Drinking tea is the starting point of understanding one’s character; playing with Jianzhan is the journey of contemplating human nature. Some people give up playing with Jianzhan in less than a month, while others stick with it for years—even decades. Some call it a “waste of time,” yet countless others find it utterly fascinating. So, what exactly is the charm that makes Jianzhan so irresistible?
“Because the Tea Tastes Better!”
First and foremost, Jianzhan is a practical utensil—and its most important role is, of course, for tea tasting. Using a Jianzhan to brew tea brings distinct benefits:
- The tea liquor becomes far softer and smoother on the palate.
- The tea’s aroma is enhanced, allowing subtle notes to shine through more clearly.
- It retains the tea’s temperature for longer, ensuring every sip maintains the optimal flavor.
For tea lovers, this alone is reason enough: Jianzhan doesn’t just hold tea—it elevates the entire tea-drinking experience.
“Because of Jianzhan’s Glorious History!”
Jianzhan’s allure is deeply rooted in its past, especially its golden age during the Song Dynasty. Emperor Huizong of Song (Zhao Ji)—a passionate tea lover and accomplished artist—was obsessed with Jianzhan. He didn’t just compose poems about tea or paint tea-themed art; he also celebrated the culture of tea and tea utensils, stating:
“Let people across the land pursue purity, and savor the joy of leisurely tea drinking. When sipping tea from fine vessels, the experience is as precious as jade and as melodious as gold. Even those of humble status need not feel ashamed to collect tea or compete for the finest tea ware—this is the mark of a prosperous era.”
As an emperor, he even wrote a book on tea (titled The Classic of Tea), cementing Jianzhan’s place in imperial and cultural history. To play with Jianzhan today is to connect with this rich legacy—to hold a piece of history in your hands.
“Because of Its Collectible Value!”
Traditionally, Jianzhan collection fell under the broader category of ceramic collecting. But in recent years, as Jianzhan’s popularity has surged, it has evolved into an independent and respected category of art collection. Each Jianzhan is a work of craft: from its glaze patterns (unique even in the same kiln) to its shape, it carries the artisan’s skill and vision. For collectors, this makes every Jianzhan a treasure worth preserving—not just for its beauty, but for its status as a piece of living craft.
“Because of Its Investment Value!”
Playing with and collecting Jianzhan isn’t just about inheriting and cherishing a craft—it can also be a wise investment. Over time, well-crafted Jianzhan (especially those by renowned artisans or with rare glaze effects) often see their value rise. This not only validates your “eye” for quality—testing your ability to appreciate and judge craftsmanship—but also lets you enjoy tangible rewards. For many, this blend of passion and practicality adds another layer of charm to Jianzhan collecting.
“Because It Cultivates the Mind and Spirit!”
Caring for a Jianzhan is a slow, gradual process—and in that slowness, there’s room for self-reflection. Playing with and admiring Jianzhan brings a sense of calm and tranquility, helping to quiet the desire for fame and fortune. It encourages simplicity: instead of chasing chaos, many enthusiasts prefer to invite fellow tea lovers over, brew a pot of tea, and share their Jianzhan. In these moments, Jianzhan becomes a bridge to connection—and a reminder to slow down and savor the present.
“Because We Simply Love It!”
Sometimes, the most powerful reason is the simplest: love. Falling for tea and playing with Jianzhan often feels like a natural, unforced choice. No matter what life throws your way, just glancing at your Jianzhan can bring a sense of contentment. It sparks connection, too:
- If you see an acquaintance with a Jianzhan, you can’t help but step over, take a closer look, and share your thoughts.
- If you spot a stranger with a Jianzhan, you might feel an urge to strike up a conversation: “Hey, buddy—your Jianzhan is really something special!”
How Jianzhan Changes People
For many enthusiasts, playing with Jianzhan transforms them in small but meaningful ways:
- Their taste evolves—they learn to notice the subtle beauty of glaze patterns and the craftsmanship in every curve.
- Their mindset softens—they become more patient (after all, nurturing a Jianzhan’s glow takes time) and more tolerant.
- They grow more careful—afraid of knocking or dropping their Jianzhan, they handle it with a tenderness that often spills over into other areas of life. Some even joke, “I take better care of my Jianzhan than I do of my own kids!”
Jianzhan also changes how people connect: instead of gathering to drink alcohol, they now meet to brew tea and chat. During festivals, they gift Jianzhan to loved ones—sharing not just a utensil, but a passion. And for many, their hobby gives them energy: they no longer complain of back or leg pain when they spend hours visiting Jianzhan shops in tea markets—their enthusiasm keeps them going.
In the end, the charm of playing with Jianzhan isn’t just about one thing. It’s about the tea that tastes better, the history that feels alive, the calm it brings, and the joy of sharing a passion. It’s about holding something beautiful that gets better with time—much like the people who love it.
