A Cha Hai, or fairness cup, is a small serving pitcher used in gongfu tea. When tea steeps in a teapot or gaiwan, the first drops are lighter and the last are stronger — so you pour the whole brew into the Cha Hai to blend it, then serve from there. The name Gong Dao Bei literally means "cup of fairness," because it makes sure everyone's cup tastes the same. It also lets you stop the steep cleanly, so your tea never turns bitter.

Our fairness cups come in a range of materials, each with its own feel.

Glass pitchers show off the colour of the tea and suit any table — some with a wooden handle, some with a built-in strainer, some sturdy enough to brew, boil and serve in one.

Ru Kiln and De Hua white porcelain offer classic, elegant looks and hold heat well, while raw clay pitchers keep the tea warm and rounded. Pick one that matches your teapot and cups, and the size for how many people you usually serve.

Brew your tea in aYixing zisha teapotor agaiwan, pour the whole steep into the Cha Hai, then share it out into your cups. A pitcher with a built-in or add-on strainer will also catch any stray leaves as you pour. Rinse with hot water after use and let it air-dry.

What is a Cha Hai used for?

A Cha Hai (fairness cup / gong dao bei) is used to hold and blend your brewed tea before serving, so every cup is even in strength. It also lets you stop the steep cleanly so the tea doesn't over-brew.

What size Cha Hai should I choose?

Match the Cha Hai to your teapot: it should comfortably hold one full brew. Our pitchers range from around 180ml for solo and small brewing up to 350ml for sharing with several people.

Which material is best?

Glass shows the tea's colour and is easy to clean; porcelain and clay hold heat a little better. It comes down to the look you like and matching your other teaware — any of them will pour a fair cup.

Do you ship across Australia?

Yes — every Cha Hai is dispatched from Sydney and ships across Australia. Orders over $100 ship free.