Tieguanyin: One of China’s Top Ten Famous Teas
Fragrance Lasts Through Seven Steeps, Aroma Lingers After the Sip
�� Introduction: What is Tieguanyin?
Tieguanyin (also spelled “TGY” or “Iron Goddess of Mercy”) is a type of Chinese Oolong tea, regarded as one of China’s top ten famous teas.
It originates from Xiping Town, Anxi County, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province. Tieguanyin is both the name of the tea and the tea cultivar. Among all varieties, Red-Heart Tieguanyin is considered the most original and authentic.
Known for its rich aroma, lingering sweetness through multiple infusions, and the unique “Guanyin Rhyme”, this tea has won the hearts of countless tea enthusiasts worldwide.
�� Tea Category at a Glance
| Category | Description |
| Tea Type | Oolong (Wulong) |
| Fermentation | Semi-Fermented |
| TCM Property | Neutral (Not hot or cold) |
| Origin | Anxi, Fujian, China |
�� Health Benefits of Tieguanyin Tea
- • Aids Digestion & Reduces Greasiness – Helps to relieve bloating, stimulate digestion, and ease a heavy stomach.
- • Weight Management & Fat Metabolism – Assists in reducing body fat and promoting weight loss.
- • Detox & Cooling Effects – Moistens the throat, cools internal heat, and promotes saliva production.
- • Improves Skin and Throat Health – Great for those who suffer from dryness or sore throat due to dry environments.
☕ How to Brew Tieguanyin (Traditional Gongfu Style)
Recommended Ratio: 8g tea / 110ml Gaiwan / 100°C water
Tip: Use high-quality spring water if possible.
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide:
- • Warm the Teaware – Pour boiling water into the gaiwan or teapot to cleanse and warm it.
- • Add the Tea Leaves – Measure 8g of Tieguanyin and add to your gaiwan.
- • Quick Rinse (Awakening the Leaves) – Pour hot water over the leaves and discard the first infusion after 5–10 seconds.
- • First Steep – Pour 100°C water evenly over the leaves. Steep for 15–30 seconds.
- • Pour Completely – Drain all tea into a fairness cup to avoid over-steeping and bitterness.
Pro Tips:
- • Adjust steeping time: Increase each steep by 5 seconds.
- • Always pour out completely to preserve flavor for future infusions.
- • Ideal for 7–9 steeps, each revealing new layers of fragrance.
�� Storage Tips for Tieguanyin
| Storage Form | Recommended Method |
| Sealed Sachets | Store in airtight tins; place on a tea shelf or cupboard. |
| Loose Leaf Tea | Vacuum-seal in foil bags or expel excess air manually. |
| Storage Conditions | Keep in dry, cool (<25°C), odor-free, and dark spaces. |
�� Ideal humidity: below 50%
�� Best storage life: 24 to 36 months
������ Who Should Drink Tieguanyin?
- ✅ Recommended for:
- • People with bloating or indigestion
- • Those with high blood lipids
- • Individuals suffering from dry mouth or heatiness
- ❌ Not recommended for:
- • People with anemia