Tea houses are dime a dozen in China. From simple street front locations to fancy modern ones in shopping malls. There are multiple tea varieties being offered and it is not uncommon for a type of tea to run into a couple hundred, or even in the thousands, of dollars for 50 grams.

That being said, it appears that the cafe culture has taken hold, though not as extensive as the tea houses — yet. There are the local independents, and of course, Starbucks has arrived. As expected, the younger generation (though not exclusively) seem to prefer coffee shops.

Speaking of generational contrasts – here’s an Old Generation and New Generation dichotomy. Note the shoes (and feet).

The battle for the ever-powerful consumer is getting tight. How are the independents to survive as it goes head-to-head with internationally recognized name brand conglomerates? Could it be in the name?

The adorable (or maybe not) product names. Is that supposed to be Smile or Smell toilet paper?

And thanks for all the friendly warnings and notices…