Traditional Chinese Hot Water Bottle: Tang Po Zi 汤婆子

Did you know how ancient Chinese people kept warm?

When we think about heating in ancient times, we often picture fire pits or wearing thick layers of clothing. But there was another clever solution…

Tang Po Zi (汤婆子 ; tāng pó zǐ)

This charming little device was a portable and compact way to stay warm! It’s a round, flat kettle made of copper, tin, or ceramic, designed to hold hot water and keep you cozy.

How Does It Work?

The Tang Po Zi has an opening at the top with a screw cap, where hot water is poured in. The kettle’s design, often in a pumpkin shape, allows it to fit snugly in your arms, making it perfect for those cold nights.

Once filled with hot water, you could hug the Tang Po Zi close to you and drift off to sleep in warmth.

Fun Fact: The Name!

“Tang 汤” means boiling water in ancient Chinese, and “Po Zi 婆子” humorously refers to its function of accompanying people to sleep.

Though ancient, the Tang Po Zi remains a testament to human ingenuity in finding warmth and comfort, even before modern heating methods!