Anhui
Green Tea
Pre-Qingming
Pan-firing
Tai Ping Hou Kui is a distinctive Chinese green tea from the mountainous region of Huangshan in Anhui Province. Known for its unique flat, straight leaves, orchid fragrance, and mellow, sweet taste, it stands as one of China's most recognizable and prestigious green teas.
Tai Ping Hou Kui (太平猴魁), meaning "Peaceful Monkey Leader," is a unique and prestigious Chinese green tea originating from the Tai Ping County area within the Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) region of Anhui Province. It is distinguished by its remarkably large, flat, and straight leaves, often measuring 5-10 cm in length.
This tea is celebrated for its complex flavor profile, featuring a prominent orchid fragrance (known as "lan xiang" 兰香), a smooth, mellow, and slightly sweet taste, and a lingering, refreshing aftertaste. The name "Hou Kui" (Monkey Leader) is said to refer to the skill required to pick the leaves from the high branches, much like a monkey's agility.
Tai Ping Hou Kui is considered one of China's top ten famous teas. Its production is strictly regulated, and only leaves grown in specific villages within the Tai Ping region can carry the authentic name. The finest grades are harvested before the Qingming Festival (Ming Qian) and are highly prized for their exceptional quality.
Distinctive orchid fragrance (lan xiang), floral, sweet
Smooth, mellow, sweet, clean, refreshing
Lingering, sweet, with a refreshing orchid aftertaste
The history of Tai Ping Hou Kui is relatively short compared to many other Chinese teas, dating back to the early 20th century, around 1900. It was created in the Houkeng (猴坑) village of Tai Ping County (now part of Huangshan City) in Anhui Province.
According to legend, a local tea farmer named Wang Jiaxun (王家训) developed the unique processing method for this tea. Inspired by the shape of the leaves and perhaps the agility of monkeys picking tea, he refined a technique to create the tea's signature flat, straight appearance.
The tea quickly gained recognition for its unique appearance and exceptional flavor. It has since become one of China's top ten famous teas and is protected by geographical indication status, ensuring its origin and quality.
"In Tai Ping Hou Kui, the mountain's strength is tamed into a leaf of unparalleled elegance and orchid grace." — Ancient Tea Saying
Creation of Tai Ping Hou Kui by Wang Jiaxun in Houkeng Village.
Initial recognition and local fame within Anhui Province.
National recognition, designation as one of China's top ten famous teas.
Geographical indication protection and global appreciation.
Leaves are hand-picked very early in the morning during the Pre-Qingming period (early April). The standard is typically "one bud and three to five leaves" (一芽三叶至五叶), selecting the largest and most robust leaves available.
Fresh leaves are spread out in thin layers and allowed to wither in shaded areas, reducing moisture content and making them pliable for the next steps. This can take several hours.
Leaves are heated in large iron woks at high temperatures to halt oxidation and preserve the green color and fresh flavor. This step is crucial for maintaining the tea's character.
This is the defining step for Tai Ping Hou Kui. While the leaves are still warm and pliable, they are carefully pressed and rolled between pieces of cloth or specialized tools to achieve the characteristic flat, straight, and ribbon-like shape. This requires great skill and precision.
The shaped leaves are dried at lower temperatures to remove remaining moisture, stabilize the tea for storage, and develop the final aroma and flavor profile, particularly the distinctive orchid fragrance.
Traditional Shaping Process
"The art of Hou Kui lies in the craftsman's ability to transform nature's largesse into a symphony of flat ribbons." — Master Tea Maker
Use water at 80-85°C (176-185°F). Slightly cooler than boiling to avoid bitterness.
First infusion: 2-3 minutes. Subsequent: Adjust to taste.
Use 3-5 grams of tea per 150-200 ml of water.
Use soft, filtered water for the best results.
Use a clear glass to appreciate the leaves' unique shape and color.
Can be steeped several times, with flavors evolving.
Focus on the distinctive "lan xiang" (orchid fragrance).
Best enjoyed in the morning to complement its robust character.
In TCM, Tai Ping Hou Kui, like other green teas, is generally considered to have a cool nature with sweet and bitter properties. It is believed to clear heat, detoxify the body, nourish yin energy, and promote healthy skin.
The tea is traditionally recommended for reducing internal heat, improving digestion, and supporting mental clarity. Its mellow nature makes it suitable for most constitutions.
Tai Ping Hou Kui, as a high-quality green tea, contains significant levels of catechins (especially EGCG), L-theanine, and antioxidants. These compounds contribute to its potential health benefits.
Research suggests that green tea consumption may support cardiovascular health, weight management, cognitive function, and provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Rich in catechins, neutralizes free radicals
Caffeine and L-theanine provide focused alertness
May support healthy cholesterol and circulation
Can boost metabolism and fat oxidation
Traditionally consumed to support digestion
Natural compounds may reduce harmful bacteria
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 0 | 0% |
| Caffeine | 20-30mg | 4-6% |
| Antioxidants (Catechins) | High | Significant |
| L-Theanine | Moderate | Beneficial |
| Fluoride | Moderate-High | Supportive |
| Minerals (Potassium, Magnesium) | Trace | Minimal |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual needs may vary.
Based on 0 reviews
Tai Ping Hou Kui is a distinctive Chinese green tea from the mountainous region of Huangshan in Anhui Province. Known for its unique flat, straight leaves, orchid fragrance, and mellow, sweet taste, it stands as one of China's most recognizable and prestigious green teas.
E Mei Zhu Ye Qing, meaning 'Bamboo Leaf Green of Mount Emei,' is a premium Chinese green tea from the sacred Buddhist mountain of Emei in Sichuan Province. Known for its flat, straight leaves resembling bamboo leaves, fresh aroma, and a clean, refreshing, and slightly sweet taste.
Meng Ding Gan Lu, meaning 'Sweet Dew of Mount Meng,' is a prestigious Chinese green tea from the misty peaks of Mount Mengding in Sichuan Province. Renowned for its delicate, sweet flavor, smooth texture, and the unique terroir influenced by the mountain's high altitude and ancient tea traditions.
Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content, brewing tips, and special offers.
We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.