The smoldering humid heat (known as "sauna weather") during summer in the southern regions of China reminds us why liangcha (cooling herbal tea) remains an important part of summer life in Guangzhou.

Liangcha is a popular summer beverage in the city of Guangzhou. [Photo/gzdaily.dayoo.com]

As a staple of Guangzhou, herbal tea shops can be seen on many of the city's streets, and it is even said that "Guangzhou has more herbal tea shops than rice shops".

Herbal teas are beverages made from the infusion or decoction of herbs, spices, or other plant materials in hot water. In Guangzhou, herbal teas are divided into sweet teas and bitter teas. The teas help expel heat and dampness from the body, providing great relief during the hot summer.

Gengtiangong Liangcha is a famous brand in Guangzhou. [Photo/gzdaily.dayoo.com]

One famous type of liangcha is Bansha Liangcha, a bitter black tea produced by famous Guangzhou franchised brand Huang Zhenlong Liangcha. Other famous liangcha shops in Guangzhou include Gengtiangong Liangcha and Linshi Liangcha.

A tin of Huang Zhenlong Liangcha. [Photo/gzdaily.dayoo.com]