Beijing time-honored brand: Daoxiangcun

Most locals in Beijing will know what you are talking about when you mention Daoxiangcun. As one of the capital's time-honored brands, Daoxiangcun snacks have found their way into the hearts, and stomachs of countless Beijingers.

Daoxiangcun is Beijing's most famous brand of traditional local snacks and cakes. It was first established in 1895, so it comes as no surprise to locals to see a long line of customers queuing outside one of the branch stores.

Customer said, "I never go to other shops to buy snack and cakes for so many years. I always come to Daoxiangcun since my childhood. It has become a habit for me."

As one of the capital's time-honored brands, Daoxiangcun snacks have found their way into the hearts, and stomachs of countless Beijingers.(File photo)

Once inside, customers have over a hundred snacks and cakes to choose from, but the one marked "Eight Treasures of Beijing" is always the hottest seller. It's bright red gift-box and attractive design makes it perfect for offering good wishes when visiting friends during festivals.

Shop Girl, Daoxiangcun Food Stuff Co., said, "This is the "Eight Treasures of Beijing". It includes eight styles of cakes such as candied fritter, and jujube flower shortbread cake."

When Lantern Festival comes, the glutinous rice dumplings called "Tang Yuan" are always available at Daoxiangcun. Tang Yuan's traditional tastes are considered to be Daoxiangcun's star products.

Daoxiangcun is Beijing's most famous brand of traditional local snacks and cakes.

Cook, Daoxiangcun Food Stuff Co., said,"The sticky rice used in making "Tang Yuan" comes from Heilongjiang. The procedure is very complex and requires extreme care."

The fillings of Tang Yuan include black sesame from JiangXi and coconut from Hainan. In Daoxiangcun traditional tools are still used. As a long-established brand, the customers inside the store do not only come from inside the ring roads of the capital.

Customer said, "Older folks like the feeling here; it reminds us of old times."

Daoxiangcun has over 100 branches around Beijing. So if you are in the capital during this holiday season, you might want to stop in one. It's always a safe choice when presenting gifts to friends and family.