China is a land of culinary wonders, and its beverages are no exception. From ancient teas to modern cocktails, the diversity of drinks available across the country is astounding.
Whether you’re a tea aficionado, a coffee lover, or an adventurous spirit looking to try something new, China has a drink for you. Here’s a guide to the 25 best drinks in China that you simply must try.
Table of Contents
The 25 Best Drinks in China
Firstly these are in no particular order (see entree 1), but they are all drinks I have tried during my 18+ years in China.
Alas in 2006 I did not know I would become The Street Food Guy, so some photos are not mine as I have not documented every single one of the drinks in China I have tried over the years.
1. Baijiu (Báijiǔ)
Baijiu, the fiery Chinese spirit, tops the list. Distilled from grains like sorghum, it’s known for its strong kick and is a staple at Chinese celebrations. Moutai and Wuliangye are two of the most famous brands.
Honestly I hate the stuff, even the new flavored variety, but you cannot deny it is the most important of all the drinks in China as of 2024!
2. Tsingtao Beer
Originating from Qingdao, Tsingtao Beer is China’s most internationally recognized beer. Its crisp, clean taste makes it perfect for hot summer days.
Overrated? Yes, decent enough? Sure. One of the most important drinks in China? Most certainly.
3. Snow Beer (Xuě Pi)
The best-selling beer in the world, Snow Beer is light and refreshing. It’s a go-to for many locals and pairs well with a variety of Chinese dishes. Crazily this is far from one of the best drinks in China, but is the biggest selling of all drinks in China.
You can read about Snow Beer here.
4. Huangjiu (Huángjiǔ)
Huangjiu, or yellow wine, is of the rice family of the drinks in China. With a sweet and umami flavor, it’s typically enjoyed warm and is a great accompaniment to hearty meals.
5. Mijiu (Mǐjiǔ)
Similar to Japanese sake, Mijiu is a type of rice wine that can be enjoyed either hot or cold. It has a sweet, mild taste that’s perfect for both drinking and cooking.
6. Pear Juice (Lízhī Zhī)
Pear juice is a sweet and refreshing drink, often enjoyed chilled. It’s especially popular in the summer and is believed to have cooling properties.
7. Wanglaoji (Wáng Lǎojí)
This herbal tea is famed for its cooling properties. Made from a blend of herbs, it’s a staple drink for those looking to balance their body’s heat.
8. Suanmeitang (Suānméitāng)
Suanmeitang is a traditional sour plum drink. Its sweet and sour taste makes it incredibly refreshing, especially during the hot summer months. My favorite of all the soft drinks in China and one I regularly drink.
One of my top ten food or drinks in Xian
9. Soy Milk (Dòujiāng)
Soy milk is a popular breakfast drink in China. Often enjoyed with youtiao (fried dough sticks), it’s a nutritious and slightly sweet beverage.
10. Bubble Tea (Zhēnzhū Nǎichá)
Bubble tea, with its chewy tapioca pearls and sweet milk tea, originated in Taiwan but is now a sensation across China. It comes in various flavors and styles.
11. Coconut Milk (Yēzhī Nǎi)
Popular in tropical regions like Hainan, coconut milk is creamy and sweet, perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.Keep in mind Chinese coconut milk is like milk, less like coconut.
12. Jiuniang (Jiǔniàng)
A sweet, mildly alcoholic drink made from fermented glutinous rice, Jiuniang is often enjoyed as a dessert beverage due to its unique texture and flavor.
13. Osmanthus Wine (Guìhuā Jiǔ)
Flavored with osmanthus flowers, this sweet and aromatic wine is a delight for the senses. It’s a must-try for those looking for something unique.
14. Chinese Red Wine
The Chinese wine industry is booming, with regions like Ningxia producing high-quality red wines. These wines are gaining international recognition for their rich flavors.
Supposedly will take over the wine world one day. Today alas is not that day.
15. Hawthorn Juice (Shānzhā Zhī)
Hawthorn juice, made from the tart and sweet hawthorn berries, is not only delicious but also believed to aid digestion.
16. Plum Wine (Méihuā Jiǔ)
Plum wine is a sweet alcoholic beverage made from plums. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and sour, making it a popular choice for a light drink. I love the rare times I find this and find it very different to other drinks in China.
17. Lychee Wine (Lìzhī Jiǔ)
Made from the fragrant lychee fruit, lychee wine is sweet and aromatic, offering a unique drinking experience.Overall better than it sounds.
18. Chinese Cola (Zhōngguó Kělè)
Chinese cola brands like Beibingyang offer a different twist on the classic cola flavor. With hints of herbal ingredients, it’s a refreshing alternative to Western sodas. And thus they not only enter #ColaQuest, but score greater than their North Korean cousin.
19. Chrysanthemum Tea (Júhuā Chá)
This floral tea is made from dried chrysanthemum flowers and is light and refreshing. It’s often enjoyed for its cooling properties and ability to soothe the eyes.
20. Lotus Seed Drink (Liánzǐ Yǐnliào)
Lotus seed drink is a sweet and nutritious beverage made from lotus seeds. It’s often enjoyed for its health benefits and unique flavor.
21. Aloe Vera Drink (Lúhuì Yǐnliào)
Aloe vera drinks, often mixed with honey and lemon, are popular for their refreshing taste and health benefits.A popular soft-drink now, with the heart benefit outweighing the sugar (to come st least).
22. Red Bean Soup (Hóngdòu Tāng)
While more of a dessert than a drink, red bean soup is a sweet and satisfying way to end a meal. It can be enjoyed hot or cold. I quite literally had this today and I confirm it is still very gross.
To read about Bian Bian Mian click here
23. Chinese Herbal Jelly Drink (Liángfěn Yǐnliào)
This unique drink combines herbal jelly with a sweet syrup, offering a refreshing and slightly chewy beverage that’s perfect for cooling down.
24. Milk Tea (Nǎichá)
Different from bubble tea, milk tea in China often combines strong black tea with creamy milk and sugar. It’s a comforting and popular drink, especially in the cooler months.
For some reason this is now a global sensation. I personally though refuse to que for it no matter how good it is supposed to be. This is partly because I was drinking this shit before many of you were in diapers.
25. Watermelon Juice (Xīguā Zhī)
Watermelon juice is a summer favorite, offering a sweet and hydrating option to beat the heat. Freshly pressed, it’s a must-try when in season.
Conclusions on the 25 Best Drinks in China
Exploring the best drinks in China offers a delightful journey through the country’s rich and diverse beverage culture. From traditional teas to modern cocktails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, next time you find yourself in China, make sure to sip your way through this list and experience the vibrant flavors firsthand.
You can try the best drinks in China on one of the YPT China Tours!