There are six steps to use a Gaiwan: 1. Warm and clean. 2. Add tea leaves. 3. Pour hot water. 4. Remove the foam. (optional). 5. Pour the tea. 6. enjoy it.
A gaiwan, also known as a “three-piece lidded bowl,” consists of a lid, bowl and saucer. It symbolizes the harmony of heaven, earth, and humanity and is one of the most representative vessels in traditional Chinese tea culture.
Steps to Use a Gaiwan
Rinse the gaiwan with hot water to remove any dust and to preheat the vessel.
Place an appropriate amount of tea leaves into the bowl (approx. 3-5g or 1/4 to 1/3 full). .Use fewer leaves for green and yellow teas, and slightly more for oolong and black teas.
Add water at the correct temperature according to the tea type. You can pour from a higher angle (“high pour”) or gently along the wall of the gaiwan (“low pour”) to help the leaves unfurl. Brew the tea for 3-5 seconds.
For the first infusion, you may use the lid to gently sweep away any floating foam for a clearer brew.
Hold the gaiwan with the saucer and use the lid to press back the leaves, leaving a small opening. Tilt the bowl and pour the tea into a fairness pitcher or directly into small tasting cups. When holding the Gaiwan, use your thumb and middle finger to grip the rim, index finger to rest lightly on the lid knob to adjust or secure the lid.
Note: Usually, we don’t drink the first brew of tea. Pour it out and repeat the above steps, we drink the second brew of tea.
Sip slowly to appreciate the aroma, flavor, and evolving layers of the tea. A gaiwan retains heat well, allowing multiple infusions of the same leaves.
Tips:
- Green and yellow teas: use water around 80°C (176°F).
Oolong and black teas: use hotter water, close to boiling.
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Handle gently to avoid spills or burns.
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Pay attention to the position of your fingers holding the Gaiwanand the appropriate opening when pouring tea.
