Gaiwans

The Gaiwan is a unique and traditional Chinese teaware. It consists of three parts: a lid, a bowl, and a saucer. This versatile vessel can be used for both brewing and drinking tea, making it intriguing in Chinese tea culture.

What is a Gaiwan?

A Gaiwan features a lid, a bowl, and a saucer. It can be used for both drinking and brewing tea. Originally, like a teacup, it was used for drinking tea. However, with the popularity of Gongfu tea, the Gaiwan evolved into a brewing tool similar to a teapot.

Gaiwan Tea Set with Gongfu Tray

When drinking Gongfu tea, the saucer is essential to prevent burns. Experienced users might replace the saucer with a tray or use none at all. The lid allows the Gaiwan to function as a brewing tool.

How to Use a Gaiwan?

1. Gaiwan as a Tea Cup Using a Gaiwan as a teacup is straightforward. Simply pour the tea from a teapot or a tea pitcher into the Gaiwan.

2. Gaiwan as a Tea Pot Place tea leaves and hot water into the Gaiwan to brew. Once brewed, hold the Gaiwan and pour the tea into a tea pitcher. The tea will flow smoothly from the gap between the lid and the bowl, creating a waterfall effect. The lid acts as a filter, separating the tea leaves from the liquid.

3. Can you brew and drink directly from a Gaiwan? It is strongly discouraged to drink directly from a Gaiwan after brewing. This practice loses the essential principles and ceremony of tea drinking. The steeping time is crucial for flavor, and waiting for the tea to cool in the Gaiwan will over brew it, ruining the taste.

Gaiwan vs Teapot

1. Shape: A Gaiwan consists of a bowl, lid, and saucer, while a tea pot has a body with a handle and a spout.
2. Size: Generally, a Gaiwan is smaller than a tea pot.
3. Function: A Gaiwan can be used both for drinking and brewing tea, whereas a tea pot is solely for brewing.
4. Usage Scenarios: A Gaiwan is suitable for small gatherings and leisurely Gongfu tea sessions, whereas a tea pot is ideal for serving larger groups due to its capacity.

Different Materials of Gaiwan Tea Sets

1. Clay Gaiwan Clay is more suitable for brewing tea, ideal for those who prefer vintage styles.
2. Porcelain Gaiwan Porcelain Gaiwans are the most popular choice today.
3. Glass Gaiwan Although not very common, glass Gaiwans are modern and allow you to see the tea leaves steeping.

Large Gaiwan

Larger Gaiwans are not suitable for drinking but are great for brewing tea.

Travel Gaiwan

A travel Gaiwan, or Gaiwan travel set, is designed for tea enthusiasts who wish to enjoy traditional tea brewing while on the go. These sets typically include a compact Gaiwan and sometimes additional accessories, making it convenient to carry and use anywhere.