A Visitor’s Guide to Trying Herbal Tea in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a city where tradition meets modernity, and its herbal tea culture is a perfect example of this blend. Herbal teas, known as "liang cha" (涼茶) in Cantonese, are an integral part of Hong Kong’s culinary and wellness traditions. These teas are not only refreshing but also believed to have medicinal properties, helping to balance the body’s energy and treat minor ailments. Here’s a guide to help you explore and enjoy herbal tea during your visit to Hong Kong.
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1. What is Herbal Tea?
Definition: Herbal teas in Hong Kong are made from a variety of herbs, roots, flowers, and other natural ingredients. They are often brewed into a concentrated liquid and served warm or chilled.
Purpose: These teas are traditionally used to cool the body (reduce "heatiness" in Chinese medicine), aid digestion, relieve sore throats, or boost overall health.
Flavor profile: Herbal teas can range from sweet and floral to bitter and earthy, depending on the ingredients used.
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2. Popular Types of Herbal Tea
Here are some common herbal teas you’ll find in Hong Kong:
Wong Lo Kat (王老吉): A sweet, slightly herbal tea made from chrysanthemum, honeysuckle, and other ingredients. It’s widely available in bottled form.
Twenty-Four Flavors Tea (廿四味): A strong, bitter tea made from 24 different herbs. It’s known for its detoxifying properties.
Chrysanthemum Tea (菊花茶): A light, floral tea made from dried chrysanthemum flowers. It’s refreshing and helps cool the body.
Honeysuckle and Forsythia Tea (金銀花茶): A slightly sweet tea often used to soothe sore throats and reduce inflammation.
Five Flowers Tea (五花茶): A blend of five different flowers, known for its cooling and detoxifying effects.
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3. Where to Try Herbal Tea
Traditional Herbal Tea Shops
Kwan Kee Herbal Tea (坤記竹蔗水): A historic shop in Sham Shui Po known for its sugarcane water and herbal teas.
Hung Fook Tong (鴻福堂): A popular chain offering bottled herbal teas and fresh brews. They have locations all over Hong Kong.
Yau Ma Tei Herbal Tea Street: Explore this area for small, traditional herbal tea shops offering a variety of brews.
Street Stalls and Markets
Many street vendors and wet markets sell freshly brewed herbal teas. Look for signs that say "涼茶" (liang cha).
Modern Cafés and Restaurants
Some modern cafés and health-focused restaurants incorporate herbal teas into their menus, often with a creative twist.
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4. How to Order Herbal Tea
Ask for recommendations: If you’re unsure what to try, ask the shopkeeper for a recommendation based on your needs (e.g., cooling, digestion, or sore throat relief).
Sweet or bitter: Some herbal teas are naturally sweet, while others are bitter. If you prefer a sweeter taste, ask if they can add honey or rock sugar.
Hot or cold: Herbal teas can be served warm or chilled. Choose based on your preference or the weather.
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5. Tips for First-Time Drinkers
1. Start mild: If you’re new to herbal teas, begin with milder options like chrysanthemum tea or Wong Lo Kat before trying stronger brews like Twenty-Four Flavors Tea.
2. Be open-minded: Some herbal teas may taste bitter or earthy, but they are often appreciated for their health benefits.
3. Ask about benefits: Many shopkeepers are happy to explain the health benefits of each tea.
4. Stay hydrated: Herbal teas are a great way to stay hydrated while exploring the city.
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6. Cultural Etiquette
Sip slowly: Herbal teas are meant to be sipped slowly, allowing you to enjoy their flavors and benefits.
Respect tradition: Herbal tea shops are often family-run businesses with deep roots in the community. Be respectful and patient when ordering.
Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Hong Kong, but a simple thank you (多謝, "doh jeh" in Cantonese) is always appreciated.
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7. Bringing Herbal Tea Home
Bottled teas: Many shops and supermarkets sell bottled herbal teas, making them easy to take home as souvenirs.
Dried ingredients: Some shops sell dried herbs and tea blends, allowing you to brew your own herbal tea at home.
Tea bags: Modern brands offer herbal tea bags for convenience, often with English instructions.
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8. Pairing Herbal Tea with Local Snacks
Egg waffles (雞蛋仔): Pair a sweet herbal tea like chrysanthemum tea with this popular street snack.
Pineapple buns (菠蘿包): Enjoy a warm herbal tea with this buttery, sweet bun for a classic Hong Kong experience.
Dim sum: Sip on herbal tea to balance the richness of dim sum dishes like dumplings and buns.
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9. Health Benefits of Herbal Tea
Cooling properties: Many herbal teas are believed to reduce internal heat and prevent illnesses like sore throats and colds.
Digestive aid: Some teas, like Twenty-Four Flavors Tea, are known to aid digestion and detoxify the body.
Stress relief: Herbal teas like chrysanthemum tea are often used to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
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Herbal tea is more than just a drink in Hong Kong—it’s a cultural experience that connects you to the city’s traditions and wellness practices. Whether you’re sipping a sweet chrysanthemum tea or braving the bitterness of Twenty-Four Flavors Tea, you’re sure to find a brew that suits your taste and leaves you feeling refreshed. Enjoy your herbal tea adventure in Hong Kong!
