Without doubt, the Chinese people are particular about the types of dishes they use. For any type of tea, Chinese tea cups are used along with pots. In addition to playing an important part in tea ceremonies, these cups and pots are also used when preparing tea to serve. No tea ceremony would be complete without traditions, one of those being Chinese tea cups.

As with any type of cup, Chinese tea cups are made in a number of sizes, designs, and colors. In fact, the exact use of the cup would be based on the specific style. Although you could find and purchase any type of tea cup wanted, three in particular are the easiest to find and the most affordable. These cups can be purchased through local specialty shops or from resources where you buy online tea.

The following are just three examples of Chinese tea cups, giving you a better understanding of what they are.

Tea Cups made from Cast Iron

Tea Cups made from Cast Iron – One of the long traditions of Chinese tea cups is the material used, as in the case of black cast iron. Since many of the older teapots were also made of cast iron, teacups were designed to match.

These cups offer a traditional look, as well as purpose and because of the material, they are strong, non-breakable, and they keep tea hot. Chinese tea cups made from cast iron have a special enamel coating, which keeps the iron from rusting. You will find these cups in numerous sizes and colors no matter your personal preference.

Chinese Tea Cups used for Filtering

Another option is the filtering cup, which is used not just to hold the beverage for drinking but also to filter loose green tea, loose black tea, or whatever type of tea you like most. On the inside of the cup is a unique built-in filter where the tea is placed to infuse in the water.

Usually, these cups are made from clay, porcelain, or ceramic, and they come in different styles and colors. A few options include the following:

Yixing Clay Filter Tea Cup – Made in the Chinese province of Jiangsu, which sits approximately 120 miles to the northwest of Shanghai, this cup design has been used for hundreds of years. Initially, these Chinese tea cups were made from purple clay, which actually helps hold the flavor and aroma of the tea better. In addition, clay tea cups can handle high temperatures and heat is held in but the outside remains cool to the touch.
Poet Filtering Tea Cup – In this case, the cup is made from porcelain. With the filtering system on the inside, it works amazing well with loose tea. The cup has a lid so as the tea leaves seep, the lid keeps the flavors inside until ready to enjoy. Unlike other types of Chinese tea cups, this particular style displays an image or photo of a poet from the Tang Dynasty.
Specialty Chinese Tea Cups

A number of specialty cups are also available, some that include:

Four Season Character Tea Cup – If you prefer something exquisite, then you might consider a Chinese tea cup such as this. Made from beautiful porcelain and designed with the built-in filter and lid, the design on the outside is a four-season calligraphy character.
Small Peony Flower Gaiwan – These Chinese tea cups are also made of porcelain and known as the Small Peony Flower Gaiwan. On the outside of the cup is a design of the peony flower, which originated from the Ming Dynasty although it did not reach a peak of popularity until the Qing Dynasty. The Chinese people love this particular design with it being the perfect size to brew loose tea but small enough to hold and drink from comfortably.