“Why do Chinese people love tea so much? There is an old saying in China about the seven necessities for starting for one’s day, For the record that’s firewood, rice, oil, salt, sauce (usually soy), vinegar and, of course, tea.
This behind-the-scenes tour of one of Singapore’s oldest tea merchants showcases how they blend and roast their tea leaves in the traditional style. Hear interesting stories which go way back to 1925 and their relationship with one of Singapore’s unique delicacies, Bak Kut Teh (Pork Rib Soup).
Be amazed with their effort to catch up with the times, as they constantly innovate with tea. Both young and old can learn to appreciate tea with a tasting session of three different types of premium grade tea leaves – including their innovative champagne tea.
Get a hands-on as you try traditional wrapping of tea leaves which you can take home. Finally, put your tea brewing skills to use with a heritage Nanyang Tea Brewing Combo Set during the tea demonstration session.
We continue our journey to explore street art from our famed homegrown local artist Yip Yew Chong. His colourful, Instagram-worthy and lifelike murals depict life in Singapore in the 70’s & 80’s, from street stalls, to homes, to street opera. Graffiti is illegal in Singapore and artists will need permission from the building owners and the government authority before painting any walls!”
Duration
2.5 hours
Reviews
”It was an enjoyable experience. The Tea Merchant tour was quite a rare opportunity to visit the oldest tea merchant in Singapore and learn about local Nanyang Teas. It was quite interactive and we got to try teas and learn how to wrap the tea leaves as well. For the mural walking tour, the guide, Ben, was really knowledgeable and enthusiastic. He dished out many interesting historical tidbits and also brought us around to see interesting stuff like the last surviving well of Chinatown (which was actually pretty out of the way). He also pointed out many interesting details of the murals which most of us wouldn't have noticed if we just walked by normally on the street, and helped us appreciate quite a bit of Yip Yew Chong's Chinatown murals.
Peggy13th Dec 2020
”Had a wonderful morning learning about the beautiful street art by Yip Yew Chong. Our guide, Ben, was informative and highlighted many little details with stories to help us imagine life in the past. Really enjoyed the visit to the tea merchant and got the chance sample not only traditional brewed tea but champagne tea and iced tea as well. Very creative for a 96 year old shop! The tea set is a perfect souvenir that will allow us to continue to enjoy their tea at home.
Huiting9th Mar 2021