Gongfu Tea Sets

A gongfu tea set — also known as a kung fu tea set — is a carefully arranged collection of teaware designed for brewing tea with intention and precision. Unlike casual Western tea styles, gongfu tea focuses on extracting the full character of the leaves through repeated short infusions.

What’s Included in a Gongfu Tea Set?

A traditional Kung Fu tea set typically contains:

• A small teapot or a gaiwan
• A fairness cup (Gong Dao Bei)
• A tea strainer or tea leak set
• Several small tasting cups
• A bamboo or wood tray to catch drips

Some complete gongfu tea sets also include tools like a tea scoop, needle, or cloth for a more ceremonial experience.

Why Is It Called Gongfu (Kung Fu) Tea?

The word “gongfu” (or “kung fu”) refers to skill developed through effort. In tea culture, it represents the attention and care involved in brewing. Every step — from the water temperature to the timing of each steep — requires mindfulness, turning tea into both a drink and a ritual.

Best Teas for Gongfu Brewing

Oolong, pu-erh, and even select green and white teas are ideal for this method. Their complex profiles unfold gradually with each short steep, allowing you to savour multiple layers of flavour in one session.

Portable Gongfu Tea Sets

Modern gongfu tea sets are often available in compact, travel-friendly cases. These sets are great for brewing tea in the office, on the road, or even outdoors, without sacrificing quality or tradition.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat the Teaware: Rinse your gaiwan, fairness cup, and tasting cups with hot water to warm them up.
• Measure the Tea Leaves: Use 5–8 grams of tea for a standard 100–150ml gaiwan or teapot.
• Rinse the Leaves: Add hot water, steep for a few seconds, then pour it out—this “awakens” the leaves.
• Brew the First Infusion: Steep for 10–30 seconds, depending on the tea type, then pour into the Fair cup.
• Serve the Tea: Distribute the liquor evenly into each tasting cup from the fairness pitcher.
• Repeat: Continue brewing the same leaves multiple times, increasing the steep time slightly with each round.

Brewing Tips for Better Flavour

• Use filtered water heated to about 85–95°C (185–203°F).
• Short infusions bring out layered notes and prevent bitterness.
• Take your time and adjust steeping based on taste—there’s no rush in gongfu.

A Moment of Stillness

Using a gongfu tea set isn’t just about flavour—it’s about presence. The deliberate pace, the aroma of the leaves, and the warm cups in your hand all invite calm. Whether you’re alone or hosting guests, gongfu tea offers a quiet celebration of the moment.