Refer From:What’s Gaiwan Tea Set?

A gaiwan is a small lidded bowl, usually made of porcelain, ceramic or glass. It holds 100-150 ml and is used for brewing and serving tea.

The lid is round and flat with a handle for easy lifting. It controls temperature, infusion time and strains loose leaves. The lid does not affect the tea's flavor. Unlike metal or plastic teapots, porcelain does not alter the taste. This ensures full, authentic flavor from the tea leaves.

Gaiwans are important in traditional Chinese tea culture. They are essential tools for preparing tea. In tea ceremonies, leaves go in the gaiwan. Hot water is added. The lid controls steeping time. Guests often drink directly from the gaiwan or pass it around.

Gaiwans are prized for their simplicity and versatility. They allow precise control over brewing and can make any tea: green, black, oolong or pu-erh. Today, tea enthusiasts use gaiwans for loose-leaf tea worldwide.

Gaiwans also have cultural significance and beauty. Handcrafted gaiwans may have intricate decorations, making a unique addition to any tea set.

Some key benefits of gaiwans:

  • They do not affect flavor. Porcelain extracts only the tea's essence.
  • They enable control and customization. The lid controls steeping time for optimal flavor from each leaf. More leaf or longer steep for subsequent cups.
  • They facilitate a creative, hands-on process. Adjusting water temperature and leaf amount produces nuanced flavor with each cup.
  • They have cultural meaning. Gaiwans represent a traditional tea ceremony and passing of tea as a shared, valued custom.
  • They offer versatility. Gaiwans work for all teas: green, black, oolong, pu-erh as well as snacks, rice or other small foods.
  • They provide aesthetic value. Decorative, handcrafted gaiwans become treasured objects of beauty and memories.
  • They inspire mindfulness. The focused, hands-on process of preparing tea with a gaiwan cultivates presence and appreciate for simple moments.
    In summary, gaiwans embody the philosophy that the journey is as important as the destination. They make the preparation and sharing of tea an art, rather than a habit. When using a gaiwan, each gesture becomes meaningful, and each cup a new creation.