u/Critical-Emotion-537

This feels like a silly question, but how do tea houses work?

I've been to a great many cafes in my time, but never a tea house.

I don't know as much about tea as I do about coffee, and I'd like to learn more when I'm in China, so tea houses are on my to-do list.

What happens? Is there a menu with different teas to try, or just the 'house special'? Do they serve cups of tea ready to drink, or are there team leaves in a pot or gaiwan with hot water on the side? If so, will there be a recommended steep time, or do I just figure that out for myself?

Are there customs, or sets of etiquette that I should be aware of?

If it helps, I'm hitting up Beijing - Xi'An - Chongqing - Enshi - Nanjing.

TIA.

Ok, so Australian customs will allow me to bring back 2.25 litres of alcohol, without having to pay tax.

That's 3 standard 750ml bottles.

The question is - what should I bring back from China?

The stuff I can get in any duty-free store around the world is boring; I want something I'll drink (and hopefully share) and remember my trip.

Leaning towards hard spirits, but open to anything; what do you suggest?