China’s extensive history stretches back thousands of years, and its rich commercial heritage reflects this long timeline. Many of the country’s oldest stores, some of which date back several centuries, stand as living witnesses to China’s evolution as one of the oldest civilizations. These iconic stores are more than mere businesses; they represent a blend of cultural tradition, craftsmanship, and resilience, demonstrating how commerce once intertwined with culture and identity amid dynamic historical shifts.
In this article, we’ll explore ten of the oldest stores in China—each with unique histories and functions—giving you a glimpse into the enduring legacy of China’s commercial past. These stores are invaluable cultural treasures, offering insights into the evolution of Chinese entrepreneurship across generations.
Oldest Stores in China
1. Tongrentang
Established in 1669 during the Qing Dynasty, Tongrentang is one of China’s oldest and most prestigious traditional Chinese medicine brands. Founded by Yue Xianyang in Beijing, the store quickly garnered fame as the official supplier of herbal medicines to the imperial court. Its reputation stemmed from its commitment to producing high-quality, efficacious remedies using rare and premium ingredients.
Even today, Tongrentang operates under the same guiding principles laid out centuries ago: “No compromises on materials, no savings in effort, and no skimping on labor.” Over time, the store’s legacy has expanded internationally, with branches across Asia and beyond. Tongrentang remains a shining example of how traditions in health and wellness can endure and thrive in the modern era while maintaining authenticity.
2. Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant
Founded in 1864, Quanjude occupies a special place in China’s culinary history. This famous Beijing-based restaurant is renowned for its Peking duck, which has become synonymous with refined Chinese cuisine. Established during the Qing Dynasty, Quanjude perfected the art of roasting duck and introduced a unique preparation technique called “hanging roasting.”
The restaurant is not merely a place to enjoy a meal but a cultural institution that reflects the culinary ingenuity of the Chinese people. Quanjude’s enduring popularity has resulted in expansion to several locations worldwide, yet its flagship store in Beijing remains a must-visit destination for food lovers and history buffs alike.
3. Changsha Huogongdian
Dating back to the Tang Dynasty over 1,000 years ago, Huogongdian (meaning Fire Palace) in Changsha stands as one of the oldest operational food establishments in China. Initially founded as a temple dedicated to the Fire God, it eventually transformed into a restaurant celebrated for its spicy Hunan cuisine.
The dishes served here are deeply rooted in regional traditions, offering an authentic taste of Hunan culinary heritage. The historical atmosphere of Huogongdian adds a layer of mystique, as its ancient architecture evokes a sense of stepping back in time. Local patrons and visitors both see the restaurant as an emblem of cultural pride and culinary excellence.
4. Caibai Jewelry Store
Caibai, established in 1956 in Beijing, carries unique historical importance as one of the longest-operating specialty gold and jewelry stores in China. While relatively newer compared to others on this list, its significance lies in its ability to preserve traditional craftsmanship and gold artistry, methods that trace back centuries.
The store flourished during a period of immense transformation in China’s economy and remains a respected retailer for high-quality gold, jade, and other precious materials. Caibai has cemented itself as a cultural bridge between old-world craftsmanship and modern consumer preferences for fine jewelry.
5. Rongbaozhai
Rongbaozhai’s legacy dates back more than three centuries, originally established in 1672 during the Qing Dynasty. Located in Beijing, Rongbaozhai specializes in traditional paintings, calligraphy, and art supplies, earning global acclaim as a hub for preserving Chinese artistry. It also pioneered woodblock watermark printing, a delicate technique used to reproduce intricate artworks.
The store has become a favorite for artists, historians, and collectors who appreciate the craftsmanship and cultural importance of traditional Chinese art. Rongbaozhai remains a beacon of how the arts can endure and flourish amid shifting historical contexts, providing invaluable insights into ancient creative practices.
6. Wu Fang Zhai
Wu Fang Zhai, established in 1921 in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, has gained nationwide recognition for its exquisite zongzi (rice dumplings). Originally a modest street vendor, Wu Fang Zhai eventually expanded into a full-fledged store through unwavering dedication to perfection.
Its crafting methods for zongzi are steeped in tradition, emphasizing quality, balanced flavors, and high-quality local rice. Today, Wu Fang Zhai is not only a household name but a cultural symbol of festive culinary heritage, especially during Dragon Boat Festival celebrations.
7. Dechangxiang Tea House
Dechangxiang, originating in Suzhou over 100 years ago, epitomizes China’s enduring tea culture. This teahouse prides itself on offering an authentic experience stemming from centuries of Chinese tradition. The establishment serves a wide range of teas, including rare varieties treasured both locally and internationally.
Its historical charm lies not only in its offerings but also in its setting, with intricate architectural designs reflecting Suzhou’s classical gardens. Dechangxiang teahouse provides visitors with a harmonious blend of culture, history, and leisure, becoming an unmissable destination for tea aficionados.
8. Ruifuxiang Silk Shop
Ruifuxiang Silk Shop, established in the late 19th century, gained prominence during the Qing Dynasty as a premier outlet for luxury textiles. Its specialty was the crafting and marketing of handmade silk, which represented sophistication and high fashion in ancient China.
The store’s dedication to quality, innovation, and heritage has resulted in its success, even as it faced competition and modernization. Ruifuxiang remains a top destination for silk lovers, offering fabrics that showcase artistry and excellence unparalleled by mass production methods.
9. Kaiming Bookstore
Established in 1926, Kaiming Bookstore holds a storied legacy as one of the oldest bookstores operating in China. Located in Shanghai, it played a vital role in promoting education, culture, and literature, especially during the Republican Era.
The bookstore became an intellectual haven for scholars, writers, and students eager to explore both Chinese classics and modern works. Today, Kaiming stands not only as a literature hub but as a cultural emblem, preserving the importance of bookmaking and reading in China’s evolving identity.
10. Wuyutai Tea House
Wuyutai Tea House, founded in 1887 during the late Qing Dynasty, remains a hallmark of China’s tea culture. Originating in Beijing, the teahouse built its reputation on serving exceptional tea sourced from iconic regions such as Fujian, Yunnan, and Anhui.
Wuyutai maintains its commitment to authenticity by blending traditional tea preparation methods with modern aesthetics, attracting tea enthusiasts from around the world. The store is more than just a business; it serves as a cultural connector linking generations of tea lovers to centuries-old Chinese traditions.
Conclusion
The oldest stores in China are far more than commercial establishments—they are vessels of tradition, history, and culture. Each store discussed above has not only survived the passage of time but thrived by staying true to its roots. From medicine to food, art, tea, and textiles, these businesses showcase the diversity and resilience of Chinese culture through their products and services.
In visiting or learning about these historic stores, one can gain a deeper appreciation of the intertwined evolution of commerce and tradition in China. Their legacies remind us that history isn’t merely confined to books but often persists in every-day spaces, such as these establishments that continue to enrich the lives of modern patrons and preserve ancient wisdom.
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