In Shanghai, Starbucks is everywhere, and it seems like every young professional has a cup of coffee in hand. But in recent years, a new trend of embracing Chinese culture has emerged, and tea houses are becoming all the rage. Even the famous Jing’an Temple station has opened a Chinese-style tea house, where sipping on a hot cup of tea, paired with delicious snacks, has become the epitome of a relaxed and leisurely lifestyle for young people.
The hashtag “gathering around the stove to brew tea” has been trending like crazy on social media. During the recent Singles’ Day, tea pots, tea stoves, and tea mats became the hottest items on everyone’s shopping list. Some even join tea-brewing activities to meet new friends and expand their social circle.
Tea brewing has even made its way into the camping scene, with people setting up tea stoves in their campsites, enjoying a cup of tea while gazing at the starry sky. The cozy ambiance created by star-shaped lights hanging from tents makes for perfect Instagram-worthy moments.
Tea houses in downtown Shanghai usually charge around 300 RMB for a three-hour session for two people, with additional fees for extra guests or extended time. Prices may be slightly lower in second-tier cities, but you can still expect to pay at least 150-200 RMB. So, on one hand, you have the quick and intense kick of coffee, and on the other hand, you have the slow and soothing experience of brewing tea. These choices reflect two different attitudes towards life.
Which one do you think young Chinese consumers prefer?
resource：WeChat – 外滩TheBund r Red book – 伍叙
