Gong dao bei, which in the tea industry is also known as a “cha hai”, is a small, shallow cup with a handle that is used in Chinese culture to serve beverages at social gatherings. The term “gong dao bei” literally translates to “equalizing cup” or “fairness cup,” and it is used as a way to promote fairness and equality among the guests by allowing each person to have a small amount of the same beverage.
Gong dao bei cups are often made of ceramic or glass, and they can be used to serve a variety of beverages, including tea, coffee, and other beverages.
When it comes to tea, a gong dao bei serves a practical purpose in tea service by ensuring that all cups have the same taste and quality, as it can be used to merge steeps of tea from the teapot. This helps to create a sense of unity and togetherness among the guests, and it is a common tradition at Chinese banquets and other social events.
In addition to serving as a way to promote fairness and equality, the gong dao bei is also used to enhance the overall experience of the gathering by encouraging conversation and interaction among the guests.
