandarin and Chinese culture programmes in schools, and brought this passion forward by tutoring elementary school students Mandarin in her adulthood.