Culture
Centuries-Old Beijing Pharmacy Blends Traditional Chinese Medicine With Modern Experiences
A historic pharmacy in Beijing is finding new ways to introduce traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to younger generations and international visitors ...
By Wavers Multimedia
Located in the Dashilar area of central Beijing, Tong Ren Tang has operated since 1669 and has become more than a place where people obtain traditional medicines. The pharmacy now offers visitors opportunities to learn about TCM while also exploring products and activities linked to traditional Chinese culture.
The pharmacy continues to provide traditional services, including medical consultations, prescriptions and Chinese herbal medicines. At the same time, its shelves feature nutritional products, food, cosmetics and herbal beverages.
The approach has attracted visitors from both China and overseas. Among them are Melvyn, a young visitor from Brussels who wanted to learn more about TCM during his second trip to China, and Mana from Pakistan, who sought assistance for back pain while visiting the pharmacy.
TCM products meet modern lifestyles
The pharmacy has expanded some of its offerings in response to changing consumer interests.
Its cosmetics section includes products such as anti-freckle cream, while herbal drinks have been developed in combinations that include coffee and traditional medicinal ingredients.
The pharmacy also sells items such as TCM bracelets and sachets, while visitors can explore traditional herbs through interactive activities.
These additions have helped create a shopping and learning experience that goes beyond the traditional pharmacy model.
Technology brings traditional practices closer
A major part of the modernisation effort is the use of technology to explain traditional methods.
On the pharmacy's third floor, a TCM culture exhibition centre allows visitors to learn about traditional medicine-making techniques. A virtual reality display gives visitors an immersive look at how traditional tools were used to prepare pills.
Visitors can also see traditional pill-making equipment and plant specimens. Children have been particularly interested in the activities during the summer holiday period.
The pharmacy has also introduced a digital health cabin where visitors can carry out basic health checks before consulting a doctor.
Elsewhere, children can use materials connected to TCM to make sachets and take part in traditional cultural activities, including painting with pigments made from herbs or minerals.
Connecting tradition with younger generations
Tong Ren Tang's approach reflects a wider effort in China to make traditional Chinese medicine more accessible and engaging through education, technology and cultural tourism.
Similar TCM experience centres have appeared in other parts of the country, including Cangzhou in Hebei province and Chengdu in Sichuan province.
In Beijing, another Tong Ren Tang branch at the Beijing Fun complex has introduced modern health experiences, including exercise routines inspired by baduanjin, a traditional form of qigong.
The centre also uses artificial intelligence-powered machines that combine TCM knowledge with large language models for health consultations.
For Tong Ren Tang, the changes provide a way to preserve traditional practices while presenting them through experiences that appeal to today's visitors.
The pharmacy's long history remains visible in its traditional setting and methods, while its use of digital technology, interactive exhibitions and new products is helping bring TCM closer to a younger and more international audience.