Nestled within the white columns of the historic monument, Flagstaff House, lies a quaint museum dedicated to showcasing ceramic tea ware and ancient antique ceramics. In the past, tea enthusiasts were seen as the 'academic' and 'cultural elites' of society. The art of tea-drinking symbolized personal morality, education, social principles, and status, leading to the intricate production of tea ware.
One exceptional collection at the museum features the Twelve Month Cups in Wucai Enamels (五彩十二花神杯) from the Kangxi (康熙) period of the Qing Dynasty (清朝). This set comprises twelve eggshell porcelain cups, each adorned with a flower or plant representing a specific month and accompanied by a poem on the reverse. Complete sets of these month cups are incredibly rare, making their presence in the museum a remarkable treasure.
After exploring the diverse tea types and their cultural significance, visitors can further immerse themselves in the experience by visiting the LockCha Tea Room (樂茶軒). This beautifully decorated tea room offers a selection of nearly 50 Chinese teas, accompanied by vegetarian dim sum dishes. While the prices may be somewhat steep, the experience is well worth the cost. If visiting in a group, consider sampling a variety of teas to appreciate their distinct flavors. Each tea has an optimal brewing time, ranging from 10 seconds to 2 minutes. Consult the staff for guidance on achieving the best taste. As a final note, after sipping your first cup, inhale the captivating aroma from the bottom of the cup to fully appreciate the tea's essence.