Our Heritage
It began in 1857 with a small bakery. What started as a modest enterprise grew into Tsai Tong-Yuan – a name synonymous with integrity and endurance in Jiangxi's merchant circles, adapting through war, revolution, and global change.
1857-1880s
Founded as a small bakery in Sanjiangkou, with first business transactions recorded in 1863 ledgers. Expanded into a regional trading company dealing in tea, rice, and artisanal goods.
1900-1920
Family adapted to the end of imperial examination system in 1906. By 1911, became a regional trade powerhouse with international connections, reaching peak pre-war operations by 1920.
1937-1945
Business persevered through Japanese invasion, with properties bombed in 1939. The family relocated to avoid occupation in 1942, and began post-war rebuilding efforts in 1945.
1949-1956
Business operations ceased under new economic system after 1949. The family pivoted to focus on education and scholarship throughout the 1950s, with official end of private business operations in 1956.
1980s-Present
Family members began academic careers abroad in the 1980s. In the 2010s, a new generation revived the trading business globally, establishing modern global trading operations in the 2020s.
"Wealth feeds knowledge, knowledge guides wealth"
The Tsai family motto that has guided generations
Our Journey
Humble Beginnings
It began in 1857 with a single wood-fired oven beside the Gan River. Guided by the family motto "Wealth feeds knowledge, knowledge guides wealth," each generation balanced commerce with scholarship, building a thriving regional trade business while investing deeply in education.
The Pivot to Knowledge
When China's economic landscape transformed in the mid-20th century, the family channeled their merchant ingenuity into academia. For decades, they produced scholars, researchers, scientists, econimists, professors and innovators from the top institutions across continents.
The Cultural Renaissance
Today, a new generation has reignited the family's heritage with a bold vision. Combining centuries-old values with modern global networks, they've expanded Tsai Tong-Yuan's cultural influence through educational initiatives and cultural exchange programs.
"First we traded goods. Then we traded ideas. Now we bridge worlds."
Our Values
For over 160 years, the Tsai Tong-Yuan name has represented core principles that have guided generations.
Wisdom
The wisdom to evolve while preserving core values, adapting to changing times while honoring our heritage.
Integrity
A commitment to honesty and ethical conduct in all endeavors, building trust that spans generations.
Courage
The courage to reinvent across generations, facing challenges with resilience and determination.
About Us
For over 160 years, the Tsai Tong-Yuan name has represented the wisdom to evolve while preserving core values, the belief that commerce and knowledge elevate each other, and the courage to reinvent across generations.
Our Story Unfolds
Today, Tsai Tong-Yuan stands at the intersection of heritage and progress, transforming centuries of mercantile wisdom into meaningful global connections. We channel our legacy into purposeful action - fostering cross-cultural exchange through ethical trade partnerships that honor traditional craftsmanship while meeting contemporary needs.
Our work extends beyond commerce as we actively nurture minds through educational initiatives, believing that access to knowledge remains the most enduring form of prosperity. We serve as cultural ambassadors, carefully curating and sharing authentic Oriental traditions with global audiences in ways that resonate with modern sensibilities.
At heart, we champion a philosophy of balanced living - rediscovering and reimagining time-honored Asian wellness practices for today's world. From sourcing heirloom ingredients to supporting sustainable production methods, every aspect of our work reflects a commitment to thoughtful, intentional living.
This is the modern embodiment of our founding principle: that true value lies not just in what we trade, but in what we cultivate - relationships, understanding, and wellbeing across borders and generations.
What People Say
"Tsai Tong-Yuan represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Their commitment to cultural preservation while embracing the future is truly inspiring."— Cultural Heritage Review